Heaven Earth Heart Contemplation
a Seated, Moving Form of Sheng Zhen
Beauty and love can awaken one’s consciousness.
This is the purpose of this set of movements - to sustain one in the quest for love and the search for a land of peace and tranquility.
This practice creates a heavenly environment.
The sixteen movements of Heaven Earth Heart Contemplation are typically done sitting on the floor, either cross-legged or in full or half-lotus position, but can be done on a low stool, if necessary.
These movements and their associated contemplations nourish the heart and are meant to elevate one’s consciousness to the transcendent realms, bringing one to a state of bliss. While beautiful to behold or practice, the movements have deep and mystical meanings.
The 16 movements of Heaven Earth Heart Contemplation:
Dragon Flying in the Clouds
Holy Dragon Returning to the Mountains
Cloudy Mountain Going through the Mist
Qui Er Gazing at the Moon
Union of Qi with Heaven
Holding the Lotus and Crossing the Ocean
Shadow from Buddha’s Light
Parting the Clouds and Seeing the Sun
Boat Traveling in Buddha’s Ocean
Returning to Heaven and Returning to Oneness
Returning to the Ninth Level of Heaven
Rain Shower of Apricot Blossoms
Opening and Closing of Bodhi
Qi Returns to One
Rising and Descending
Gathering Qi
Excerpt from the contemplation from Heaven Earth, sixth movement:
“Hold the lotus, and cross the ocean. The lotus in each hand points in the direction of purity and love. The ocean beneath you has both ope and suffering.
Just as the waves move up and down, so does life. As the waves of hope and suffering overlap in life, they weave together to become your fate.
The ocean here is a metaphor. Its meaning depends on which direction you are moving. Like a lantern, the pure, bight lotus in each hand show the way.”
— Sheng Zhen - A Return to Oneness
