Between Heaven and Earth

We are between heaven and earth. We are a mix of both aspects.

The dense physical, heavy matter of our body sinks down towards the earth. This occurs naturally as we relax. First we must align the body to allow gravity to pass centrally through from the top of the head to the centre of the feet then we can relate to the heavenly ch'i. This is the yang ch'i and it moves upwards when we raise the Shen.

How do we raise the Shen?

The Shen is an aspect of the mind. When we are interested and inspired there is a kind of excitment to the mind. So the Shen is similar to excitement yet not quite. When we have a sense of awe in the face of a natural wonder, or feel compassion for our friend, or can manifest creativity, these are all moments of increased Shen.

How do we cultivate Shen?

When I wake in the morning I remind myself that I am alive to the wonder of life on this planet. It is not something to take for granted. It is truely marvelous. Then after stretching a little, I try to get the feeling of ch'i, even if it is only slight. I reflect on the day ahead and inspire myself to do something useful and extend out to others as much as possible.

The feeling of aliveness and interest in connecting with one's experience is a way of cultivating the Shen. If possible train yourself to stay connected with the way of this. The happiness that comes from this simple practice will increase.

Dr. Chi's advice was to 'forget self and become one with the tao.'