Qi Refinement and Destiny Spiritual Cultivation
Destiny spiritual cultivation often arises from being compelled by spiritual forces, leading individuals to embark on their practice under various circumstances (however, I have encountered a few senior brothers and sisters who naturally wish to pursue the path of cultivation and Taoism in this life, completely free from the phenomenon of spiritual compulsion).
Through detailed discussions with them, it was discovered that they share a common trait: these practitioners possess very good temperament, character, and personality. Their concepts, thoughts, analytical skills, and judgment are all very refined. I believe this is a primary reason why their path of cultivation is smoother compared to others! “Moreover, they are all continuously making progress!”
Some heavenly soldiers with deeper foundations begin their cultivation when the influence of spiritual compulsion is not severe. Initially, they may not have much experience but can start studying Buddhist and Taoist classics to gain wisdom from ancient sages as references for their practice. Sometimes utilizing various qi refining techniques can also enhance the effectiveness of destiny spiritual cultivation. Therefore, in daily activities such as standing, sitting, or lying down, besides keeping the upper body straight and relaxed to improve energy absorption efficiency, one can engage in various practices outside of formal training.
Movement Practice: The principle is to keep the upper body straight and relaxed while performing various forms of martial arts or dance with hands and feet. The widely practiced Tai Chi Chuan is an excellent form of movement practice. In particular, the “Cloud Hands” in Tai Chi serves as a fundamental exercise for movement practice; each fixed-step practice can last from three to fifty minutes. Especially right after waking up when one has not fully regained consciousness, practicing for twenty to thirty minutes not only replenishes sleep but also helps clear out waste from the rectum—making it an ideal internal cleansing activity.
Standing Practice: Generally refers to standing postures. One can face east with feet shoulder-width apart and knees slightly bent. Both hands should be held forward in an embracing position slightly below shoulder level with thumbs interlocked. The upper body should remain straight and relaxed while eyes are gently closed and breathing is slow and deep. Gradually increase practice time to over thirty minutes; during practice, the body will warm up and sweat will occur; leg discomfort will transform into vibrations until one feels overall comfort.
Sitting Practice: Sitting practice usually adopts a cross-legged posture; however, some individuals may be unable to sit cross-legged due to physical conditions or injuries. In such cases, one can sit on a chair that allows legs to form right angles while keeping the upper body straight and relaxed with hands resting on thighs—other aspects remain similar to cross-legged sitting.
Lying Practice: According to legend about Chen Xiyi from the Song Dynasty who practiced breath control and fasting for forty years using lying techniques—most people tend to fall asleep during lying practice which makes it less commonly used. However, this lying method can also assist with falling asleep; I present it here for reference: use a pillow so that when lying on your right side your head aligns straight with your body; place your right hand in front at a ninety-degree angle with palm facing up while your left hand rests gently on your left waist; bend your right leg while extending your left leg over it; breathe slowly and deeply.
Whether practicing qigong or qi refinement techniques—these focused mental practices help improve bodily functions but cannot completely eliminate karmic influences nor achieve perfect health states; thus there is an even greater need for cultivating virtue through movement practices to resolve accumulated karmic obstacles! Destiny spiritual cultivation varies according to individual destinies and karmic arrangements which may lead practitioners away from genuine methods aligned with their destinies instead hindering their progress in destiny spiritual cultivation.
The path of spiritual cultivation is fraught with challenges,
Resolving accumulated karmic obstacles spiritually,
May this life be filled with abundant virtue,
Together we ascend upon the golden lotus of enlightenment,
Promoting Daoist teachings amidst confusion,
Elevating spirituality shines brightly like compassionate guidance.
by – Phoenix Mountain Cihuang Palace