Secrets of Chinese Meditation: Self-Cultivation by Mind Control As Taught in the Ch'An, Mahayana and Taoist Schools in China

by Charles Luk

The Secrets of Chinese Meditation is a classic text that presents a rare opportunity: a chance to study the ancient and original sources which are the basis for most contemporary texts on consciousness development. Lu K'uaan Yu is one of the foremost interpreters of Chinese meditation practices. This concise volume is a presentation of different methods of meditation as practiced in China, including extracts from ancient and modern classics as well as practiced and detailed suggestions for meditation. Meditation is crucial for the development of consciousness, and the Taoist art of controlling the breath is a prerequisite for training in the martial arts. The Secrets of Chinese Meditation provides students with practical instructions for controlling the breath and calming the mind the foundation of selfrealization. The way to consciousness will be different for all individuals. This classic work is a source book that encourages you to knowledgeably choose the way most useful to your chosen path.

Genres: Taoism, Buddhism, Meditation, Zen, Philosophy, Nonfiction, Spirituality

256 pages, Paperback

First published May 7, 1991

About the author

Charles Luk (Lu K'uan Yu) was a Buddhist scholar. He translated many important Buddhist texts from Chinese into English.

Reviews

[Adam]

Fantastic resource for anyone on a dharma path interested in Chinese methods of self cultivation.

Subjects covered include
The Sutangama Sutra
Ch'an
Pure Land
T'ien t'ai
Taoist Neidan Alchemy
Qigong and TCM

Unique blend of source text translation, teaching and personal experience. I found this a powerful testament to practice and paths of practice, and containing many methods which have immediate impact and yet require patient diligence. I will be continuing to utilize, particularly, the T'ien t'ai breathing and the Ch'an GREAT DOUBT practices.

[Aiste]

I think to read this book one should have way more prior knowledge on different eastern religions/philosophies, than I did. Honestly, I was completely lost at times with all the ancient texts on how to achieve enlightenment... not an easy read, nor it was a pleasure and forget about any understandable advice on how to become better at meditating...