13. Spiritual Growth
What is spiritual growth? Is it an increase in one's ability to perform good deeds? Is it being able to sit in meditation for long periods of time or perform harder yoga postures with greater awareness? Is it improving one’s ability to do things we don’t like while remaining serene and with a smile? There are probably as many different interpretations of what spiritual growth is as there are practices to bring it about. For the purposes of this article, we are going to define spiritual growth as the process of expanding ones’ consciousness of the nature of reality, along with a cultivation of certain qualities.
Developing these two aspects steadily in unison will help keep your feet firmly on the path. So now a question we may ask ourselves is what does that path look like? How does consciousness expand and what qualities are we trying to develop? Many of the great traditions have developed their own “map” to heaven or enlightenment so to speak. In this article we are going to briefly compare Daoist spiritual/energetic anatomy and that of yoga, discuss ‘contracted’ and ‘expanded’ states and their relation to these systems, take a closer look at what is known as “The Microcosmic Orbit” in Daoism and finally discuss how one can systematically approach spiritual growth and avoid its pitfalls.
Comparing Two Systems
To begin with let’s take a look at the Daoist spiritual/energetic anatomy model, known as “The Microcosmic Orbit” and the Yogic spiritual/energetic anatomy model - “The Chakras”.
As can be seen in the yogic chakra system, there are two main channels that weave up the body like serpents. These are called the Pingala and Ida channels. At each point where these serpents intersect is an energy center, or in yoga terms a Chakra. There are seven chakras in total which form one central channel called the Sushumna channel.
In the Daoist/qigong model, we have the Micro Cosmic Orbit, a connected loop that runs up the back of the body and down the front. This loop is made up of the Du Mai channel (running up the back of the body) and the Ren Mai channel (running down the front of the body). Within this one large loop of energy there are seven smaller loops. These mini loops each pass through key points on the front and back of the body, creating what are referred to as loops of power. Running up the centre of the body we have the Chong Mai channel, or central/charging channel.
As we can see both systems contain points of focused energy running along the centre of the body . In both systems these different points of focused energy are associated with different qualities. They also both contain a central channel which is polarized, the lower pole being associated with more earthly qualities while the upper pole associated with more heavenly qualities (we will look at this in more depth shortly). There are also some noticeable differences, such as placement of these points of energy, number of points, and the different shape of the channels.
So, if we are all human, then why have these two traditions developed two different systems? Shouldn’t they be the same, just like physical anatomical structures?
In answering this question we have to first realize that these systems as they are presented are merely two dimensional depictions. Reality is far more complex, containing many more dimensions than just two or three...what we see here is a difference in how two different cultures have interpreted the same phenomena and their attempts at transcribing them into a form that can be grasped by the average spiritual searcher. One can only describe a song so well with words… at one point or another we must experience the song first-hand to know what it truly is. It could also be said that we simply do not yet have the technological means to accurately measure what is happening or the required language to express it in an empirical model.
Another factor that has influenced these depictions is the methods of spiritual practice developed by each culture. The techniques are different, the experiences lived along the journey vary, the results of the practice will also have their own qualities. Because of this the qualities and characteristics of the energy cultivated will be different. You could say they have each come up with their own “map” to the same destination… each traveler arriving at the destination with their own unique lived experiences and backpack full of tools. Therefore, it is also reasonable to expect that these two systems of practice are interpreted through two different forms of spiritual anatomy.
Contracted & Expanded States
In our previous article, “Qigong – where does the practice lead?”, we talked a lot about expanding awareness and experiencing the interconnectedness of reality. We also mentioned what can be called expanded states and contracted states. In a nutshell, an expanded state could be defined as being in a state of presence and acting in harmony with the aforementioned interconnectedness of reality. A contracted state could be defined as being oblivious to and/or acting contrary to this interconnectedness. An example of an expanded state would be a feeling of gratitude for all the opportunities you have been presented with in your life. A contracted stated would be a feeling of self-pity because you never received an inheritance and your parents never bought you a car when you graduated. A desire to be in service to others is another great example of an expanded state quality, whereas excessive service to self, greed or selfishness, is a clear example of a contracted state. In short, expanded states connect and bring energy, while contracted states isolate and lead to stagnation of energy (see our insect and ecosystem analogies in our previous article). This is why we often see people trapped in contracted states constantly searching for more… their way of being does not nourish them, so they constantly search to be nourished from things external to themselves. Many forms of mental illness could also be described as chronically contracted states.
Both the Daoist and the Yogic systems search to transform these contracted states and ways of being into expanded states and ways of being. In following these paths one naturally feels more energy, enjoys better health and learns to find a sense of contentment from within.
The Microcosmic Orbit
There are a number of factors that have influenced the form the microcosmic orbit has taken. Yin yang theory, martial arts, healing practices, understanding of the Dao and wisdom gained through self-cultivation have all played their part. Let’s take a closer look at the particulars of this model, laid out for us thousands of years ago by the Daoist sages.
As can be seen in the above diagram the microcosmic orbit is made up of the 督脈Dumai (Governor Channel/Vessel) and the 任脈Renmai (Conception Channel/Vessel). In Classical Chinese Medicine and Martial Arts Theory (both one in the same) the back and outward facing parts of the body are considered yang and are associated with protection, structure and support. The Dumai is considered the “Ocean of Yang” and feeds all of the yang meridians of the body. The front side and inward facing parts of the body are considered yin which is associated with nourishment and vital functions. The Renmai is considered the “Ocean of Yin” and in turn nourishes all of the yin meridians of the body. This is succinctly captured in the Chinese phrase...
任脈主血，為陰脈之海;督脈主氣，為陽脈之海
(renmai zhu xue, wei yinmai zhi hai；dumai zhu qi, wei yangmai zhi hai)
The conception channel is master of the blood, it is the ocean of yin and source of the yin channels/meridians; The Governor Channel is the master of qi, it is the ocean of yang and source of the yang channels/meridians.
Under normal circumstances both of these channels flow in an upward direction. Despite the higher energy centers being associated with more heavenly qualities, aging is also likened to a shift in energy from the lower centers towards the higher centers of the body. This is not a desirable outcome for the qigong and Daoist practitioner and is illustrated by the average lifecycle of the human in relation to breath.
When we are a baby and a toddler, we have a nice little pot-belly and this is where we naturally breathe. The diaphragm moves freely as we are largely uninhibited from conditioning and naturally have a relaxed abdomen. Toddlers and babies live from this center, expressing what they feel and acting out their wants and needs spontaneously.
As we move into adolescence the energy and breath moves from the instinctual center of the abdomen towards the emotional center of the chest/heart. Physically the chest area expands and we can often see a contraction of the abdomen. Adolescents tend to be far more emotional and search for emotional acceptance from their peers. It is often at this time that we start overriding our own instincts and needs in order to gain acceptance. Most of us can relate to and this is also when feelings of romantic love first develop.
As we become adults and then shift into middle age, the energy gradually shifts from the very emotional chest area towards the mental center of the head. During these stages we spend far more time invested in intellectual pursuits. Emotional needs often take a back seat to pursuing the necessities of life and our ambitions for the future. As we continue to prioritize this energy center over the emotional and instinctual needs of the lower centers, we start to see the breath becoming shallower and shallower. We often forget to breathe when concentrating and tend to restrict our breathing more and more to the upper lungs.
If over the course of our lifetime we have continued to ignore the lower centers, more and more of this energy accumulates in the head. In old age our thinking can often become rigid and we feel very uncomfortable with change and uncertainty. In the breath this may manifest as extreme difficulty breathing and possible respiratory problems.
This brings us to one of the defining principles of the microcosmic orbit and shows us why it is depicted as a loop when drawn. In order to create the microcosmic orbit one must learn to reverse the conception channels’ direction of flow and connect it with the Governor Channel. Achieving this allows the practitioner to both draw energy up to the higher centres as well as to bring it back down safely to the lower centres, maintaining a full healthy breath for life, cultivating longevity and remaining grounded in the journey of spiritual growth.
The Seven Loops of the Microcosmic Orbit
The microcosmic orbit can be further divided into mini loops, each with their own energy centres of differing characteristics. In total there are 14 points which are considered the 14 most powerful acupuncture points of the body. Each point holds 1/14th of your power and are treasures that can be dug up, opened and cleansed. These points will either be open and flowing like water in a river (in an expanded state) or blocked like a dam (in a contracted state). Let us take a look at the expanded and contracted states of each of the points of the microcosmic orbit loop by loop.
1st Loop – Fecundity Loop - Base – Ovaries & Prostrate
The loop of fecundity (fertility, prosperity, creativity and sexual energy). When this area is shut down it’s difficult to love life, as it feels like a series of duties, a mountain to climb and you don't know what you want, you think more about 'shoulds' - emotional and mental.
Hui Yin 會陰 RM1 (base of sacrum, perineum)
Contracted State Qualities: fear, instability, insecurity, feeling uncomfortable, critical of others and self, feeling criticised, perfectionism (perfectionism is a sickness and you can never sit still and feel satisfied), disconnected from the mother (earth).
Expanded State Qualities: satisfaction, stability, solidity, comfort and support.
Chang Qiang 長強 DU1 (between the anus and the tail bone)
Contracted State Qualities: playing it safe, not taking risks, paralysed by fear (like an animal with its tail between its legs), fear of missing out.
Expanded State Qualities: right place, right time, spontaneity, feeling alert, being in tune with momentum.
Guan Yuan 關元 RM4 (women- uterus) / Zhong Ji 中極 RM3 (men- prostate)
Contracted State Qualities: It is the root of self-destructive behaviour such as over-working, over-drinking, over-talking etc.
Expanded State Qualities: playfulness, optimism, originality, uniqueness and creativity. This is where your inner child dwells.
2nd Loop – Personal Power Loop - Lower Dantian – Pancreas
This area is about centering your body, personal power and leading a strong intentional life.
Shen Que 神闕 RM8 (navel)
Also referred to as the ‘eye of the master’.
Contracted State Qualities: weakness, tiredness and it feels difficult to be oneself.
Expanded State Qualities: strong sense of direction and clarity.
Ming Men 命門 (DM4 – L2, L3)
The Gate of Life.
Contracted State Qualities: feelings of inferiority, defensiveness and aggression.
Expanded State Qualities: power, endurance, calmness and a feeling that ‘life is easy’.
Ming Men is considered the most powerful acupuncture point in the body. It is often referred to as your bank account of energy and is linked with kidney energy which is associated with the water element. The more water energy you have in the kidneys the higher you can raise the fire in the Middle Dantian (the third loop) where the adrenal glands are located. When the water energy of the kidneys is low, then the fire of the adrenals/middle dantian quickly becomes destructive.
3rd Loop – Self Respect/Awareness Loop - Solar Plexus – Adrenal Glands
The loop of awareness, self-respect and recognising who we truly are.
Zhong Wan 中脘 (RM 12)
The solar plexus – our own personal sun.
Contracted State Qualities: performing, conformism, anxiety, panic, self-dissatisfaction, guilt, shame, intolerance of difference. This is where emotional wounds hide.
Expanded State Qualities: self-esteem, tolerance, dignity and humility.
Ji Zhong 脊中 T11, DM6
This point is linked to living on adrenaline and is located just above your adrenals.
Contracted State Qualities: restlessness, rigidity to change, stress, laziness and heaviness.
Expanded State Qualities: flexibility, adaptability and self-confidence.
4th Loop – Appreciation Loop - The Heart Centre – Thymus Gland
The loop of love and acceptance of others.
Shen Dao 神道 (T6, DM 11)
This is the point of the wings.
Contracted State Qualities: victim mentality, hopelessness, heaviness and carrying the weight of the world.
Expanded State Qualities: freedom and lightness.
This is a blind spot in our body that is hard to physically touch and massage. It is easy to accumulate a lot of tension here.
Dan Zhong 膻中 (RM 17)
Located on the sternum between the breasts. It's related to the powers of the heart.
Contracted State Qualities: small talk, gossip, inability to talk from the heart, hate.
Expanded State Qualities: appreciation, enthusiasm, love, excitement.
5th Loop – Communication Loop- Throat Centre – Thyroid Gland
Da Zhui 大椎 (C7, DM 14)
It is the crossroad where the arms connect to the spine. This is where we stretch out and reach out to others and for our dreams.
Contracted State Qualities: stubbornness, not asking for help even when one is overloaded.
Expanded State Qualities: success and our ability to embrace others.
Xuan Ji 璿璣 RM 21
The small hollow sitting just above the sternum at the base of the throat.
Contracted State Qualities: inability to communicate from the heart because you are disconnected from your emotions, chronic self-censoring.
Expanded State Qualities: eloquence, the ability to express one’s thoughts and emotions freely and fluidly.
6th Loop – Vision Loop – Third Eye - Pituitary gland
Feng Fu 風府 (C1, DM 16)
Controls the right and back lobes of the brain and is one of the three wind points.
Contracted State Qualities: narrow minded, disillusioned and no vision.
Expanded State Qualities: ability of abstraction, intuition, psychic abilities, open mindedness and vision.
Yin Tang 印堂 (middle of eye brows)
Controls the left and frontal lobes of the brain.
Contracted State Qualities: difficulty concentrating, being distracted and more likely to make quests of insignificance.
Expanded State Qualities: possessing knowledge and understanding that bridges paradox, adept in rational thought.
7th Loop – The Loop of Transcendence – Crown Centre – Pineal & Hypothalamus Glands
Bai Hui 百會 (back crown of the head)
Connection with the yang energy of heaven)
Contracted State Qualities: belief that 'life has no meaning' and a feeling of being lost.
Expanded State Qualities: Strong supportive inner voice, inspiration, feeling guided by higher forces, connection to the greater self.
Xin Hui 囟会 (front crown of the head)
Although not counted among the 14 points of the microcosmic orbit, this point is still considered very significant in that it is a juncture for the ascending energy of the Governor Channel to begin its descent back down the Conception Channel.
Once again it is important to emphasize that these points and their qualities are not just points that are bound to one specific location within the human body. As we have discussed, we exist in a multitude of dimensions, our energies and qualities intricately connected with all the beings and world that surrounds us and beyond. This brings us back to our first article “Qigong – Definition”, and the story of the seed. The Qi of the seed, mixing with the Qi of the soil, rain, wind and sunshine to bring about the natural tendencies and qualities of the seed. This too applies to these energy centers and their qualities and tendencies. It is important to honor this connectedness while working on the microcosmic orbit, learning from others and sharing our gifts.
Approach to Practice
Daoist and qigong practitioners place enormous importance on the grounding aspect of spiritual growth. For this reason it remains the focus of practice for many, many years. This is a large part of why martial arts and standing meditation are such core practices, especially in the early stages of development. By learning to physically channel an opponent’s energy to the ground without creating physical tension in the body, one also trains the necessary skills for channelling emotional and mental energy to the earth without creating blockages and tensions in the body. In this way one avoids too much energy becoming trapped in the higher energy centres.
Therefore, we work through each of these centres one by one from the base (Earth) to the top (Heaven)... each loop creating a foundation and support to safely work on the subsequent loop. Before we move up to our emotional centres we need to feel supported and safe, our basic animal and human needs met. Similarly, before we can move up into the mind centre we need our emotions to be tended to so we can have clarity in our thinking, understanding, insights and discernment about ourselves and our environment. Having developed these strong intellectual qualities we can then open up to higher spiritual connections while still grounding the experience with wisdom, discernment and clarity.
This can also be seen when looking at human anatomy and the main cavities of the body…
Crown of the Head - Parietal cortex, pineal, pituitary, hypothalamus glands- Higher spiritual qualities
Head Cavity - intellectual qualities
Throat Cavity - qualities of communication and expression
Thoracic Cavity - emotional qualities and needs
Abdominal Cavity - life supporting needs, production of energy and refining of food into usable nutrients.
Sexual Cavity – animal instincts and qualities associated with perpetuating the species.)
Each cavity providing the necessary foundation for the subsequent to develop with stability and safety.
Some practical ways to help you ground your energy…
Tune into the breath as this is an anchor that helps us tune into feeling rather than thinking.
Calm your heart and emotions.
Quieten your mind.
Remain very humble in your spiritual growth.
Spend time in nature, the earth and water are wonderful teachers of understated abundance and humility.
Avoid excess stimulation.
Cultivate healthy eating and sleeping habits.
Smile.
There is a whole universe of dormant seeds, sleeping in your illusory world of dreams waiting for the proper catalysts to sprout and manifest them into your reality. These catalysts are found in the inspired actions and intentional steps you take towards your greatest visions. Metaphorically those actions represent the water you pour on your seeds to see them grow.
Catalysts need to be sustained so they can achieve their work more efficiently. Not all seeds sprout at the same pace but rather they manifest “on time” (though this “on time” may not always be apparent to us). If you manage to wrap all those catalysts into some kind of ritualised lifestyle you will be more present and savour the joy of witnessing not only the fruits of your actions but the excitements of what life is about to deliver.
We create peace from peace.
We create health from health.
We create grace from grace.
We create flexibility from flexibility.
We create heaven on earth by embodying heaven on earth.
It really applies to everything.
We cannot stop expressing and co-creating with our body, our emotions, our thoughts, the words we say, with everything that we do. Everything we do has consequences, ripples that go beyond the immediate situation. So, let’s be mindful of what is happening within ourselves and let’s create a beautiful world outside and in.
With love & gratitude,
Dawa & No Mi.
