Ilchi Lee's Blog, page 4

Why Your Brain Is Smarter Than Your Smartphone

[Photo by Elisall via Envato Elements]

When we shift how we think about the brain, we unlock its creativity and wisdom and activate its natural ability to create meaningful change in our lives and the world.

We rely on our smartphones for nearly everything—but what if we gave our brain the same attention and care? In this excerpt from my upcoming book, Take Back Your Brain: Reclaiming Your Power with Brain-Centered Living, I introduce one of the book’s core concepts—an idea that may offer a new way to think about your brain, your potential, and how you live your life.

Your Brain: The Physical Gateway to the Mind’s Power

I have always believed in the immense power of the human mind to improve our lives and create a better future for the world. This belief has guided my journey to study the mind, explore its potential, and teach others how to tap into its power. Along the way, I became deeply fascinated by the brain as the physical foundation of the mind and sought practical ways to harness its capabilities effectively.

The brain is guided by the mind, which drives us to understand ourselves and shape the kind of life and world we want. Engaging the brain isn’t just about retaining information or storing knowledge—it’s about awakening the mind and using it to create real change. When we understand how the brain and the mind work together, we uncover our ability to transform our reality.

Your Brain Is Smarter Than Your Smartphone

To illustrate this relationship, I often reference the smartphones we use daily. We marvel at their features, spend hours exploring their functions, and depend on them for information and connection. Yet, how often do we devote that same level of attention to understanding and developing our brains? Imagine what we could achieve if we invested even a fraction of that energy into unlocking our brain’s potential.

This reflection inspired the concept of the BrainPhone. The BrainPhone is a natural system within the brain that connects us to its limitless possibilities. Much like a smartphone connects us to the world, the BrainPhone links us to our inner resources, such as intuition, creativity, and insight. Unlike a physical device, the BrainPhone is not something external or artificial—it’s a capability we are all born with and can activate intentionally.

The BrainPhone is already at work, influencing your life whether you realize it or not. However, by consciously activating it, you can fully harness its potential. I call this process “turning it on.” Simply put, turning on your BrainPhone means shifting your focus inward, quieting distractions, and using your brain with intention. It’s the first step toward taking control and unlocking more of your brain’s capabilities.

From Default Mode to Expansive Mode

Most of the time, we operate in what I call the brain’s “default mode,” where we react automatically to our environment. This mode helps us manage everyday tasks, but it limits our ability to see the bigger picture or access deeper insights, turning on your BrainPhone takes you out of this reactive state and into a more conscious, intentional mode of operation. It’s like saying to yourself, “I’m in charge of my brain, and I’m going to use it to create a better life.”

When you activate your BrainPhone, your brain shifts from default mode to what I call “expansive mode.” This shift is like upgrading from a flashlight to a searchlight—it allows you to see more clearly, recognize new possibilities, and make choices that align with your deeper values and goals.

Expansive mode goes beyond achieving clarity; it unlocks the brain’s ability to think creatively, solve complex problems, and connect with a greater sense of purpose. In this state, the brain isn’t just reacting to circumstances; it becomes a tool for intentional living, guiding you toward meaningful actions and decisions.

I also refer to this expansive mode as the brain’s “spiritual mode” because it connects us to something greater than ourselves. In this mode, the brain quiets the noise of external distractions and taps into inner wisdom, universal truths, and a deeper sense of purpose. It’s a state that fosters alignment with the flow of life, empowering us to live authentically and purposefully while remaining fully engaged with reality.

In spiritual mode, the BrainPhone helps us access clarity, balance, and fulfillment. It connects us with our true selves and allows us to live in harmony with our highest values. This connection empowers us to navigate life’s challenges with grace and to build a life that reflects our deepest aspirations.

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Future Anthropology 2: Are You Ready for Immortality?

[Photo by lucigerma via Envato Elements]

Technological advances are gradually turning immortality from fantasy to reality, but is humanity ready? We can reorient our consciousness to an eternal existence now to bring more truth and meaning into our lives.

Have you ever thought about how long you would like to live if given a choice? As I’ve gotten older, I’ve naturally thought about how much time I may have left and what I could do with it. I’ve long known the benefits of defining precise goals, so rather than leaving the years of my life up to chance, I set a vision for it and set about doing whatever I could to live that long. I even wrote a book about it, I’ve Decided to Live 120 Years, as a personal guide to a long, healthy, fulfilling life. When I published that book eight years ago, the idea of living so long sounded like science fiction to many. But today, advances in science and technology are turning that possibility into reality. Some experts even predict that people alive today could live to 150 years or more.

Billions of dollars are now being invested in life extension research. Some scientists believe biological immortality—stopping or even reversing aging—could become achievable within this century. At the same time, discussions are expanding around a different kind of immortality: preserving human memories and consciousness digitally, allowing us to exist in a new form.

People are already spending millions in hopes of living just a few months or years longer. For some, that extra time could mean completing a meaningful goal or spending more precious moments with loved ones. But immortality is not just about adding time—it’s about living forever. And that raises a whole new set of questions.

Do We Want to Live Forever?

Before we celebrate the idea of eternal life, we need to ask a deeper question: Would biological immortality truly be a blessing?

The moment we ask that, we realize immortality isn’t just a scientific or medical issue—it’s a fundamental human question. It invites us to reflect on who we are and what kind of life we truly want to live. If a hundred years without meaning can feel empty, what happens when we stretch that emptiness into eternity?

It’s precisely because our time is limited that we strive to find meaning, set goals, and push through challenges. The fact that suffering has an end gives us hope. But if time becomes infinite, how will that change our sense of direction and value? What will motivate us then?

This is why preparing for immortality isn’t just about enhancing our bodies—it’s about elevating our consciousness. We must ask ourselves: Are we ready to live forever with purpose and meaning?

The Most Powerful Way to Prepare for Immortality

Most people identify themselves with their physical bodies. We believe it’s natural to be born, grow old, and die. But what if science allows us to regenerate our bodies completely, or even upload our consciousness to a digital platform? Are we truly prepared for that shift?

If we think of immortality as simply “not dying,” it could actually lead to greater confusion and suffering. Living forever with our current emotional maturity and awareness might not be a blessing at all. Without a shift in consciousness, even endless time could feel hollow.

The truth is this: our essence is already immortal. It has never changed. What gives our body life isn’t just the flesh, but the consciousness, information, and energy that flow through it. From a scientific standpoint, energy does not disappear—it only transforms. Human consciousness and energy are no different. What we call “death” is simply a transition from one form to another, not the end of existence.

When we truly accept this, our relationship with aging and death begins to shift. We no longer fear wrinkles or physical decline. Death becomes not an end, but a transformation. What matters most is not how much time we have, but how we live each moment—with awareness and intention.

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When Immortality Becomes a Blessing

We spend so much energy preserving and protecting our bodies. But our bodies are not who we are—they are the vehicles for our purpose. That doesn’t mean we should neglect them. Rather, we can honor our bodies as sacred tools for experiencing and expressing life. Just as we eventually replace an old car, our bodies may change—but our essence remains.

Even if science makes biological immortality possible, it won’t guarantee happiness. Without a shift in consciousness, it could lead to anxiety, boredom, competition, and disconnection. If we continue to see ourselves only as material beings, immortality might become another form of obsession—something to control, hoard, or fear.

If life extension is available only to a few, it could deepen inequality and social conflict. And if our identity remains tied to time and space, infinite time may bring not fulfillment, but a deeper sense of disorientation and emptiness.

The only way to truly prepare for the age of immortality is to recognize that we are already eternal. Once we accept that, we can begin to live with greater clarity and responsibility—not just waiting for the future, but shaping it. Science can then become a tool to support our spiritual growth and collective well-being, not just our physical survival.

People often ask, “If immortality depends on future technology, what can I do now?”

And I respond this way: “Yes, the development of technology may lie in the hands of scientists. But the meaning of immortality—what we do with it, how we live it—that responsibility belongs to each and every one of us.”

Then I add: Love.

Love yourself, not just in moments of success, but also in times of doubt and difficulty. Love the people around you. Be fully present in each moment, and let gratitude rise in your heart. Share that gratitude freely.

This is what gives immortality its soul. This is what makes eternal life a blessing, not a burden. To love, to grow, to give—again and again—that may be the most meaningful thing we can do as immortal beings. And perhaps, the most beautiful thing we will continue to do for all eternity.

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4 Meridian Exercises to Support Healthy Blood Pressure

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Regular practice of meridian exercises can help relax the body, improve circulation, and support heart health, offering a natural way to complement high blood pressure management.

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a significant health concern, affecting nearly half of the adults in the United States. It increases the risk of heart disease and stroke, which are leading causes of death. Yet, only about one in four people with hypertension have it under control. While medication is often necessary, natural practices like meridian exercises can help relax the body, improve circulation, and support overall cardiovascular health.

Meridian exercises are movements designed to stimulate and open the body’s meridian system, which is a network of energy pathways connecting various organs and functions. These pathways, similar to rivers distributing water across the land, transport qi energy throughout the body. Acupressure points along these meridians serve as entry and exit points for energy, helping to regulate its flow. When energy moves freely, it nourishes the body, mind, and spirit, promoting balance and well-being. Meridian exercises incorporate stretching, breathing, and mindful awareness to encourage relaxation and optimal energy flow, making them an effective practice for supporting heart health and overall vitality.

Hypertension can manifest in symptoms such as headaches, chest tightness, shortness of breath, dizziness, and a sensation of pressure at the back of the neck. The key to self-care for high blood pressure is relaxation—reducing tension in both the mind and body. Meridian exercises, breathing techniques, and acupressure can help release energy blockages and promote circulation, allowing blood vessels to relax and function more efficiently.

Here are four simple yet effective meridian exercises that can support healthy blood pressure:

1. Circulation Exercise

Benefit: Helps release stagnant energy and enhances blood circulation, especially to the heart.

Lie on your back with your arms extended above your shoulders and your legs raised above your hips, with knees slightly bent.Relax your body and begin shaking your arms and legs rapidly, allowing the vibration to spread throughout your body.Continue for 1–2 minutes, then rest. Repeat up to five times daily.2. Stimulating the Palms and Soles

Benefit: Supports circulation by activating acupressure points in the hands and feet, which are linked to the respiratory and circulatory systems.

Palms: Find the acupressure point PC 8 (Jangshim) in the center of your palm. Press firmly with your thumb and massage this point.Soles: Bring one ankle across the opposite knee. Use a fist to gently tap the sole of your foot, focusing on the Ki 1 (Yongchun) point below the ball of the foot. Massage firmly.Sit with your spine straight, feet flat on the floor, and arms relaxed at your sides. Turn your palms downward as if they were lightly placed on armrests.Close your eyes and focus on the centers of your palms and soles. Breathe naturally and visualize energy flowing in and out of these points.Continue for 15–20 minutes, allowing relaxation to spread throughout your body.3. Acupressure for Hypertension

Benefit: Helps relieve symptoms like neck pressure, dizziness, and fatigue by stimulating key energy points.

Gently press and massage the following acupressure points:

GV 20 (Baekhwe): Top of the headGB 20 (Poongji): Base of the skullBl 10 (Chunju): Upper neckLI 11 (Gokji): Outer elbowBl 23 (Shinyu): Lower backHt 7 (Shinmoon): Inner wristCV 4 (Kwanwon): Lower abdomen

Spend a few minutes on each point, applying steady pressure while breathing deeply.

4. Posture for Strengthening the Heart Meridian

Benefit: Encourages relaxation and energy flow through the heart and digestive organs.

Lie on your back with legs extended. Raise your knees above your hips and flex your ankles to 90 degrees.Rest your hands on your lower abdomen, forming a triangle with your thumbs and index fingers.Breathe deeply, scanning your body from head to toe, noticing areas of tension.Imagine warmth melting away any blockages, like ice transforming into flowing water.Return to deep abdominal breathing, focusing on the sensation of energy flowing freely through your body.Embrace a Holistic Approach to Heart Health

By practicing these meridian exercises regularly, you can help release tension, improve circulation, and support overall heart health. While they are not a substitute for medical care, they offer a natural, complementary approach to managing high blood pressure and enhancing your well-being.

A relaxed body and mind create the ideal conditions for healthy circulation—one breath, one movement at a time.

Editor’s Note: The exercises and photos in this post came from Ilchi Lee’s book, Meridian Exercise for Self-Healing: Classified by Common Symptoms. To see more exercises for common health imbalances, check out the book here.

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Future Anthropology 1: The Boundary of Self – What Makes Me, Me?

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The upheaval in the world offers us an opportunity to consider what it really means to be human.

Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about the future of humanity. With rapid advancements in technology and the evolution of human consciousness, our future will look vastly different than it does today. We are facing more than change; we are standing at the edge of a transformation that could redefine what it means to be human. That’s why I’m starting a new series on this blog: Future Anthropology. In this series, I will explore this transformation with you.

Let’s begin with a fundamental question: What makes you, you?

Where Do You End and the World Begin?

The question, “Who am I?” has fascinated thinkers for millennia. Some of the most profound teachings in history emerged from this single, seemingly simple question. But have you ever stopped to consider it seriously for yourself? What defines you? Your thoughts, your experiences, your body? Let’s break it down.

Imagine this: I move my hand closer to you, stopping just before touching you. If I asked whether I was touching you, you would say, “No.” But the moment I make contact with your skin, your answer would change to “yes.” This simple interaction reveals something fundamental—most of us define ourselves by the boundaries of our bodies.

No matter how we describe ourselves—whether as a soul, a consciousness, or something else—our deepest sense of identity is rooted in our physical form. Think about it: everything from our awareness of existence to our shifting emotions, self-worth, gender identity, sense of security, and even fear of death stems from this bodily connection.

But what happens when that connection changes?

Thanks to technological advancements, our traditional sense of self is being challenged like never before. Artificial limbs, organ transplants, and neural implants are already transforming human bodies. Futurists like Ray Kurzweil predict that by 2030, humans could achieve immortality. How? Some believe we might reverse aging at the cellular level, others suggest replacing worn-out body parts indefinitely, and some even propose merging with machines.

Can Identity Exist Without a Body?

Try this thought experiment: if you lose a limb, are you less “you”? If your organs are replaced one by one, does your identity shift? What if you replace most of your body with artificial components—at what point do you stop being you? Instinctively, many of us feel that as long as our brains remain intact, our identity is preserved. But let’s go deeper. Is it the brain itself that defines us? Or is it something within the brain—our memories, thoughts, and self-awareness?

Imagine a future where brain mapping has been perfected, allowing all your cognitive data to be transferred to another medium. Would you still need a biological brain to be “you”? If that digital version of your mind continued to think, remember, and even interact with loved ones, would it be “you” or just a sophisticated copy?

Let’s take this even further. Imagine someone with dementia. Over time, their memories fade, and their awareness of self diminishes. Are they still the same person? This suggests that our identity is not fixed but fluid, shaped by the information we retain and process. If that’s true, then the “self” isn’t a solid entity—it’s a dynamic stream of information.

If identity is just information, then theoretically, we could preserve it indefinitely. AI and personal avatars are already capable of mimicking personalities. What if we took this a step further, uploading our consciousness into an artificial form? In a way, this would be a kind of digital immortality. Meanwhile, the biological energy that once powered our existence doesn’t just disappear—it transforms—because energy itself is immortal.

To embrace this idea, we need two significant shifts in thinking:

Realizing that “I” am not a fixed, physical entity but an evolving stream of information.Understanding that my true essence is energy—something that is already eternal.

When we adopt this perspective, we begin to see our bodies as tools rather than as our fundamental selves. We recognize that my body is not me but mine. Just as a car is something we use to move around but doesn’t define who we are, our bodies could be seen as vehicles for experience, not the essence of our identity. If this is true, then modifying or even replacing parts of our body—maybe even our entire form—becomes a practical choice rather than an existential crisis.

If we stop identifying ourselves with the body and let go of our attachment to or even obsession with the body, our concept of death also transforms. Instead of seeing it as an inevitable and terrifying end, we can view it as just another transition—one of many possible transformations.

So, what do you think? Are we truly ready to redefine what it means to be human?

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How to Apply a Win-Win Mindset to Fully Grow into Our True Selves

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Adopting a win-win mindset helps us break free from the divisive, competitive mentality of win-lose thinking, allowing us to reconnect with our true selves and create a world where everyone can thrive.

When you were growing up, you probably came across a bully or two. These were the kids that thought they could become a big shot by pushing people around or by calling them names. We all knew then that their meanness really only made them small in our eyes and that they were only bringing more misery to themselves.

Yet, when I look around at grown-ups, I see more bullies than on the playground. They are much more covert, but they are there . . . everywhere. By adulthood, of course, we have learned not to use fists, and we can remain polite even with perceived enemies (most of the time). But the bully’s mindset—the win-lose attitude—remains as an accepted “fact of life” in the mind of many adults.

Win-Win vs. Win-Lose

The inner bully wants to divide the world up into simple, dualistic categories: dumb and smart, cool and uncool, worthy and unworthy, weak and strong. All of these categories fit under the broader category of “winners and losers.” Life, in the eye of the bully, becomes about being one of the few winners who rise above the mass of losers.

It is no wonder that some children become bullies in every generation since win-lose is the lesson we tend to teach. In kindergarten, we teach about fairness and sharing and getting along with others, but what is the lesson after that, as children grow into adolescents and young adults? Just like the bully, while children are still very young, we adults start to send them messages about who is smart or dumb, or talented or not. “Life is tough, so fight hard!” we warn them as enter the “real world,” hoping that they will be among the few that rise.

The rare person with a win-win mindset sees a different possibility: a world where everyone can be nurtured and supported to be their best. This mindset is not about coddling the weak or dragging down the strong. Rather, it is about looking for the best solutions for the greatest number of people, not just for an individual. A win-win person has the foresight to know that helping others is helping themselves. They realize that there are enough resources to go around so that if one person wins, another person doesn’t have to lose; life is not a zero-sum game.

Being Widely Beneficial

In Korea, the win-win mindset is part of our founding philosophy. It is called “Hongik,” and it translates to “widely beneficial to all humanity.” Following this philosophy, we looked for ways to be useful and valuable to everyone, instead of just focusing only on our own interests. In spite of being vulnerably situated on a peninsula, our culture has survived for more than 5,000 years as a result, and in the modern era, we have grown very quickly to become an economic and cultural powerhouse, in spite of our small size.

I believe this win-win approach can be applied by individuals, too, and is actually the most natural state of the human mind and heart. Most of us, when we examine what we truly want in life, realize that we want connection to others and to know that our life has done something good for the world. But this is hard to achieve if we continue with a win-lose approach to life. In fact, cultivating a win-win mentality in yourself and others might in itself be one of the best thing you can do for our world.

First Step: Realize Our Connectedness

Although we are ultimately most responsible for ourselves, individuality is a bit of an illusion. All the choices we make and every action we take in the world has an effect on others, not just on ourselves. The earth is teaching us this lesson in no uncertain terms as we begin to see the effect of our self-centeredness, as plastics pile up in the ocean and temperatures slowly rise. Also, mental health problems, such as depression and anti-social behavior, have become widespread. Individually, our lives are so much better on the surface level as we enjoy our modern conveniences, such as disposable plastics and gas-powered transportation, but what is the cost?

The point here is not to feel guilty but rather to begin to remember our connection to others and to Earth so we can make better decisions.

Step Two: Feel Our True Selves . . . and Practice

Although there are global issues to consider, change must begin on the individual level. Day-to-day interactions are a big part of that, but we shouldn’t forget our relationship with ourselves. Many of us play a win-lose game with ourselves, telling ourselves that we don’t measure up because of the comparisons we make to others. Being better or worse in some areas of life does not add or detract from our true selves, so we can begin to love ourselves unconditionally, and then perhaps love others better, too.

If we can change our viewpoint from ego to true self in this way, we will begin to glimpse the source of our connection and the true value of every person we meet. And from that perspective, a win-win approach is completely normal and natural, the only sensible choice.

We have been trained by the ways of the world, however, to compete and to look for ways to outrun others, so I suggest being kind to ourselves when we slip back into a win-lose stance. It will be especially hard when others treat us as inferior or as unworthy, but we can take those moments as important grist for growth. We just need to keep watching ourselves and reorienting ourselves toward our center, our true selves.

This Is the Journey

What I am describing here is the defining element of the spiritual path, the journey back to our true selves. I believe that we are all here to interact with each other for that purpose. It is ultimately a path that humanity as a whole must take if we are to find a peaceful way of coexistence on this planet. So, I invite you to take that journey, starting with one step at a time.

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Trusting and Using Our Inner Divinity

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Divinity is not something outside of us—it is within, guiding us, and we can learn to trust and use it in our daily lives.

We often think of divinity as something outside ourselves—something distant, to be revered but not necessarily touched. But what if the divine was not separate from us? What if it was something we could access, use, and live by in our daily lives?

Throughout my life, I have sought to share this truth: divinity is not simply to be worshipped. It is part of us, an aspect of our own consciousness. Just as our brains send signals to move our limbs or speak our thoughts, they can also move energy and receive messages from a universal consciousness. This is not an abstract idea but a real function of the brain.

Discovering the Divinity Within

Understanding that divinity is within us is not just a philosophical idea but a vital key to navigating the world today. As the world changes at an unprecedented pace, we stand at a crossroads. With technology and globalization, we are more interconnected than ever, yet we also face challenges that threaten our harmony with ourselves, each other, and nature. If we do not want to repeat the same mistakes that have played out through history, we must look beyond our personal limitations and access a higher level of awareness.

The challenges we face today might seem overwhelming, but the answer does not lie in seeking external solutions alone. Humanity has already been given the means to manifest peace, love, and coexistence—not just for our families, our nations, or our groups, but for all beings. The wisdom of the ages tells us that we are one, not separate.

If divinity is within us, how do we access it in our daily lives? The key lies in quieting the mind and expanding our awareness beyond physical limitations. When we tap into this deeper awareness, we can use it in practical ways. We can use it to calm ourselves in moments of stress, to bring clarity when making decisions, or to strengthen our compassion in difficult situations. Through meditation and deep presence, we learn to go beyond the noise of our thoughts and connect with a greater knowing. But meditation is not limited to sitting still with our eyes closed. It is any state where we become fully present and open: when we are deeply absorbed in creative work, when we feel the flow of movement in our bodies, or when we harmonize with nature.

Returning to Our Original Nature

When we quiet the mind, we become aware of something deeper—our true spirit. Spirit is the eye that sees us clearly, the ear that hears the voice of divinity within. When we lose touch with this awareness, we fall into endless comparison, competition, and striving. We try to prove ourselves, to be “good enough.” But when we return to the zero point, the place of origin, we no longer measure ourselves against external standards. We simply are.

Then the barriers of the ego dissolve. The limits we have placed upon ourselves—”I am not strong enough,” “I am too old,” “I am not wise enough”—fall away, and we return to the infinite potential that has always been within us. When we act from this awareness, we no longer live from fear or self-doubt. We trust our instincts, speak with sincerity, and move through life with a sense of purpose.

Most people believe that the boundaries of their physical body define who they are. But what if this is only an illusion? The air we breathe is not confined to our lungs; it is part of the vast atmosphere that surrounds us. In the same way, our consciousness is not limited to the space within our skulls—it is connected to something far greater.

This is not just a concept to understand; it is a truth to be lived. We can go beyond simply reading or believing in this idea and experience it directly. It’s only through practice do we awaken to our true power. Using divinity is not about something mystical or unreachable—it is about trusting the wisdom that already exists inside us and allowing it to guide our actions every day.

Let us use the tools we have been given. Let us quiet our minds, move our bodies, and expand our awareness—not just to feel divinity, but to live by it. Let us bring its wisdom into our daily choices, use its strength to overcome limitations, and channel its love to create a world of peace, harmony, and limitless possibility.

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Chant Your Way Beyond Your Self: Flowing with the Chun Bu Kyung

[Photo modified from one by DragonImages on Envato Elements]

Chanting the Chun Bu Kyung is not about reciting words but feeling their resonance—quieting the mind, revealing clarity, and reaching beyond physical limitations.

In a world filled with endless information, expectations, and distractions, we often seek something to bring us back to ourselves—something that clears away noise, centers our awareness, and allows us to move through life with greater ease. The ancient Asian text Chun Bu Kyung offers such a path.

With only 81 characters, the Chun Bu Kyung is more than just words—it is vibration. It does not explain or instruct. Instead, it speaks directly to the essence of life, guiding us not through logic but through resonance. It is said that each of its characters carries the energy of the cosmos, encoded in sound. When spoken or sung aloud, the vibration of the words harmonizes the body, quiets the mind, and opens awareness beyond ordinary thinking.

To chant the Chun Bu Kyung is to align with its energy, to return to the source. There is no single way to chant it. It can be said fast or slow, loudly or softly, calmly or forcefully. The Chun Bu Kyung can even be sang. The most powerful way to give voice to the characters is to simply allow the sound to emerge, following our own rhythm. In this way, chanting becomes a practice of presence. It’s a way to:

quiet the mindRelease tensionexpand awarenessunleash creativityexperience our true essence.

How to Chant the Chun Bu Kyung

There is no need for elaborate preparation to chant the Chun Bu Kyung. It can be done at any time: as part of a morning practice to set the tone for the day, before bed to release mental and emotional tension, or whenever we feel the need to return to clarity.

The Chun Bu KyungFind a comfortable position. Sit cross-legged, in half lotus, or in a chair with your feet flat on the floor and your back straight.Relax your body and close your eyes. Bring your attention inward. If you are new to chanting the Chun Bu Kyung and have not yet memorized it, keep your eyes open and use the guide above. At the same time, keep some of your awareness inside your body.Allow the sound to emerge naturally. Begin chanting the Chun Bu Kyung at your own rhythm, letting your voice flow freely without force, expectation, or inhibition.Feel the vibration of the words. Rather than focusing on meaning, sense how the sound resonates in your body and mind.Continue for as long as you feel called to. Let the practice unfold naturally, without worrying about duration or perfection.

There is no “right” or “wrong” way to do this. The practice is simply about being present with the sound, allowing it to move through us and bring us into alignment with our natural state.

Click here to learn more about the Chun Bu Kyung and listen to it being chanted ►

Chanting with Vertical Vibration

For those who find stillness difficult or who want to deepen their practice, vertical vibration can be integrated into chanting. This gentle, rhythmic movement helps release tension and allows the sound of the Chun Bu Kyung to flow more freely.

How to Practice Vertical Vibration While ChantingSit comfortably in your chanting position with your back straight. Place your palms together at chest height, a little away from your body.Close your eyes and begin bouncing your torso up and down. Let your hands and head follow the movement naturally.Start chanting the Chun Bu Kyung. Let the movement and sound merge effortlessly.After a few minutes, gently stop bouncing and allow your body to move freely, following its own desires and inner flow, as well as the sound of your voice.Continue for several more minutes, then slow to stillness. Sit quietly and notice any changes in your body and mind.

This practice encourages us to let go—not only of physical tension but also of mental noise. As we bounce and chant, we gradually shift into a state of flow, where awareness expands beyond habitual thoughts and emotions.

Chun Bu Kyung for the Modern World: A Tool for Mental Clarity

We live in a time when the mind is constantly stimulated—emails, notifications, headlines, responsibilities. The weight of endless information can scatter our focus and leave us feeling drained. In such an age, chanting the Chun Bu Kyung is more relevant than ever.

A Natural Reset for the Brain
Chanting allows the mind to settle into rhythm and vibration, shifting us away from overthinking and into direct experience. This can act as a reset, helping us step out of stress and regain clarity.An Energy Practice for Intuition and Awareness
Rather than pulling us deeper into analysis, the Chun Bu Kyung brings us into alignment with a state beyond thought. Many people find that after chanting, they feel more centered, aware, expansive, and open to insights.Possible Connection to Neuroscience
Studies on chanting, sound frequencies, and brainwave states suggest that rhythmic vocalization can activate a relaxed yet focused state—similar to deep meditation. While the Chun Bu Kyung has been passed down through experience rather than scientific study, its effect may be understood in part through modern research on how sound influences brain function.A Practice for Ongoing Awareness

The Chun Bu Kyung is not something to chant once and forget. It is a living practice, something we can return to again and again. Whether we speak it in stillness or chant while moving, it offers a way to clear the mind, awaken awareness, and reconnect with the flow of life.

In the end, this is not about chanting a text but about experiencing a state—a state where the mind quiets, awareness expands, and we feel the deep, unshakable presence of our own being.

Would you like to explore this practice? The best way is simply to begin. Let the sound arise. Let the energy move. And let yourself return to what has always been there—the essence of who you truly are.

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7 Ways to Take Back Your Brain

[Photo by YuriArcursPeopleimages via Envato Elements]

By consciously directing your attention and energy with these seven practical recommendations, you can rewire your brain and move from living reactively to living with intention, purpose, and fulfillment.

In today’s world, where distractions constantly pull us in different directions, it’s easy to lose control of our most powerful tool, our brain. Instead of actively shaping our lives, we often find ourselves reacting to endless notifications, social pressures, and unconscious habits. But the good news is that we can take back our brain.

Neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to adapt and rewire, shows that we are not stuck with unhelpful habits or thought patterns. Our brains are always forming new neural connections based on what we focus on and practice. By making conscious choices about where we direct our attention, we can strengthen our focus, develop creativity, and build the inner strength needed to navigate life with clarity and purpose.

Here are seven practical ways to reclaim your focus, creativity, and personal power so you can live with greater presence, authenticity, and fulfillment.

1. Turn On Your BrainPhone

Your brain is more powerful than any smartphone. It’s your personal operating system, connecting you to intuition, creativity, and insight. But just like a phone, it only works well when it’s turned on and used with intention. Too often, we operate in default mode, reacting to whatever is happening around us instead of making conscious choices. To take back control, we need to shift into expansive mode, where we direct our energy with purpose and awareness.

How do you turn on your BrainPhone? It starts with shifting your attention inward. Most of the time, our focus is pulled outward—mindlessly scrolling, overanalyzing what others think, or getting stuck in repetitive thoughts. When you notice this happening, pause. Take a deep breath and bring your awareness back to yourself and ask, “What do I truly want to focus on right now?”

This small act of awareness is like pressing the “power button” on your BrainPhone. Instead of running on autopilot, you regain control over your awareness and energy. The more you practice redirecting your focus inward, the stronger your ability to stay present, think clearly, and create the life you truly want.

2. Train Your Brain with Brain Sports

Your brain is not a fixed structure. It’s a dynamic system that strengthens with use. That’s the foundation of Brain Sports, a concept I developed to strengthen the brain through physical, mental, and energetic exercises. Just like athletes build strength and endurance, you can train your brain to become more focused, creative, and resilient through intentional practice.

Brain Sports is about activating your BrainPhone—becoming more aware of your thoughts, emotions, and energy so you can direct them with purpose. Instead of going through daily routines on autopilot, you begin to see ordinary activities as opportunities for growth. A simple breath can reset your nervous system. A mindful stretch can shift your energy. A conversation can become a chance to practice presence and awareness.

When you adopt the Brain Sports mindset, you stop seeing obstacles as roadblocks and start seeing them as training opportunities. Whether it’s a workout, a difficult conversation, or learning a new skill, you develop the habit of approaching challenges with awareness and determination—turning everyday moments into meaningful steps toward personal growth and transformation.

3. Move Your Body

Your body and brain are deeply connected. What happens to one directly affects the other. When you sit for too long, your energy stagnates, and your mental clarity declines. But when you move your body, you wake up your brain. Physical movement increases blood flow, strengthens neural connections, and releases tension that can block your focus and creativity.

The key is to move with intention. Instead of thinking of movement only as exercise, see it as a way to activate your brain and shift your energy. Walk with awareness, paying attention to the rhythm of your breath and steps. Stretch and notice how your body feels as it opens up. Dance freely, letting go of tension and self-judgment. These simple actions help clear your mind, improve focus, and reduce stress.

Among the most effective exercises, pull-ups stand out. More than just a test of physical strength, they build mental resilience. Every time you pull yourself up, you reinforce your ability to push through resistance—not just in your body, but in your mind. The patience, effort, and persistence needed to complete even a single rep train you to overcome obstacles in all areas of life. Movement isn’t just about fitness—it’s a tool to reset your mind, build focus, and take back control.

4. Practice Meditation

Meditation is a core Brain Sports practice that helps you turn inward, regain control of your mind, and become fully present. With so many demands on your attention, meditation creates the space to reset, refocus, and reclaim your mental energy.

Many believe they don’t have time to meditate, but even a few minutes can shift your entire state of being. A simple pause to breathe, observe, and center yourself can make an immediate difference in how you think, feel, and respond to life.

Meditation also activates your BrainPhone, clearing away distractions and external noise. When your mind is still, clarity emerges. You reconnect with your inner wisdom—the part of you that instinctively knows the next step forward.

Beyond sharpening focus, meditation restores observer consciousness, allowing you to step back and witness your thoughts without being controlled by them. It also helps you reach the zero point, a state of deep balance where you feel calm, centered, and fully present. From this place of stability, you can think clearly, make better decisions, and move through life with confidence and peace.

5. Energize Your Imagination

Imagination is one of your brain’s most powerful tools—it shapes how you see the world and what you believe is possible. Every great innovator, artist, and visionary throughout history has used imagination to bring their ideas to life.

To tap into the full power of your imagination, start by tuning into your inner feelings. Ask yourself, “What do I truly want?” Instead of following external expectations, listen to what resonates deeply within you. Once you connect with your genuine desires, imagine them as already real. Don’t just see them—feel them. Experience the emotions you would have if your vision had already come true. The stronger this feeling becomes, the more it aligns your mind and energy with your goal.

Next, turn on your BrainPhone and ask, “What steps do I need to take to make this happen?” Be open to the insights and ideas that emerge. When you receive an answer, act on it. No matter how small the action, keep moving forward. Imagination alone isn’t enough, consistent action is what brings ideas into reality.

The key is to repeat this process daily: connect with your true desires, visualize success, ask for guidance, and take action. The more you practice, the more you train your brain for clarity, creativity, and unstoppable momentum.

6. Cultivate Gratitude and Positivity

Your brain thrives on what you feed it. If you constantly focus on problems, stress, or what’s missing in your life, your brain becomes wired for negativity. But if you train yourself to look for the good, your brain rewires itself for resilience, creativity, and possibility.

Gratitude isn’t just about feeling good. It physically changes your brain. Studies show that regularly practicing gratitude increases dopamine and serotonin, the neurotransmitters that boost motivation and well-being. The simple act of appreciating something, even small things like the warmth of the sun or a good conversation, shifts your mental state and improves your overall outlook.

No matter how difficult a situation may seem, there is always something positive to be found. Don’t let negative circumstances or challenges take control of your life. Someone who has taken back control of their brain knows how to find and focus on what is good, even in hard times. Practicing gratitude and positivity is about actively shaping the energy of your body, mind, and brain. When you choose gratitude, you aren’t just reacting to life, you’re creating it.

7. Reclaiming the Divinity within Your Brain

The highest function of your brain is not just intelligence or creativity; it is divinity. Within you lies an unlimited source of wisdom, love, and connection to something greater than your ordinary self. When you activate your BrainPhone, you awaken the part of you that goes beyond thoughts, emotions, and external circumstances. This is the same essence that sages, philosophers, and spiritual teachers have pointed to for centuries. It is not something outside of you—it is within you and within your brain.

When you realize that your true nature is divine, you begin to understand your real worth. You no longer define your value by what others think, what you own, or your successes and failures. Instead, you recognize that you are inherently precious, powerful, and worthy, just as you are. This realization restores a deep sense of trust, respect, and love for yourself.

But it doesn’t stop there. When you see this same divine essence in all people and all life, you naturally awaken to unconditional love—a love that isn’t based on conditions, achievements, or differences, but on the deep knowing that all life is interconnected.

When you recognize your oneness with divinity, you break free from the beliefs and habits that have kept you limited. You no longer live according to fear, doubt, or external expectations, you step into the life you truly want and begin to realize your infinite potential.

In the end, taking back your brain means reclaiming your divine nature and fully embracing your role as the creator of your life. It’s about awakening to the limitless power that has always been within you. Your brain is the key to the life you want and the future we all need. It’s time to take it back.

Editor’s Note: Ilchi Lee’s upcoming book, Take Back Your Brain: Reclaiming Your Power with Brain-Centered Living, is set to be published in April. This book explores practical ways to strengthen mental clarity, focus, and resilience through brain-centered practices. Pre-orders are now available.

 

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It’s Time to Clean . . . Our Energy

Ilchi Lee at Baby Bell Rock in Sedona, Arizona, USA

By clearing old attachments and purifying our energy, we create space to receive and harness the limitless power of divine energy—awakening clarity, balance, and the ability to manifest positive transformation for ourselves and others.

On the Lunar New Year last week, I climbed a small hill near the famous Bell Rock formation in Sedona, Arizona. There, I discovered a new energy vortex—a place of heightened spiritual connection where earth, humanity, and the divine could merge more easily. Standing in that vortex, I felt a deep confirmation of something I had already sensed: now is a time of immense energetic renewal, when pure, heavenly energy is descending to the earth.

This energy is available to us. If we open ourselves to receive it, we can use it not only to transcend our small selves—our limited thoughts, attachments, and emotional patterns—but also to create what we want and need in a limitless way, beyond what our small selves could ever achieve.

Releasing Attachments to Create Space

To truly connect with this energy, we must empty ourselves of old burdens—preconceptions, lingering emotions, and attachments that keep us stuck in repetitive patterns. These things weigh down our consciousness, cloud our perspective, and limit our ability to fully experience new energy.

When we let go of the past, we create space for something new. Pure energy and emptiness are essential for both health and spiritual growth. By diligently and consistently cleansing ourselves—releasing burdens with gratitude and joy—we cultivate Water Up, Fire Down energy circulation in our bodies. This natural flow strengthens our core, creating a foundation from which the energy of a dragon can rise. With this internal balance, spiritual awakening becomes possible.

Seeing Ourselves More Clearly

As we clear ourselves, our perception naturally shifts. Just as we see Bell Rock more clearly when we step back, we see ourselves more clearly when we cultivate a sense of detachment. If we remain entangled in emotions and attachments, our view is distorted. But when we free ourselves from these internal barriers, we gain a broader, more objective awareness of our thoughts, behaviors, and patterns.

This clarity allows us to align more easily with the universal consciousness and limitless energy that surrounds us. We become more aware of the guidance already available to us. Instead of reacting impulsively to life’s events, we can respond with wisdom, balance, and grace.

Receiving and Using Divine Energy

When we purify our energy, we become open vessels, ready to receive the bright, divine consciousness within us. This energy is not meant to remain stagnant—it is meant to flow. Once we have absorbed it, we can direct it toward healing, growth, and transformation in our lives.

With pure energy filling our bodies and minds, negativity and fear lose their power over us. We feel lighter, more connected, and more capable of manifesting positive change. And as our energy overflows, we can use it not only for ourselves but also for the world around us.

Practices for Cleansing and Brightening Our EnergyChant the Chun Bu Kyung – Discover the meaning of this ancient 81-character text and how to chant it here.Walk, smile, sing, and dance with vibrancy and joy.Train for doing pull-ups.Reach out to people and share your love.Practice the qigong postures of Longevity Qigong and Rejuvenation Qigong, and practice Creation Qigong, which involves moving the body freely and spontaneously with the flow of energy.Longevity Posture

Rejuvenation Posture

Overflowing and Sharing Our Energy

When we cultivate and amplify divine energy, we don’t just benefit ourselves—we become conduits of healing and transformation for others. We can visualize the people and goals we wish to support and send them energy. As we give, we also receive.

By keeping our energy clear, open, and flowing, we not only awaken our own potential but also contribute to the awakening of the world.

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Shape Your Destiny by Harnessing the Divine Spark in Your Brain

[Photo by Dzonsli via iStockPhoto]

Our brains hold the power to access divine consciousness, and by choosing a meaningful purpose and mastering our thoughts, we can unlock infinite creativity and co-create a better world.

Did you know that we have “heaven” in our brains? This is wisdom passed down from the ancient Korean text, Samil Shingo, and it’s also what I’ve experienced in my own awakenings through meditation. Heaven, in this sense, is not a place but a state of being. It’s the divine aspect of our individual consciousness and the universal consciousness that permeates all. We human beings experience and use divine universal consciousness through our brains. Via this inherent trait of our brains, we become intentional co-creators of our lives and of the path of the earth.

That’s why our choices matter. We have the infinite power in our brains to create to our hearts’ content. But what do our hearts want? Somewhere deep in our hearts lives a noble desire to do good for the world. This is the seed of divinity planted deep within us by the great life force that makes up everything. We seek to become better beings and work to resemble heaven because heaven, the seed of divinity, has descended and dwells in our brains.

But, when divine thoughts well up out of great life, in order for them to matter, we need the eyes to see them, the courage to acknowledge and choose them, and the will to put them into practice. By considering those thoughts precious and devoting ourselves to developing them, we can create genuine change in our lives, in our neighbors’ lives, and in the lives of humanity.

The Power of Purpose

A purpose in life acts like a directional signal for the brain. The brain processes all information according to its light. Without that light, the brain cannot help but follow its survival instincts and habits. Those who have turned on their directional signal, their purpose in life, are the masters of their brains.

A masterless brain is easily ruled by emotion and led about passively by information. When we are conscious that we are the masters of our brains, we can actively process emotion and information. We develop the insight to see a situation clearly, like when a light bulb is turned on in a dark room.

When the power of insight emerges, the master of the brain appears. The master intervenes in situations where the brain is about to process information according to primary survival instincts and habits, and enables it to make other choices.

Our Brain’s Creative Pull

Our brains can become infinitely great because heaven is within them. Our brains, if we ask, can readily do things we have never done, even things we don’t know about. Our brains have the great power to find a path where none is visible, and to make a path where none is to be found.

The body is an extension of the brain. The brain’s neural network is spread throughout the body. All the organs and cells in our bodies are connected with our brains. The mind is also an action that takes place in the brain. There is no mind without the brain. In view of this, we can say that the brain is the self.

Our brains are connected with other people, the earth, and the whole cosmos, as well as with our bodies. That’s why, when our spirits choose a vision, all our cells, the planet, and the cosmos learn of it through our brains. Then, like magic, our brains pull in all the information of the universe to achieve the vision we have chosen.

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When people have a great cause and dedicate themselves, giving everything they’ve got to achieving their purpose, heaven is moved and bestows upon them bright, powerful energy. Earth is moved, and builds for them connections that will bring happiness.

The heart that seeks to go beyond its own narrow interests to work for the greater good of other people and life—this is the most precious value of humanity, and the greatest function of the human brain.

So, we don’t need to be confined by the self we have experienced so far, the self we know. Going beyond what we’ve known and experienced, we can challenge our brains with new questions and give it new tasks—then it will begin to manifest infinite creativity.

We can invite anyone, anything, into our brains. We can encounter anyone, anything, in our brains. We might as well invite into our brains the most beautiful and bright thing in the world—the gift of the greatest vision you can choose.

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