INTRODUCTION
THE BASIC PRINCIPLE of this training manual is that we are an energy field of mind and body intimately connected to all things and full of infinite light and compassion. The tool that I am presenting to experience realize this full potential is the self-healing art of meditative qigong. The form of qigong* [qigong consists of two concepts qi* and gong*] that is the subject of this manual is called Compassionate Buddhä Qigong. This form could serve as your whole qigong routine or supplement other qigong techniques. And as I’ve already stated, Compassionate Buddhä Qigong is a meditation-based practice of qigong. It essentially consists of both moving and stationary postures, and a very simple movement of the arms and hands. The form has many possibilities for healing meditations which make use of visualizations, mantras, and a strong belief in the healing powers of the mind.
The purpose of this training manual is to directly and immediately get you involved in doing qigong. I have not included any lengthy information on the history or philosophy of qigong. Others have done that for you, and far better than I could ever do. Refer to my recommended list of books for that information.
The current popularity of qigong is attracting many people to it for its physical benefits. This is a very worthwhile reason for turning to qigong. But once the beginner makes some progress with healing qigong, it may be time to go deeper into the mysteries of qigong-the compassionate nature of the energies of the universe. My hope is that the reader will take up the practice of qigong as a way of life. The healing meditations in this training manual are a way to get started in this process of becoming attuned to the energies of the universe.
I have kept the instructions to a minimum. I want the practitioner to not worry about technique, but to jump right in and start moving. If the healing meditations appear too complicated, don’t fret. Do what you can, where you are. The healing meditations are just a guideline. Actually, I want the practitioner to use my meditations as a starting place, and then make up your own. I welcome readers to send me your healing meditations, for inclusion in future editions. Use the blank pages at the end of this manual for your own healing meditations. The key to this practice is to be flexible in using Compassionate Buddhaä Qigong for your own needs.
The appendix contains quotations from a number of resources that have been some of my influences. I’ve included them because they provide a theoretical background to the contents of this manual. It would be a good idea to read them before you begin practicing the form. This way you’ll have a deeper appreciation for what I mean in the healing meditations.
The appendix also includes a brief encounter that a group of westerners recently had with H.H. the Dalai Lama. It is reproduced exactly as I received it. Use it independently of qigong or adapt it to the basic Compassionate Buddhaä Qigong technique.
There are a couple of final points I want to make in this introduction. First, even though I classify Compassionate Buddhaä Qigong as a meditative style of qigong, it also has benefits for physical and emotional healing. Just try it and you’ll see what I mean.
The other point has to do with the heart of my teachings. It is simply this:
1. The Essence lies not in technique or tools but in the deep Heart To Heart Transmission
of healing compassion and energy.
2. Touch Emptiness and out of the Compassion of Emptiness, you Touch Healing.
These two statements summarize my belief in the Universal source of healing. The closer we come in contact with that source, the richer our lives become. The heart to heart transmission of healing energies and compassion is none other than the flow and rhythm of the Universal Life Force through our bodies, hearts and minds. Touching the roots of this energy and compassion we enter the interconnectedness of all beings, and live in the Universal Light.
And so, what is the final goal of Compassionate Buddhä Qigong? Don’t limit yourself. Open yourself to the full potential of what you can be. Reach for your highest expectations. Believe that we are a body of infinite energy, infinite compassion, infinite light.
