Nikolai .:
I'll have a read of that - it's just that I'm under the impression that you're meant to be investigating them on a non-intellectual level somehow. So not consciously trying to find the 3 characteristics but somehow allowing your Satipanya to see them? Is that a misunderstanding? =D
Sam S:
The martial arts are not about fighting an invisible enemy, or, if you're sparring with a partner, a real one. For students who incorporate martial arts training into their Ch'an practice, the purpose is ultimately realising the truth of no-enemy. First of all, the physicality and movement of martial arts training is, traditionally, a yogic method for the development and circulation of energy throughout the body, which is crucial for powerful samadhi. Secondly, in coming to master the martial arts we progressively lose our fear of others who we might perceive as "enemies". While you might be under the impression that these practices encourage a violent attitude, most of our violent thoughts are actually sourced in our fear of others. Developing self-mastery and confidence in both the physical and the mental, we escape our weak-minded fears and adopt the authentic compassion that is our birthright. Furthermore, we lose that whole complex of fantasizing or romanticising violence. We discover the truth of violence by embodying it as a practice towards the destruction of our own delusions.
These are just some of the positive facets that have made training in the martial arts a crucial component of certain schools in Ch'an/Zen.
Thank you! This is exactly the kind of answer I was looking for =)) I know it's very silly of me, but it makes it alot easier for me to commit to a practice if I glorify its concepts somehow in my head =))
And also, everything you just said is definitely a big issue for me. I've managed to condition myself to see much phenomena as traumatising to an extent where it's becoming a mini-avoidant-personality-disorder, so I'll definitely join the london shaolin temple now =))
fivebells .:
Insight meditation cultivates a connection to
upekkha. Good martial arts practice cultivates a connection to
mudita. On its own, it's a much more difficult route, but it's a nice complement. If it doesn't appeal to you, though, no need.
Some talks on this:
Power and PresenceThe Warrior's Solution (Sound quality is terrible.)
Oh but if it becomes a habit it will appeal. It's just that it isn't one at the moment =))
Thanks for the links - fascinating stuff =))