-by Chuck Kasmire

I wanted to get some stuff up here. Still fleshing things out....

Context: My take on what is going on here with these practices.

These practices are all about process as opposed to progress. This is a different orientation than a map based system. The process is simple: cultivate the flow of energy throughout the body then deepen it, deepen it, deepen it. The very sense of energy as it flows through the body becomes a source of stillness and insight. None of the practices I list here will get you in trouble – practice them as much as you like.

Aspiration

Consider why you are following or investigating these practices. What do you want out of this? Results will tend to follow your aspiration. For myself, I wanted to know the truth. I found these practices helpful.

There are buckets of energy practices. My focus here is on a few practices that I learned and used in my own journey. I also include links to sites and teachers that include a focus on energetic approaches.

Getting a feel for energy

: If you are just starting out, don't give up if you don't feel anything right away. This takes practice. It took me several weeks of practice (at least an hour a day) with a good teacher before I could start sensing this stuff. If you don't feel anything while doing these practices don't worry – it takes time. The sensations are subtle at first. Your initial contact with energy – it may seem warm, cold, fuzzy, tingly, etc. varies with different people. How ever it presents itself – just go with that. Sensitivity comes with practice.

General Practices to get started with:

• Robert Bruce's New Energy Ways covers lots of basic practices for becoming sensitive to energy.

• Reggie Ray has a number of really good guided energy practices on his Dharma Ocean site. You will also find many good talks to help provide some context for what is going on.

• Body Through Art This is a nice practice. There are two parts – practice one after the other or on alternate days as you prefer. They complement each other nicely.

• Standing at Stake

• Microcosmic Orbit – a gentle approach. This is a very useful technique for opening up the Du and Ren meridians. The function of this practice is to open up each center. Once all the centers are open, connecting them together is pretty simple.