Internal Energy Secrets
Transcript of Internal Energy Secrets
-
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
1/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
1
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
2/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
2
Basic Internal EnergyDevelopment- The Truth Beyond
The Hype
By Sifu Trey Crake
5th Generation Lung Shou Pai Kung Fu
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
3/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
3
Basic Internal EnergyDevelopment- The Truth Beyond
The Hype
Published in the United States by:
Dragon Claw Publications, Inc
49 Napa Valley Circle, Madison, MS 39110 USA
Tel: (601) 856-5051
Email: [email protected]
Disclaimer:
The author and publisher of this material are not responsible in any manner whatsoever for anyinjury that may occur through following the instructions in this material. The activities, physical,mental and otherwise, described herein are for informational purposes only.
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved.Reproduction in any form is prohibited.
-
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
4/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
4
Preface
After many years of being involved in Kung Fu training, I see so many
people involved in exercises and arts which are meant to be so much more
than just the physical movements.
I believe they are expecting to receive more, or have been misled into
believing that what they are practicing is the full experience.
And, although there are many resources available on the subjects of tai chi,chi kung, and other internal martial arts, people are still left confused and
searching.
It is my goal in this, my first official publication on internal martial arts, to
give the seeker a simple, effective, step-by-step system to cut through the
hype and confusion. And, to show anyone who is serious about this aspect of
training, just how to accomplish this skill.
Albert Einstein once said,
Make everything as simple as possible, but not simpler.
This is what I offer you.
Thank you for investing in this manual. I hope you find this information as
rewarding as I have. I believe you are in for a treat.
Tao Te Ching
Sifu Trey Crake
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
5/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
5
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section One Page
Congratulations! 8
The Big Question 9
The Beginning Of The Journey 9
Section Two
What Is This Chi Thing? 10
Why Do We Want It? 11
Patience, Patience, Patience 12
Section Three
For Best Results 13
Environment 13
Light vs Dark 13
Dress 13
Section Four
Other Considerations 14
Dont Practice On A Full Stomach 14
Practice When You Are In A Good Mood 14
Relax Your Body 15
Dont Meditate When You Are Sleepy 15
When To Practice 15
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
6/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
6
How Often And For How Long 16
Sit, Stand, Or Lie Down? 16
Another Option 19
Addi tional Tips 19Training?, Practice?, Work?, What Is It? 20
Section Five
The Objective 21
Lets Get Started 21
The Focal Point 21
Develop No Mind 22Your Breath Is Not Just A Breath 22
Section Six
Insider Secret #1 Use Your Breath As A Tool 23
Exercise 24
The Struggle 25
Common Tip 25
Try This Exercise 26Insider Secret #2 Improved Counting Method 26
Tip 27
Section Eight
Looking For A Feeling 27
Insider Secret #3 Advanced Breathing Method 28Insider Secret #4 Be Aware Of Not Center 29
Insider Secret #5 Visualizations Are Key 29
Advanced Exercise #1 The Balloon Visualization 30
Advanced Tip In Locating Your Center 31
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
7/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
7
Sensations 32
Advanced Exercise #2 The Bellows Visualizat ion 32
Section NineWhat To Expect 34
Early Signs 34
Good Days And Bad Days 35
Insider Tip 35
Persistence 35
Challenge 36
Section Ten
Final Thoughts 37
Whats Next 37
Section Eleven
About The Author 38
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
8/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
8
Section One
Congratulations!
You have now taken an important step. A step that could begin a journeydown a road that few ever take. A journey that can lead to some wondrous
destinations. This journey is an adventure- an inner adventure that is a fun,
entertaining, and amazing.
You may be a martial artist who has heard or read about this amazing
mysterious energy known as chi or ki that is supposed to manifest itself as
one attains high levels of martial skill.
Or, you may be a practitioner of tai chi, chi kung, or another internal art. You
may be practicing an art or exercise where the word chi or internal
energy is repeatedly spoken about. Yet, it remains a mystery.
Perhaps youve even read articles or books where the topic was this force.
They speak in terms of feeling the chi or moving the energy. But, either
they assume you already know how to initially develop this energy, or, they
dont explain it at all- leaving you with more questions than answers.
Other sources may use mystical phrases and terms that leave you wandering
what this is all about.
You are sure this must be real. It must exist. Too many people speak and
write of it.
Yet, you still have not seen or experienced a clear practicalexplanation as to how to learn this skill.
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
9/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
9
The Big Question
You are left with the BIG question, But, How?
How do you learn this skill? How do you get started?
What you need is a step-by-step instruction guide. You need a guide that will
show you how to get started. You need a guide that will lay out in plain,
simple English, just how to accomplish this.
How would you like to know- really know, from first hand experience, what
this is all about?
Thats exactly what this manual will do for you. No hype. No mysterious
mumbo jumbo. Just the facts. And, the HOW. Exactly HOW.
The Beginning of the Journey
What you are going to learn in this book, are the basics. This is the place tostart. The basics could be compared to a key. This key, once attained, will
open the door to a lifetime journey of self-discovery; if you choose to take it
farther.
This is the vital step. This is the missing link, if you will.
Real results in chi development start here. Without this basic process,
internal energy will remain aloof and frustrating.
Once you learn and practice the information here, you will have the
foundation to apply this to many other aspects of internal training. Whether
you are a martial artist, tai chi or chi kung practitioner, your training will
reach new levels of discovery and appreciation.
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
10/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
10
You will obtain REAL results. Undeniable results. You will have a new
passion for your training. Because, each training experience will be another
inner adventure.
You could compare this journey to a popular adventure video game. Where,
with each practice, you make new discoveries. Where persistence and
patience open new doors to reveal higher levels of experience, and deeper
levels of understanding.
Section Two
What is this Chi Thing?
You may still be wandering. Just what is chi? It must be something. It must
be explainable, if it exists. It must be measurable, quantifiable.
Because Chi is indeed a mysterious concept, there are many definitions. In
fact, the Chinese dictionary has over 80 definitions for the word.
The best way to define it, is life force. It is the energy that flows throughall living things that perpetuates their existence.
We all have it.
In many individuals, the flow of the life force becomes blocked or restricted
causing various mental, emotional and physical ailments.
As you learn to increase the amount of chi stored and circulated in your
body, there are many wonderful benefits that the average person will never
experience to the level that you will.
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
11/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
11
Why do we want it?
Chi is your life force. It is what makes you alive. Without it you would
die. With it you survive.
By developing it, you gain many benefits.
Lower blood pressure
Relieves stress
Builds Up Resistance To Illness & Injury
Promotes deeper relaxation
Clears negative emotions
Better Sleep Enhanced Vitality
Promotes youthfulness & longevity
Strengthens circulation of blood and oxygen
Improves Health
Improves Concentration & Intuitive Abilities
Produces Profound Relaxation & Inner Peace
Stimulates the Bodys Regenerative Powers
Plus, it really is a lot of fun!
Patience, Patience, Patience
Let me begin by saying that this process takes time.
This is the main reason why so many people quit their training. It is the
reason so few people have actually attained this skill. It takes commitmentand perseverance. In the beginning the results are slow- mostly non-existent.
In the beginning, the process can be quite boring.
But, Please understand. This is real! The results are real. Follow this manual
and you will achieve the results you are looking for.
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
12/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
12
One of the main challenges is that you will typically face, is that you will
feel nothing for quite some time. This can be frustrating.
To begin to obtain tangible results could take two to four months depending
on the time and attention spent. The gradual process has begun and will
continue as long as you keep up the training.
The lack of quick results is the main reason people give up. It is the reason
few can speak of this from direct experience.
Dont be one of these!
Become one of the few for whom this ability is real.
Accept this challenge. I can assure you, it is wellworthit! It is truly
amazing!
Note:The effects of your practice are cumulative.
Although, for some time, no effects, sensations, etc. will be felt, things are
happening internally. Each days training will build upon the next.
It becomes like an invisible snowball, where one practice builds on the
previous practice.
Try, if at all possible, not to miss a training session. Or, if you must skip, try
to double up your time spent on the next day.
A day without practice is a step backward. You dont just pick up where you
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
13/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
13
left off on the previous day. You have lost some progress from the day
before. You need to catch back up.
Section Three
For Best Resul ts
Environment
Find a quiet place inside to meditate (Practicing outdoors leads to many
distractions- lights, breezes, noises, etc.). Find a place where noises will not
distract you, or interrupt your practice. If a ringing phone might be a
concern, turn it off.
Dont sit in front of a vent or draft that may blow directly on you during
practice.
Light vs Dark
Bright lights can be distracting. Making it difficult to focus inside. Pitch
black darkness can cause one to become drowsy. You may find that
somewhere in between works best for you.
The main concern here is to prevent any distractions that could interrupt you
during your time of practice.
Dress
You need to be comfortable.
You will be sitting still for some length of time. So, you dont want to feel
constrained or irritated by any clothing that restricts your neck, waist,
ankles, etc.
No shoes.
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
14/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
14
Shoes can bind your feet. Wearing socks is usually preferable to being
barefoot.
Loose, comfortable, soft, cotton clothing works best. Wear something that
you will not notice at all. Yet clothing is preferable to bare skin, where thesurface can be susceptible to a breeze or change in temperature. This could
lead to your attention moving to the outside of your body.
Section Four
Other Considerations
Dont practice on a full stomach.
As you will see, your full attention must be on the work at hand. A full
stomach that is in the vicinity of the area we will be focused on will be felt
and sensed as a distraction.
Practice when you are in a good mood.
It is important for best results that you are not angry, sad, stressed, etc. when
training.
If you have been under emotional strain, postpone your training for another
time that day. Or, take time to relax by doing some deep, abdominal
breathing to clear your mind and prepare mentally and emotionally for your
practice.
Your mind should reflect feelings of happiness, joy, love, and contentment
while practicing. You want to interact with you internal body with selfacceptance and appreciation for who and what you are. It is even a good idea
to maintain a slight smile as you practice. This will actually have an effect
on how your body accepts and responds to your practice.
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
15/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
15
Relax your body
Again, you should not only be calm mentally, you should relax your body as
well.
As you begin your breathing to prepare for practice, begin at the crown of
your head and scan your body for any tenseness. Take time to relax any
tense muscles, and allow your body to go soft. Just use enough muscular
tension to keep your body in proper position.
Dont meditate when you are sleepy.
When tired, your mind will tend to wander. Your practice will be a real
struggle, and of low quality. Quality practice is important for the best results.
This can be a challenge, because most of us go through life feeling tired.
Most of us dont get enough sleep.
If drowsiness becomes a problem, try the sitting in a chair posture (described
later). That should help.
You can also alter your schedule to a time of day when you are most alert.
When to practice?
When you practice (the time of day) is not particularly important. It is
important that you pick a time and place that is void of distractions. For this
reason, most people prefer early morning or late night works best.
Some people are morning people. Some are late night people. So, pick a
time that matches your disposition as the time when you feel most alert.
The main consideration here is when do you concentrate best? When is
your ability to focus at its prime? Remember, that is what this is all about-
your attention being focused and maintained for an extended period of time.
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
16/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
16
How often? And, for how long?
This really needs to become a daily practice. Minimum 20 minutes per day.
Obviously, the more you practice, the quicker the results. Optimum schedule
would be 30 minutes in morning, and 30 minutes in the evening. It really
depends on the free time available. Most people would be hard pressed tofind an extra 30 minutes twice a day. 30 minutes per day will produce
adequate results.
If you have not accomplished the objective of this manual by 4 months, you
might want to try to go to twice a day until you reach your goal.
TIP: It is a good idea to use a timer on your watch, or a simple wind up
kitchen timer to provide you with a signal that you have spent the right
amount of time practicing. Otherwise, you may be tempted to keep checking
the clock, and become distracted.
Note: Dont rush the training. Dont become obsessed. When you start to get
real results, the training becomes fun and even entertaining. So, you will
look forward to practice. Consistency is the key!
Sit, stand, or lie down? Considerations of Posture
For the work we are undertaking here, sitting is by far the best posture. It is
very difficult at this stage to achieve the results we are looking for when the
legs are extended.
(Choosing to practice in bed while falling asleep, could be helpful as
supplementary practice, but not as your primary method.) You will find it
very difficult to get any sensation in the beginning, with the legs straight.
I recommend sitting crossed legged. Not a full lotus position where the
lower legs are tied into a pretzel. Remember, you want to be relaxed and
comfortable.
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
17/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
17
The hands can be place palms down resting on the knees.(Figure 1)
Or, the hand can be turned palm up. In this position, let the back of the
wrists rest on the knees. Hands are comfortably open, but without any
fingers touching. (Figure 2)
After sitting a while in this position, you may find that the circulation ofblood is cut off in your legs. They may begin to fall asleep.
This could become quite uncomfortable and distract from your practice.
Figure 1
Figure 2
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
18/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
18
If this is the case, sit on a cushion that will elevate your body 4-6 inches off
of the floor. This should help to relieve some of the pressure on your legs.
(Figure 3)
Sitting with your back unsupported- away from a wall may help you to stay
awake and alert. This posture will not allow you to rely on something to
keep you upright.
Sitting with your back against a wall may help to keep you focused. You will
not feel your body swaying. Nor will you be using extra muscles to keep you
upright.
Figure 3
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
19/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
19
Another Option
Sitting in a chair is yet another option. This may be best if you still find your
legs falling asleep while using a cushion, or you consistently become drowsy
during practice.
If you choose to sit in a chair, sit forward in the chair with only your upper
body supported by the chair- not your legs.(Figure 4) Your feet should be
approximately shoulder width apart. Your feet should be directly under your
knees resting flat on the floor.
Additional Tips
Your eyes should be lightly closed and positioned as if gazing downward at
a comfortable angle.
Your teeth should be lightly touching as your lower jaw rests against yourupper jaw.
Touch the tip of your tongue against the roof of your mouth. It should rest
just behind, but not touching your upper teeth.
Figure 4
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
20/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
20
This tongue position is not a major factor now, but will come into play with
more advanced training down the road.
(Consider the next publication in this series- Discovering theMicro-Cosmic Orbit atwww.chidevelopment.com )
Your mouth will remain closed. You will be breathing through your nose. So,
it is a good idea to check to see that your nasal passages are clear before you
settle in for your routine.
Keep your back fairly straight. Your head can tilt slightly forward, but your
chin should not rest on your chest. This could restrict your breathing.
Training?, Practice?, Work?, What is it?
Indeed, it is all of the above. How can it be training, practice, or work when
you are essentially motionless? You may have heard the term internal
work to describe this process.
It is an effort in focus. An effort in concentration. An effort in feeling. Aneffort in attention.
It is considered work because it does require effort. It requires the utmost
mental discipline.
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
21/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
21
Section Five
The Objective:
Your objective in this course is to:
Identi fy, And Establish Your Center
This is the most important foundational achievement. It will confirm your
belief in the existence of chi, allow you first hand undeniable proof, and
afford you tremendous future possibilities for growth and discovery.
Lets get started!
You can think of this basic course as learning to wake up and enliven the
nerve endings of the body. In this case, your center. The Chinese refer to
this area as the dan tien (pronounced don teein).
It is located proximately 2-3 inches below you navel, and in the middle ofyour body.
The Focal Point
You must feel your center. This is the area 2-3 inches below your navel in
the center of your body.
Imagine the area located at your center the size of a golf ball. Put your
feeling-attention focused at this spot in your body.
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
22/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
22
Note:
Turn all of your attention and focus inside. Become focused on the activity
of feeling your center. Initially, what you will be doing, is warming up
all of the nerve endings lying dormant at your center.
Dont picture in your mind you looking at your center. You will have to
literally feel it. You put your feeling-attention in your body at the place
you believe your center lies.
Develop No Mind
As you focus, try to avoid random thought. Thoughts as words (mentallytalking to yourself) draws away from the exercise. Instead of your mind
thinking in terms of words, use your mind and attention to feel.
If you are successful for short periods of time at stopping your inner
dialogue, you are likely to think in terms of pictures or images. Again, try to
avoid this. Visualizing mental pictures also draws your attention from your
focus.
(The only exceptions to this are the specific visualizations provided to
increase your mind/body experience.)
Your breath is not just a breath
At this basic level of chi development, the proper use of your breath can
have a great deal of impact on the results you attain. When done properly,
this one factor can accelerate your progress, and help to keep your mind
focused.
As mentioned above, you will be breathing in and out of your nose.
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
23/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
23
Section Six
Insider Secret #1
Use Your Breath as a ToolYour breathing can be used to speed your progress.
As you inhale, feel the air enter your nostrils and move down your throat
(Figure 5). Then, rather than filling your lungs, feel the air as a continuous
column flowing down the inside of the front of your body, down into a
cavity at your center (Figure 6). Breath slowly. Take five seconds to inhale,
and five seconds to exhale.
Figure 5 Figure 6 Figure 7
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
24/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
24
As you inhale, the cavity (your center) expands. As you exhale, the cavity
(your center) contracts.
Dont force it. Just feel it.
Imagine it as if it is real. (It will be).
Exhale.
As you exhale, feel your center compress as your lower stomach naturally
contracts and returns to its natural position (Figure 7).
This is the basic version of the exercise. As your feeling attention is focused
on this center area, chi will accumulate there. It will begin right away,
although you will not actually feel this accumulation for some time.
Exercise:
As you breath, fill your lungs from the bottom, up.
Visualize your center as a vase, large and round at the
bottom. As water (breath) is poured into the vase, feelyour lower abdomen expanding first (Figure 8). Try to
let it expand even below you navel. Do not allow your
chest to expand and contract.
Visualize your diaphragm (a muscular membrane below
the lungs that separates the upper and lower trunk area)
as being at around the level of your navel.
When I say visualize, I mean to imagine and feel it
to be so.
Feel your diaphragm expand downward as you inhale.
And, feel it expand your center as your lower stomachFigure 8
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
25/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
25
naturally expands.
It is commonly known by internal energy experts that chi follows the mind.
Or, where the mind goes, the chi will follow. Because your mind and
attention is at your center, chi will accumulate there.
The Struggle
The only problem with this training, becomes disciplining the mind to
remain at the center.
The Chinese Masters often refer to the Westerners mind as monkey mind,because it is never still. It constantly jumps from one thought to another,
never able to stay focused for more than a few seconds on a single idea.
This wandering mind will always be a challenge.
I will teach you several ways to help with this.
Common tip:
One of the ways to help you with this, is to count your breaths. Begin by
counting from one to ten, then begin again. This is a common technique, but
has its shortcomings.
What you will find, is that as you begin your inhale, and count to yourself
one, too much time passes between breaths, and your mind has time towander.
Remember, I said try to squelch random thoughts? I said to try to avoid
thoughts as words.
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
26/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
26
Try this exercise:
Sit quietly. Close your eyes. And, see how long you can go without a thoughtas words. You may begin, and in a second or two think, Is it working?.
Oh, that was a thought!
It is amazing how short is ones ability is to have a mind free of
thoughts.
So, to try to count one, and keep the mind free of thought for
10 seconds (inhale/exhale, 5 seconds each) until two, is difficult at best.
Insider Secret #2- Improved Counting Method
Theres a better way to count.
It is impossible to audibly utter more than one thought or word at time. It issimilar for your mental voice. If you are saying one word to yourself
internally, it is difficult to say another word at the same time.
As you count your breath, instead of counting one at the beginning of your
breath, draw out the enunciation of the count for the duration of the
inhalation.
As you inhale, count to yourself, oooonnnneeee, until your inhale is
complete. Then count again, oooonnnneeee as you exhale. Then repeat to
ten and begin again. Each time, drawing out the enunciation.
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
27/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
27
I am sure you recall, that I said try not to have thoughts as words. Then, I
recommend a technique that does just that.
This is true. But, I believe that for now, and maybe forever, most peoples
minds will wander randomly. This will hinder your practice as soon as it
starts.
Remember, I want you to have every advantage in learning this skill.
This technique will minimize the tendency for the mind to wander. And,
because it is redundant, it will allow your feeling-attention to be focused on
your center even while the inner voice is speaking.
You will be able to count to avoid random thoughts. Yet, you will be able to
ignore the voice and concentrate on your internal work. The counting will go
on in the background as you feel your center.
Tip:
If you find your mind wandering, gently bring your feeling-attention back to
the center.
Section Eight
Looking For A Feeling
As you breath, your lungs fill with oxygen and push your diaphragm down,
compressing your internal organs. When your organs and intestines
compress, there is movement in your lower abdomen- perhaps at, or near
your center.
The feeling of any movement at your center is desirable. If you can feel this,
or sense this, it can be the beginning of a more substantial sensation later.
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
28/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
28
Heres an exercise that will help this approach.
Insider Secret #3- Advanced Breathing Method
As you inhale, fill your lungs more than you normally do.Do not do this to the point where it is uncomfortable. As
you inhale, let your lower abdominal muscles resist a
little to the force of the diaphragm on the intestines
(Figure 9).
This will emphasize the movement of the center area, and
give your mind something to feel; something to attach
to.
You are looking for any feeling sensation in your center
which you can identify and hold on to.
Hold this breath for 5 seconds.
(You can say hhhhoooolllld to yourself in between the
inhalation and exhalation)
As you exhale, slightly tighten your lower abdominal
muscles to push the air out back out of your center (Figure
10). Do this very gradually. You, again, want to create a little
resistance. Feel for movement. Feel for any surface area
within your center to hold on to.
Figure 9
Figure 10
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
29/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
29
Insider Secret #4 Be Aware Of Not Center
Your attention may be drawn to an area that, as you notice, is not where you
would imagine your center to be. Yet, your mind will attach itself to any
sensation. After all, thats the initial objective.
So, if you notice this happening, allow your mind to let go of that sensation
as soon as you recognize that it is not center. Otherwise, you will establish
a center that is not true. It will be other than center. And, you will have
to work harder to re-establish a true center.
Insider Secret #5- Visualizations Are Key
Visualizations are a major factor in internal work.
What you are vividly imagining as real, causes your mind and body to
respond as if it were happening, and make extraordinary progress. The
design of the visualizations are of utmost importance.
The following is one such exercise.
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
30/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
30
Advanced Exercise #1- The Balloon Visualizat ion
An advanced method to the resistance exercise
above is to imagine a small hole in the center of
your diaphragm (which we are already imagining to
be about the level of our navel). Imagine the hole,
perhaps the size of a dime, ~1/2).
Now, imagine a small pear shaped balloon attached
to the underside of that hole. As you inhale, and
pressure builds above the diaphragm, imagine thepressure of the air pushing down, entering the
balloon and blowing it up (Figure 11) .
As the balloon expands, it fills your center. It meets
slight resistance from the surrounding area.
(you may also choose to hold this breath for 5
seconds).
As you exhale, the area surrounding the balloon
compresses inward, manifesting a feeling of substance
at your center (Figure 12).
At the end of your exhale, the balloon is deflated andyour diaphragm is up (Figure 13).
Figure 11
Figure
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
31/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
31
Advanced Tip For Locating You Center
Another way to mentally and physically identify your center is by the use of
your hands. Rather than resting your hands on your knees, you can lay themon your lap.
Overlap your hands with your palms up, and the tips of your thumbs
touching. Lay them on your lap with the edges of your palms pressing into
your stomach below your navel, in front of the spot you believe is your
center (Approximately 2-3 inches below your navel) (Figure 14).
As you inhale, feel your hands against your body directly in front of yourcenter. Use this as a physical reference point to guide your mind to the point
inside, behind your hands.
This will help you to locate your center, and give your mind a more
identifiable area to feel.
Figure
Figure 14
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
32/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
32
Sensations
As you continue your practice for several weeks, you could experience a
variety of sensations, any of which are good.
Sensations of warmth, tingling, heaviness, or slight burning in your center
area are a sign of accomplishment.
You may find that an area larger than the golf ball size spot we are focusingon will have the sensations. This is OK. But, you need to continue to
concentrate your feeling-attention to the same small center. Your center
should feel manageable.
Your center should form and grow from a concentrated area.
Advanced Exercise #2- The Bellows Visualization
This time, as you inhale, visualize your
lungs acting as a bellows. Imagine the
old fashioned fireplace bellows used to
stoke a fire by blowing oxygen across the
coals to generate heat and fire.
Figure 15
-
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
33/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
33
Visualize your center as being made of coals. The coals are held together by
a screen material which contains the coal, and maintains its shape. As you
inhale, the air blows through your center (coals), and stokes the coals to a
fiery glow (Figure 15).
As you exhale, imagine the bellows sucking air upward from under your
center (coals). The air passes through your center and stokes the coals again
into a fiery glow (Figure 16).
So, the feeling of a glowing heat is generated with both the inhale and
exhale.
This will help you to locate your center, and give your mind a moreidentifiable are to feel.
Figure 16
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
34/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
34
Section Nine
What To Expect
Early Signs
At the first signs of authentic energy sensation, you may feel a tiny pinch, or
pin prick, or the feeling of something small and hard at your center.
This is what you are looking for. Allow your mind to attach itself to that
sensation. Hold it with your feeling-attention.
Then, you will find that some days it will come easy. Some days it is gone.
It will become consistent.
As it becomes consistent, instead of feeling it as a tiny point, allow your
feeling-attention to surround it encapsulate it, if you will.
This is just a technique to grow that area into something more substantial.
Once this is accomplished, you should work to feel a real expanding and
contracting of your center as you breathe.
Work with the visualizations provided and use the methods that work best
for you. Notice also which methods not only give you the best sensation, but
also, which keep your mind most attentive to your center.
It is the undistracted, focused, feeling-attention maintained for the longest
spans of time that will bring the best results.
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
35/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
35
Good Days and Bad Days
You will find that some days you are drowsy, unfocused, or distracted. It will
be a struggle to get through your 30 minutes. And, you will feel frustrated
that your practice seemed unproductive.
This could be due to your diet that day, personal stresses, drowsiness, etc.
Dont sweat it!
You will have some days where things are happening. Especially after you
have established your center.
Your focus is good. Your mind is in tune with your internal body and youll
have an amazing feeling of heat and energy at your center. Your breath will
be sensed as stoking the fire, and the sensations will be undeniable.
As you practice more, this will always be the case.
Insider Tip
On these good days, I recommend that you dont stop at your predetermined
time. Keep up the practice maybe double your time. It will be worthwhile
because your progress is evident and you will have a great feeling of
progress and accomplishment.
It is at these times that you will have special breakthrough discoveries, and
reach new deeper levels of experience.
Persistence
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
36/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
36
Remember, I said this process takes time. The methods described above will
get you results more quickly than anything else available.
So, use this information.
Dont let this information become just head knowledge. Thats what you
are trying to go beyond. Thats why you bought this manual.
You want more. You want the real thing. You want the authentic experience.
Be one of the few who can speak of chi energy because you know.
You can have it. All the information you need is contained in this book.
Commit yourself to the practice. Say to yourself, I will continue until it
happens. And, once it does, I will continue further.
Challenge
Seriously consider this process becoming a part of your daily life- from now
on.
It can become your time. Like a daily mini vacation away from the stress
and cares of your life. A time of peace & inner exploration that you look
forward to everyday. A time that will be greatly missed if you ever have to
skip a practice session.
Section Ten
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
37/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
Copyright 2006 All Rights Reserved www.chidevelopment.com
37
Final Thoughts
Imagine being able to actually feel your internal energy.
Imagine how youll feel when you have acquired this special ability.
This is like digging your well. A well from which to draw whenever you
practice your art.
Now, you have the key to a full and rewarding experience.
If you have not mastered this foundational skill, its like trying to drive a car
with no gasoline in your tank. Dont pass this up!
When you have indeed mastered this step in internal energy development, it
will be time to begin to discover how to move your energy within your body.
Return towww.chidevelopment.comfor future publications.
Whats Next?
Once you complete this first vital step by experiencing an undeniable, well-defined center, it will be time to step through the next door and begin to
move your energy.
Discovering The Microcosmic Orbit
To get the inside secrets to this next stage of your training, go back to
www.chidevelopment.com.
Section Eleven
http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/http://www.chidevelopment.com/ -
7/29/2019 Internal Energy Secrets
38/38
Basic Internal Energy Development- The Truth Beyond The Hype
About the Author
Sifu Trey Crake is ranked as a Master Level Black Sash in Lung Shou Pai (Dragon Claw
Style) Kung Fu. He is a senior member of the Lung Shou Pai 5th Generation lineage.
Sifu Crake began his training in the Lung Shou Pai System in 1979. He received over 25
years of professional instruction directly from Grandmaster Norman J. Pedelahore. SifuCrake received full Instructor rank of 3rd Level Sash Belt in 1985. At this time, Sifu
Crake was honored to be adopted into the Lung Shou Pai family through the Pai Shi TeaCeremony, which made him an heir of the Lung Shou Pai system. He has also received
additional extensive training in "Five Formed Fist" (Tung Wu Ch'uan Fa)- Tiger, Snake,
Leopard, Dragon and Crane, also from Grandmaster Pedelahore.
His training continued over the years in both external and internal aspects of Chinese
Kung Fu.
In 1984, he was elected as the Louisiana State Director of the World Chinese Martial Arts
Federation.
In addition to running his own Kung Fu school during his years at Louisiana State
University, Sifu Crake studied Yang Style Tai Chi under the instruction of Master
Michael Chow of Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
As a part of his Lung Shou Pai training, Sifu Crake has obtained extensive training in
many traditional Kung Fu weapons: Stick, Cane, Nunchaku, Staff, Three-Sectional Staff,Spear, Broadsword, Double Broadsword, Wooden Dummy, Kwon-do, chain whip,
fighting fan, tiger fork, straight sword, two-man sets, knife, etc. Also, the Li Family Tai
Chi style, iron palm, etc.
In 2004, Sifu Crake was elected Mississippi State Director of the International Chinese
Boxing Association, as an Executive Board Member.
He can be reached at [email protected]
Sifu Crake also offers exclusive comprehensive home study programs in Dragon Claw
Kung Fu training atwww.dragonclawvideos.com.
And, FREE self defense instructional videos at
www.Martial-Arts-And-Self-Defense.com
http://www.dragonclawvideos.com/http://www.dragonclawvideos.com/http://www.dragonclawvideos.com/http://www.dragonclawvideos.com/http://www.martial-arts-and-self-defense.com/http://www.martial-arts-and-self-defense.com/http://www.martial-arts-and-self-defense.com/http://www.dragonclawvideos.com/