Dear Friends
We hope this message finds you in safety and surrounded by the support of loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. We have been watching the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene with heavy hearts, knowing that some of you in the Southeast have been directly affected by this storm. The images of the destruction—homes lost, communities disrupted, and lives uprooted—are hard to fathom, and we want you to know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
We cannot begin to imagine the challenges you are facing, but please know that you are not alone. The Integral Way community stands with you in solidarity, ready to offer whatever support we can. Whether it’s helping with relief efforts or simply being there to listen and offer encouragement, we are committed to doing what we can to ease your burden.
In times like these, the teachings and practices of the Integral Way offer guidance and strength. Now more than ever, these practices can help you maintain faith, stay balanced, and be resilient in the face of adversity. The wisdom of aligning with nature’s cycles, maintaining inner peace, and nurturing community will serve as a vital source of healing and renewal during this trying time.
If there are specific ways we can assist—whether it’s providing resources, sending supplies, or connecting you with support services—please do not hesitate to reach out. In times of crisis, the strength of a community is invaluable, and we are here for you.
Please take care of yourselves and your loved ones. We are hopeful that, with the resilience and unity that defines your communities, better days lie ahead.
With heartfelt concern and support,🙏
Amira Kusala, Sue Sullivan and Dr. Mao Shing Ni
and the entire College of Tao Community
You may contact us at college.tao@gmail.com
October 2024
Using Feng Shui Principles to Adapt to Seasonal Changes for Health and Balance
By Dr. Mao Shing Ni
As summer transitions into autumn, it's important to adapt our habits and our home and work environments to the changes in nature in order to maintain health and harmony. Feng Shui, the ancient Chinese practice of aligning one's surroundings with the flow of energy (Qi), offers effective strategies to stay balanced during seasonal changes.
Embrace the Element of Metal
In Feng Shui, fall corresponds to the Metal element, which represents clarity, focus, and organization. Here are two tips to harness this energy—
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Declutter your space: Let go of items that no longer serve you, making room for new energy. Organized spaces can help create a focused, peaceful environment that are essential for mental clarity.
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Introduce Metal element colors and objects: Incorporate white, silver, and gray into your decor. Metal objects like sculptures or mirrors bring a sense of refinement and order to your space.
Balance Yin and Yang Energy
Fall brings a shift toward Yin energy—calm, introspective and cool—following the active, Yang-dominant summer. Achieving balance is key to adapting to the change:
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Soften your lighting: Use softer, warmer lights to create a cozier atmosphere as the daylight decreases.
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Slow down: Adjust your daily rhythm to reflect the calmer energy of fall. This might involve more reflection, meditation and restful activities.
Harmonize with the Five Elements
Feng Shui revolves around the interaction of the Five Elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. In autumn, Metal energy dominates, but it’s important to balance it with complementary elements. Here are two examples of how to use other elements to bring harmony:
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Introduce Earth elements to stay grounded. Earth element is the mother of Metal element. This can include ceramics, stones, or yellow and brown hues to support stability and nurturing energy.
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Support Metal with Water elements. Water element is the offspring of Metal element and has a modulating effect to prevent excess expression of Metal. This can include colors like blues and blacks, small fountains or water imagery
Focus on Lung and Immune Health
The lungs and skin as well as the immune system are associated with the Metal element and autumn in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Maintaining a healthy environment can support your well-being:
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Improve air quality: As the weather cools and windows are closed more often, ensure good air circulation. Consider air purifiers or adding plants like the ficus or peace lily, which help filter air, naturally.
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Hydration and moisture: Use humidifiers to maintain air moisture, as dry air can adversely affect your skin and respiratory health.
Adjust the Flow of Energy in Your Home
Autumn’s introspective energy benefits from a more deliberate flow of Qi. Try the following fengshui tips:
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Rearrange furniture: Ensure that furniture in your living and working spaces allows energy to flow smoothly, avoiding sharp corners pointing directly at seating areas, known as "poison arrows."
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Entrance: The entrance to your home is crucial in Feng Shui, as it represents the flow of opportunities and good energy. Keep the entrance well-lit, clean and inviting to attract positive Qi into your home.
Adapting your space according to Feng Shui principles as the seasons change from summer to fall helps maintain balance, health and harmony. Integrating these ancient Feng Shui principles into your space allows you to stay in harmony with the natural cycles of the year, helping you maintain physical and emotional balance. I invite you to study the feng shui course with Claire Cunneen and me at the Feng Shui School and use its ancient wisdom to positively and profoundly impact your life.
September 2024
Autumn: Harvesting Wisdom and Cultivating Inner Peace
By Dr. Mao Shing Ni
On my early morning walks in the last few days, I can feel the crisp cool air of autumn on my skin. I am reminded of the profound wisdom embedded in the changing seasons. Autumn is a time of harvest, a season where the fruits of our labor are gathered, and we reap what we have sown throughout the year. It is a period of reflection, gratitude, and preparation for the inward journey that winter will bring.
Autumn, in the Taoist view, is the season of Metal Element, which governs organization, setting limits, and the process of discernment. Just as farmers harvest their crops, we too are called to gather the results of our actions, thoughts, and intentions. It is a time to reflect on the seeds we have planted in the spring and nurtured through the summer. Are the fruits we are harvesting aligned with our deeper values and goals? Have we cultivated kindness, wisdom, and harmony in our lives and relationships?
This season teaches us that the energy we invest and the actions we take have consequences. It is a powerful reminder of the law of cause and effect—what we sow, we shall reap. By consciously observing this process, we can gain insights into our life patterns and make adjustments where needed.
Just as nature transitions from the fullness of summer to the stillness of winter, we too experience seasons in our lives. These transitions, whether they are periods of growth, challenge, or rest, bring invaluable lessons. Autumn, with its cooling temperatures and waning daylight, invites us to slow down and turn inward. It is a time to evaluate our achievements and learn from our experiences.
The falling leaves remind us of the impermanence of life and the beauty of letting go. In letting go of what no longer serves us—whether it be outdated beliefs, unhelpful habits, or relationships that have run their course—we make space for new growth and opportunities. Autumn encourages us to embrace change with grace and wisdom, knowing that each season in our lives has a purpose.
In the Tao, there is a deep awareness of the interconnectedness of all things. Autumn exemplifies this interconnectedness as it reflects the natural cycle of life—birth, growth, decay, and renewal. Just as the trees release their leaves to nourish the soil, so too do our actions and choices impact the world around us. This season reminds us to be grateful for the abundance we have received and to be mindful of our impact on the planet and each other.
Autumn is also a time for restoration and self-cultivation. As nature prepares for the quiet of winter, we are encouraged to turn inward and focus on nurturing our inner world. Practices such as Qi Gong, Tai Chi, Dao-In and meditation are particularly powerful during this season. These ancient arts help us balance our energy, strengthen our bodies, and calm our minds, allowing us to harmonize with the natural rhythms of the season.
By engaging in these practices, we not only restore our vitality but also deepen our connection to the Tao—the underlying principle of the universe. This connection fosters inner peace, clarity, and resilience, helping us navigate the challenges and changes that life inevitably brings.
A Special Invitation to Retreat: Reconnecting with Nature and Self
As autumn unfolds its wisdom, I invite you to join me in a special retreat in the breathtaking Alps of Switzerland from October 24-27, 2024. This retreat will be an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, practice self-cultivation, and reflect on the deeper meanings of the season. Together, we will explore the teachings of Taoist philosophy, engage in Qi Gong, Tai Chi, Dao-In yoga and meditation, and cultivate a sense of gratitude and peace.
In the serene and majestic landscape of the Alps, we will reconnect with the natural world and with our own inner selves. This retreat will provide the space and time to restore your energy, gain clarity, and prepare for the inward journey of winter.
Let us come together to honor the wisdom of autumn, to reflect on our lives, and to cultivate the inner peace that will carry us through the seasons to come. I look forward to sharing this transformative experience with you. Space limited. Reserve yours today.
August 2024
A Path to Unity and Peace Through Spiritual Cultivation
By Dr. Mao Shing Ni
In light of the recent attempted assassination of former President Trump, a Republican presidential candidate, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment in history. This event has triggered intense emotions and divisions, highlighting the urgent need for spiritual reflection and cultivation. Through the lens of the ancient philosophy of Tao, we can explore how personal spiritual practices can help us protect our world and ourselves, and foster peace and understanding within humanity.
The Philosophy of Tao
Tao, an ancient Chinese philosophy and spiritual tradition, emphasizes living in harmony with the Tao, which can be understood as the fundamental nature of the universe. Tao teaches us to embrace simplicity, humility and compassion, promoting balance and inner peace. In times of turmoil and division, Taoist principles can guide us towards a path of spiritual cultivation and unity.
The Original Tao and Religious Divisions
Throughout Chinese history, the original teachings of the Tao have often been misinterpreted and incorporated into folk religions, mirroring the development of many other religions worldwide. This evolution has led to inevitable extremes and fundamentalist interpretations, which, instead of uniting humanity, have often been the root of division and hatred. Religions, ideally meant to bring people together through shared beliefs and values, frequently create divisions and conflicts.
The very nature of religious identity can foster an "us versus them" mentality, where differences in faith become sources of mistrust and hostility. Instead of fostering understanding and peace, religious differences often result in misunderstandings, prejudice and even violence. Historical and contemporary conflicts around the world underscore how deeply ingrained religious divisions can perpetuate strife rather than harmony. This pattern highlights how the distortion of spiritual teachings can lead to the very conflicts and separations they were meant to transcend.
The Integral Way
The Integral Way was founded by Ge Hong, a physician, alchemist and teacher of Tao who lived in Fourth-Century China during a time of great political and religious disunity in society. The Integral Way emphasizes adhering to the original spiritual philosophy of the Tao, focusing on the core principles of simplicity, humility and living in harmony with the natural world. This path encourages individuals to cultivate inner peace and balance, seeking wisdom and understanding through direct experience rather than dogmatic teachings.
By staying true to the essence of the Tao, practitioners avoid the pitfalls of religious evolution that often lead to division and conflict. The Integral Way invites a return to the authentic and unadulterated teachings of the Tao, promoting unity, compassion and a deep connection with the fundamental nature of the universe.
Spiritual Cultivation as Protection
Integral Way promotes inner spiritual work or cultivation for individuals, not unlike a farmer or gardener cultivating the soil to ensure abundant yield instead of external worship of a deity or a God who has the power to reward or punish based on a prescribed set of beliefs and behaviors. Through spiritual cultivation one increases one’s awareness of cycles and changes and becomes more adaptable and able to avoid pitfalls and dangers.
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Inner Peace as a Shield: According to Integral Way teachings, cultivating inner peace is the first step towards protecting ourselves and the world. When we are at peace with ourselves, we radiate calmness and stability, which can influence those around us positively. Practices such as meditation, tai chi and qi gong can help us achieve this inner peace by balancing our mind, body and spirit.
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Compassion and Understanding: The Tao encourages us to develop, first and foremost, neutrality to maintain balance and avoid extreme reactions or resistance. With clarity of mind, we can then allow our compassion and understanding towards others to emerge. By seeing beyond our differences and recognizing our shared humanity, we can create a more tolerant and accepting world.
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Acts of Kindness and Empathy: Engaging in small acts of kindness, such as helping a neighbor or supporting a friend, cultivates a spirit of generosity and compassion. By reaching across the political or religious aisle with kind words and deeds, one can bridge gaps and heal divisions, fostering a sense of community and interconnectedness. This is especially critical during times like now to prevent radical wings of each side to use the incident to foment more acts of violence and hatred.
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Simplicity and Humility: Embracing simplicity and humility allows us to focus on what truly matters. In a world often driven by materialism and ego, the Integral Way teachings remind us to prioritize inner growth and the well-being of others. This shift in perspective can reduce conflicts and promote harmonious relationships. Rather than responding to the recent incident with with fear or anger, we can view it as an opportunity to deepen our spiritual practices and contribute to healing the collective wounds. To end division and fostering unity in our world, we must start with our own self with the following:
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Personal Responsibility: Each of us has a shared responsibility to contribute to a more peaceful and tolerant world. By committing to our own spiritual growth, we set an example for others and create ripples of positive change. Taking responsibility for our thoughts, words and actions is crucial in fostering unity and ending division.
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Dialogue and Open-Mindedness: Engaging in open and respectful dialogue with those who hold different views can help us understand each other better. The Integral Way teaches us to approach conversations first with an open and neutral mind and a willingness to listen. This practice can prevent misunderstandings and build bridges of mutual respect.
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Community Engagement: Participating in community activities that promote unity and understanding can amplify our efforts. Find shared common goals and social causes where both sides can agree and work together to achieve, whether it’s through volunteering, interfaith gatherings, or simply helping victims of natural disasters, collective action strengthens the bonds that connect us.
Taoist Practices for Peace and Understanding:
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Meditation: Regular meditation helps us cultivate inner stillness and clarity. By quieting the mind, we can gain insight into our true nature and develop a compassionate outlook towards others. Learn the Eight Pillars Taoist Meditation through ITMI Institute or explore and stream a variety of meditation practices here.
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Tai Chi and Qi Gong: These physical practices harmonize the body and mind, promoting balance and inner peace. They also enhance our awareness of the interconnectedness of all life. Learn these practices with in-person classes in the LA area, or online at College of Tao or stream here.
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Mindfulness Journaling: Practicing mindfulness in our daily lives allows us to be fully present and aware of our thoughts and actions. This heightened awareness fosters empathy and understanding. One simple way to help us with mindfulness is to keep a journal. Writing down our thoughts and reflections can provide clarity and help us process our emotions. It is a powerful tool for self-discovery and personal growth. Download the mindfulness journal here.
The attempted assassination of former President Trump is a shocking reminder of the divisions within our society. However, through the practical philosophy of Tao, we can use this moment as a catalyst for spiritual reflection and action. By cultivating inner peace, compassion and understanding, we can protect ourselves and contribute to a more harmonious world. It is our shared responsibility to foster unity and end division, and through specific Taoist practices, we can bring about more peace and understanding within us and in the world.
July 2024
Healing Power of Sound
by Dr. Mao Shing Ni
Healing with sound has been used in every culture and medical tradition throughout the world. Increasingly, science is catching up and discovering the benefits of healing sounds versus sounds that makes people sick. One study published in the Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine found that an hour long sound meditation helped people reduce tension, anger, fatigue, anxiety, and depression while increasing a sense of spiritual well-being.
In contrast, studies found that chronic exposure to background noise generated from everyday appliances like refrigerator and dishwashers that are over 60 decibels for more than 6 hours a day can lead to high blood pressure, insomnia and increased risks for heart disease and stroke. Long term exposure to noise pollution may even reduce lifespan.
In the following, I discuss the positive and negative impacts of sound frequencies on health and healing.
Negative Impacts of Sound Frequencies
Noise Pollution
Long-term exposure to high levels of noise pollution can lead to various health issues, including stress, sleep disturbances, cardiovascular problems, and cognitive impairment. Chronic noise exposure can disrupt the body's natural rhythms and lead to negative physiological and psychological effects.
Disruptive Frequencies
Certain disruptive frequencies can have adverse effects on cellular function. Continuous exposure to these frequencies can imprint cells with harmful vibrations, potentially leading to metabolic disruptions and increased susceptibility to diseases.
Positive Impacts of Sound Frequencies
Stress Reduction and Emotional Well-being
Sound therapies like sound meditation using Tibetan singing bowls, gongs, and other instruments have been shown to reduce tension, anger, fatigue, anxiety, and depression while increasing a sense of spiritual well-being. These therapies leverage vibrational tactile effects that can stimulate touch fibers affecting pain perception and promoting relaxation.
Brainwave Entrainment
Binaural beats, which involve playing two slightly different frequencies in each ear, can lead to brainwave synchronization. This can induce states of deep relaxation, meditation, stress reduction, pain management, improved sleep, and enhanced learning. Different brainwaves (beta, alpha, theta, and delta) are associated with various states of alertness and consciousness, and specific frequencies can help achieve these states.
Cellular and Physiological Healing
The principle of resonance in sound healing posits that every cell emits sound frequencies and that introducing healing frequencies can re-harmonize cells disrupted by toxins, emotional trauma, or noise pollution. This can improve cellular function and communication, potentially aiding in physical healing and recovery.
Medical Applications
Acoustic signals have been used in medical settings for various purposes, including breaking up kidney stones with ultrasound and shrinking tumors. Additionally, infrasound and audible sound have been recognized for their healing properties. For example, sound-based vibration treatments have been effective in improving mobility, reducing muscle pain and stiffness, increasing blood circulation, and lowering blood pressure.
Healing Sounds from the Taoist Tradition
The Six Healing Sounds from the Taoist tradition have been practiced as part of Chinese medicine for health and healing over thousands of years. This system of healing sounds is very ancient and were taught through an oral transmission from teacher to student through the ages. The the practice of the Six healing sounds can activate corresponding Five Element organ networks, energy meridians and restore bodily functions and rebalance mental and emotional states.
For example, right now at the peak of summer which corresponds to the Fire Element and the heart organ network, we observe more vulnerability and stress on the cardiovascular system. For example overheating and dehydration can gravely impact the heart leading to swelling, bloating, heat stroke, shock and heart attack. The emotion of Fire is excitement and joy which in its extreme form can lead to hurt and panic.
The Healing sound of the Fire element directly impacting the heart is the sound of “Haaa……”. To practice, inhale deeply into your abdomen and chest and the slowly make the sound of Haaa…… with your exhalation until the end of your breath. Then begin again. Practice this for 5-10 minutes and immediately you may experience a calming effect on your nervous system as well as reducing body heat and symptoms of cardiovascular distress. Of course be sure to hydrate, supplement with electrolytes and get yourself to the doctor or ER if your symptoms persist.
Not surprisingly, research has discovered that there are five distinct centers in the brain, each devoted to a specific function in the body and generates impulses at a specific frequency based on the predominant neurotransmitter it secretes. In other words, the brain’s internal communication system—its language, is based on frequency. The Six Healing Sounds practice may lead to physiological changes through activation of these centers in the brain.
To learn more about the Six Healing Sounds, visit TaoStar for an audio download. To explore more healing sounds and other taoist meditation I invite you to sign up for the comprehensive 8-Month Course through International Taoist Meditation Institute.
June 2024
How to Moderate Potentially Harmful Impact from Solar Storms
By Dr. Mao Shing Ni
In May 2024, one of the strongest solar storms in over a decade unleashed its fury on our planet. From May 3 through May 9, 2024, NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory observed 82 notable solar flares—potent eruptions that exploded from a large sunspot group. This triggered a massive coronal mass ejection that released powerful streams of charged solar particles and electromagnetic radiation directly toward the Earth.
As the storm cloud engulfed our planet, auroras erupted across night skies in the northern hemisphere in an incredible light show visible from California to Texas. But the dazzling beauty masked potential dangers as the onslaught of solar plasma triggered geomagnetic storms and widespread radio blackouts. Satellite operators and power grid engineers went on high alert to manage escalating radiation exposure and ground-induced electrical currents.
Not surprisingly, this dramatic yang outburst from the heavens occurred during the Year of the Dragon. In the 5 Element Taoist cosmology, the Dragon is associated with the embodiment of maximum yang force and power. The sun, symbolizing the Yang principle, represents creativity, energy, and transformation. When the sun's energy surges out of balance, it disrupts the delicate harmony of the Earth's energy field and life force leading to undesirable changes.
Soar storms can have a profound impact on nature, life, and health in the following ways:
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Disrupt global weather patterns, leading to extreme weather events
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Alter Earth's magnetic field, affecting migratory patterns and navigation in animals
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Influence the growth and development of vegetation
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Interfere with communication and technology
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Affects human emotions, leading to increased anxiety, stress, and sleeplessness
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Disrupt the body's natural rhythms, potentially exacerbating health conditions
These solar phenomena have long been observed and recorded in China. From a Taoist view, these effects reflect a temporary imbalance between yin and yang caused by an excessive upswing of yang's hot and forceful qualities. While natural in an ever-changing universe, such excesses can strain life forms adapted to more moderate conditions. Even though the event was unsettling, it was also recognized as a temporary disruption that can be overcome with calm and centered presence. The storm's yang fire would eventually expend itself, and the mother universe would return to her nurturing yin rhythm.
So how can we harmonize with the Sun's rhythms and moderate the impact of solar flares? Here are a few Taoist practices to increase your yin resilience during solar storms:
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Stillness Meditation - This practice requires the mind to be in a state of calm, centered presence. From this state of yin consciousness, you become less reactive to yang forces like solar flares. Practice Symbiosis Meditation with the Moon1—which represents yin energy to counterbalance the excess yang. The analogy is the hub and spokes of a wheel. Despite the rapid movement of the spokes in the periphery, the hub in the center slowly rotates, maintaining its center at all times. Be the hub and not the spokes.
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Grounding and Earthing - Since intense solar particles enter and disrupt the Earth's magnetic field, spending time grounded to the Earth's negative ionic charge can create a protective shield. Walk barefoot, sit, or lay on grass and soil. Better yet, practice the Symbiosis Meditation with Trees2 to root deeply into the Earth’s electromagnetic core.
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Practice Heart Expansion Meditation - Cultivating an opening of your heart-centered in complete, unconditional acceptance and love starting from within your individual being to the whole of humanity and finally to the infinity of the universe helps your energy flow smoothly with cosmic influxes rather than turbulently resisting them. Download here.
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Natural Living - Solar particles can upset electromagnetic fields and electronic devices. Living with less technology and electrical exposure reduces your conductivity to disruptive currents. Turn off electronic appliances during solar storms may also prevent overload and damage to devices. When we minimize reliance on modern electronics and live naturally, we restore and increase our ability to adapt to the changing rhythms of nature.
Aligning with the ebbs and flows of the heavens is a core teaching of the Tao. By embracing the wisdom of Taoism and incorporating these practices into our daily lives, we can learn to navigate the turbulent energies of solar storms, finding harmony within the ever-changing rhythms of the natural world.
1,2 Symbiosis with Sun, Moon, North Star and Trees are part of the meditation curriculum in ITMI’s 8-months Taoist Meditation course. More info here.
May 2024
Total Solar Eclipse of 2024 and its Meaning
According to Ancient Taoism
By Dr. Mao Shing Ni
Million of Americans are expected to watch the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. Many are traveling to the path of totality, in which this eclipse runs diagonally across the country from Texas to Maine. While solar eclipses are natural phenomenons when the moon pass in front of the sun, partially or completely and as a result block out the sun; curiosity seekers have been warned by NASA to wear a protective eclipse glasses when viewing to protect against permanent eye damage.
Recently. I have fielded questions about the significance of solar eclipse, according to ancient Taoist perspective.
So here it is:
Total solar eclipses hold particular significance in Taoism, as they represent a momentary misalignment of cosmic energies. The ancient Chinese believed that heaven, earth and human are one and that various changes in heaven and nature will also be reflected in human affairs.
Total solar eclipse occurs when the sun’s yang energy is momentarily blocked by the moon’s yin energy. This disruption of normal yang energy may have more than a chilling effect on earth, leading to phenomenons in nature and human society that are greatly out of the ordinary patterns.
History informed us that China had set up an advanced astronomical observatory since ancient times and they first recorded a solar eclipse in 1948 B.C. It possessed the most complete and richest records of solar eclipses in the world numbering over 1,000 records of solar eclipses in ancient texts until the Qing Dynasty. Accordingly, in the years when solar eclipses occurred in history, major disasters often occurred before and after them; and the more consecutive times they occurred, the greater and more disasters there were.
An analysis of solar eclipses viewed in China, human events, and natural disasters revealed that in the years when solar eclipses occur in large numbers, the probability of civil unrest and war is 95%; and the probability of various natural disasters is also above 95%. Here are some examples in the last decade and all the way back to a century ago:
There were four consecutive solar eclipses from 2008 to 2012 when the Great Recession brought the world to its knees. The comparable periods in history are 1849-1857 (three times, the Taiping Rebellion, a major flood, a major earthquake, a major locust plague, and a foreign invasion), 1869-1875 (four times, a major flood, a major drought, a major plague, and a major earthquake), 1936-1943 (three times, the Sino-Japanese World War II, a major locust plague, and a major famine), and 1965-1968 (three times, the Cultural Revolution, and many major earthquakes).
In other words, while the 2024 total solar eclipse may be a curiosity, taoist wisdom is warning of social unrest, economic crisis and natural disasters like earthquakes, climate disasters like record heat and flooding. Worse, insurers are increasing pulling out of geographic markets leaving many homes uninsured or insured at astronomical and unsustainable premiums. Amidst this backdrop, here are some counsel for the Integral Way Community.
• Internal Reflection: Total solar eclipses are often seen as opportunities for deep internal reflection and contemplation. You may want to use this time to delve into spiritual practices, meditation, and self-examination about your thoughts, action and purpose.
• Energy Alignment: Practices like Qigong, Tai Chi, and meditation are utilized to balance and realign your qi with the unique cosmic forces at play during a total solar eclipse. This re-alignment is important to avoid the physical and emotional consequences of the misalignment of yin and yang energies of the universe
• Avoidance of Major Activities: Similar to partial eclipses, you may want to avoid initiating major activities or decisions during a total solar eclipse. The period is regarded as energetically sensitive, and it's preferable to maintain a state of harmony and receptivity.
• Rituals and Offerings: I would recommend that you engage in rituals or offer prayers and offerings during a total solar eclipse. These rituals are to seek blessings, protection, and spiritual insight from the celestial realms.
• Nature's Harmony: The Tao teaches us to live in harmony with nature and its cycles. Total solar eclipses serve as reminders of the dynamic interplay of cosmic forces and the interconnectedness of all life. When there’s disruption to the natural cycles, we seek to stay vigilant, adaptive and observe the natural rhythms rather than chase the eclipse for momentary pleasure
• Beginning at the hour of 12:30 pm local time in Texas, visualize the sun in your Crystal Palace of your upper dantian behind your forehead (do not gaze at the actual sun), hold your left hand in baby fist (enveloping your thumb), and draw with your right index and 3rd fingers as a sword hand the following protection and neutralizing symbols:
• 天 下 太 平
• Then draw the tai chi symbol in the sky
• Use this time until 4:40 pm local time in Maine for Solar Meditation (ITMI Level 1: symbiosis with Nature Meditation), practicing Eight Treasures Qi Gong (Move the Stars and Turning the Big Dipper, etc), harmony tai chi, ba gua cosmic tour and merry-go-round. Stay calm and serene.
In essence, total solar eclipses are viewed as powerful moments for spiritual growth, inner harmony, and opportunity for re-alignment with the Tao. Avoid chasing the eclipse and stay away from crowds. Use this time to engage in practices that are nurturing for your body, mind, and spirit in order to harmonize with the cosmic change.
April 2024
Utilizing Principles and Teachings of Taoism
in Your Everyday Life
By Dr. Mao Shing Ni
A friend, Gary, who is an avid student of the I Ching said to to me recently that the I Ching has taught him “how to read the currents when swimming across the sea!”
It is an apt metaphor for navigating the challenges and uncertainties of life which is like a vast, unpredictable ocean. Just as a swimmer must read the currents to reach their destination safely, we can learn valuable lessons from Taoism to guide us on our journey.
Wisdom of the Tao
At the heart of Tao, often translated as "the Way" or "the path," it teaches us to flow with the natural rhythms of life, like water flowing effortlessly downstream. Taoist principles remind us to embrace the currents rather than fight against them. The concept of "Wu Wei, or "effortless action," is central to Taoism. It suggests that by aligning ourselves with the natural flow of events, we can achieve harmony and balance. Similarly, we conserve energy by moving with the currents of life instead of struggling against them.
The I Ching—A Guide for Life’s Changes
The I Ching, also called The Book of Changes and The Unchanging Truth is an ancient Chinese divination classic that offers profound insights into the ebb and flow of life. Through its hexagrams and commentary, the I Ching teaches us to understand and adapt to change, much like adjusting our course based on the shifting currents.
Each hexagram in the I Ching represents a unique situation offering guidance on how to navigate challenges and seize opportunities. Just as we learn to read the currents to choose the most favorable path, consulting the I Ching helps us make wise decisions and navigate life's complexities.
Incorporate Tai Chi Principles and Practice
Tai Chi is not just a physical exercise but a holistic practice that integrates mind, body, and spirit. By practicing Tai Chi, we cultivate balance and stability. Tai Chi emphasizes grounding and balance — essential qualities for navigating choppy waters both literally and metaphorically. Through Tai Chi practice, we develop physical stability and mental clarity.
Tai Chi also encourages mindfulness and present-moment awareness. By being fully attuned to the sea's currents, Tai Chi practice can help us learn to be fully present and responsive to our surroundings.
By drawing upon the principles and teachings of Taoism and the I Ching, we can cultivate resilience, adaptability, and wisdom in the face of life's challenges. I invite you to join us in College of Tao’s April retreat in North Carolina where you can immerse yourself in the ancient wisdom of Tao, practice Tai Chi in a pristine mountain setting and learn to better navigate your life’s journey, flow with the currents, and cultivate harmony within and without as you swim across the ever-changing sea of existence.
March 2024
AI Revolution, the Five Healths
and Humanity’s Spiritual Well-being
by Dr. Mao Shing Ni
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been in the news almost daily since the release of Chat-GPT over one year ago. The rapidly developing capabilities of AI is transforming many facets of our lives with its promise of increased efficiency, productivity and convenience. Recently, the AI driven stock-market bubble and euphoria has driven the market to record heights.
However, all powerful human inventions, like nuclear energy have their dark side just as there is plenty of opportunities for misuse of AI by malevolent actors. It is crucial to understand what its capabilities are and acknowledge the areas where human elements remain irreplaceable as we employ AI to promote well-being.
In this article i will explore what AI can and cannot do across the spectrum of the Five Healths—Physical, Mental/Emotional, Relationship, Financial, and Career Health.
Physical Health
What AI Can Do: AI excels in monitoring health data, aiding in diagnostics, and recommending personalized treatment plans. Its ability to process vast amounts of information contributes to optimized healthcare intervention and guidance.
What AI Cannot Do: AI falls short in providing direct physical care and genuine emotional support. The human touch, especially energetically whether it’s through insertion of acupuncture needles or emission of qi energy and empathetic understanding in healthcare remain indispensable.
Mental and Spiritual Health
What AI Can Do: AI can analyze patterns in behavior, detect mental health conditions, and provide virtual mental health tools for support. It complements traditional mental health care by offering insights and resources. AI contributes to spiritual health by offering mindfulness and meditation apps, as well as personalized spiritual content based on individual preferences.
What AI Cannot Do: Yet, AI cannot replace the genuine empathy of human therapists or address complex emotional nuances that require a uniquely human touch in mental health support. Genuine spiritual experiences and the understanding of complex belief systems lie beyond AI's capabilities, remaining profoundly personal and uniquely human. In other words, AI cannot meditate for you nor can it perform personal cultivation.
Relationship Health
What AI Can Do: AI can analyze communication patterns, offer insights into relationships, and provide advice through relationship platforms, contributing to better understanding and communication.
What AI Cannot Do: However, forming genuine emotional connections and resolving deep interpersonal issues require the nuanced understanding and empathy that AI lacks.
Financial Health
What AI Can Do: AI supports financial health through budgeting, financial planning, and optimized investment strategies. It analyzes data to provide practical recommendations for individuals.
What AI Cannot Do: Personal financial decision-making, influenced by emotions and values, remains beyond AI's reach. It cannot address the human aspects crucial in financial choices.
Career Health
What AI Can Do: AI aids in job matching, skill development, and career guidance. It streamlines processes, helping individuals make informed decisions about their professional paths.
What AI Cannot Do: However, AI cannot navigate workplace dynamics or provide the mentorship essential for holistic career development, aspects that require human insight.
In the quest for well-being of the Five Healths in our lives, AI can be a powerful assistant, enhancing efficiency, providing insights from troves of data, and offering support across the Five Healths. However, it is essential to recognize its limitations and its role as a mere tool and not a new God to be surrendered to. It is critical that humanity recognizes the sanctity of the spirit, which is comprised of empathy, emotional and divine connection, and the multidimensional experiences of the complex human existence.
Join us at our annual spiritual well-being retreat in the mountains of North Carolina in April, 2024 as we connect with a wonderful community of gentle souls in pristine nature to share powerful practices to rejuvenate, revitalize and renew your spirit!
February 2024
The Significance of Traditions of the Chinese Lunar New Year
By Dr. Mao Shing Ni
The 2024 Chinese Lunar New Year officially starts on February 10. It is also known as the Spring Festival, a lively and profoundly meaningful celebration observed by over one billion people around the world. Imbued with tradition and cultural symbolism, this celebration holds great significance, marking the beginning of a new lunar year based on the traditional Chinese calendar. The festivities last 15 days and are filled with rituals, actions, and special foods, each with special meanings reflecting aspirations, mindset, and cultural beliefs. Click here for my 2024 astrological forecast based on the traditional Chinese calendar.
Renewal and Fresh Start
Fundamentally, Chinese New Year is the theme of renewal and fresh starts. Families gather to say goodbye to the old year, letting go of the past year’s negativities and welcoming the new one by inviting positive energy with optimism and excitement for the new year. Join us for a spiritual renewal ceremony live cast online on February 4 at 10 am. Here is the link: Annual Chinese New Year Celebration - Yo San University
Red, Red, and Red are Everywhere
Red is the prevalent color during Chinese New Year as it symbolizes joy, luck, and prosperity. Everywhere, you see homes, offices, and streets decorated with red posters adorned with calligraphy of blessings like health, good fortune, and peace. Lanterns and other ornaments attract positive and joyful energy while warding off negative, evil energy. Natural essential oil scents are also used to subtly reinforce positive Five Element energies in one’s life. These are in accordance with Feng Shui principles. Check out feng shui blessings for the new year for your home and office here.
Special Foods with Their Meanings
The family reunion dinner on New Year's Eve is a feast featuring dishes with symbolic meanings:
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A whole Fish with a head and tail represents prosperity and the proper beginning (head) and ending (tail) of a year.
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Dumplings are a prosperity symbol as they resemble the shape of ancient Chinese gold and silver ingots. They are usually filled with meat, vegetables, and shellfish.
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Sticky Rice Cakes, made from glutinous rice (contains no gluten), signify growth, progress, and the promise of a better year because, in Chinese, Nian Gao literally means reaching new heights every year.
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Oranges and their golden color symbolize abundance, wholeness, and good luck and are usually served following meals.
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Sweet glutinous Rice Balls, called Tang Yuan, are a symbol of family unity and sticky bonds. They are often eaten during the Lantern Festival, which marks the end of the Chinese New Year celebrations.
Lion and Dragon Dances
The spellbinding lion and dragon dances are essential to Chinese New Year celebrations. These performances, accompanied by the loud and rhythmic beats of drums and cymbals, are believed to bring good luck and prosperity and drive away evil spirits. Note that it is believed that the louder they are, the better to awaken the helpful spirits and ward off the negative ones.
Giving and Receiving Red Envelopes
Red envelopes, or Hong Bao, are filled with money and exchanged as gifts, especially to children. The color red and the act of giving money symbolize good luck, prosperity, and the passing of positive energy from elders to the younger generation.
Honoring Ancestors and Deities
Families pay homage to their ancestors during the New Year celebration, offering prayers and food—usually fruits and incense at family altars. Traditional rituals are performed to ensure the well-being of departed loved ones as well as the honoring of deities. Join us for the ritual here.
In summary, the Chinese Lunar New Year is a celebration that is infused with cultural traditions with deep spiritual meanings. It serves as a reminder of the importance of family, the cyclical nature of life, and the collective hope for a brighter and more prosperous future. As the Year of the Dragon unfolds, may the festivities bring happiness, health, and prosperity to all who partake in this cherished universal celebration. Gong Xi Fa Cai, Shen Xing An Kang (恭喜發財,身心安康)!!
January 2024
Dragon Arising 2024
By Dr. Mao Shing Ni
“Nothing in the world is more adaptable or flexible than water. Its gentle nature, when met with resilience and strength, proves to be a powerful force. The idea that adaptability triumphs over rigidity and flexibility prevails over hardness is widely recognized, though it is not always put into practice. As an ancient sage once wisely stated: A leader who empathizes with the challenges faced by the people is well-equipped to govern. The one who addresses crises with compassion for humanity is the ideal candidate to lead the world. Indeed, the truth often appears paradoxical."
—Chapter 78, Tao Teh Ching (edited by Dr. Mao Shing Ni)
Even though the actual Chinese New Year doesn’t begin until February 10, 2024, the wisdom of Lao Tzu flickers like a lighthouse as we sail into an uncharted year. Please join me in greeting the arrival of the Year of the Dragon, a time of transformation, growth, and renewed hope. May this celestial creature guide us toward positive developments in our lives, communities, and the world at large.
The dragon is a symbol of strength, vitality and good fortune. It invites us to embody its spirit as we navigate the currents of change. Let us, like water in the ocean adapting to the outlines of the shores, embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead with grace and wisdom.
Just as the dragon soars through the heavens, may our collective efforts elevate humanity to new heights of understanding, compassion and cooperation. Let us strive for a world where differences are celebrated, where unity prevails over division, and where the well-being of everyone is our shared responsibility.
The Tao guides us to strive for balance, harmony, and interconnectedness in our lives. As we embrace the energy of the dragon, let it ignite the flames of love, peace, and health in our lives. May our hearts be filled with kindness, our minds with clarity, and our bodies with vitality. Let us nurture ourselves within, fostering the strength and resilience needed to face the sea of change that may arise.
Each of us plays a unique and vital role in the world that we live in. I invite you to share your joys, optimism and love with others, lead with empathy and compassion and be a catalyst for a more enlightened and harmonious world.
Wishing you a New Year filled with health, happiness, prosperity, and the boundless possibilities that the dragon's spirit brings!