As of yesterday, I have begun a program of observing the energetic qualities of each day, based upon the information given in chapter 66 of the su wen.
This ‘energy almanac’ as also known in Chinese Astrology as the ‘Four Pillars’ or the ‘Eight Characters’. It is based upon the combination of the ten Heavenly Stems and the twelve Earthly Branches. The descriptions of these are given in this chapter. There are 60 combinations.
My own doctor/mentor (who is a Daoist) incorporates this cycle into his own practice, in so far as he brings together his observations of nature, and his observations of his clients’ health. He tells me that there is also a system of acupuncture associated with all this too.
Yesterday was the first day of the cycle: jia-zi – yang wood/water, which amongst other things is a good day for spiritual cultivation. The energy of this day is about the absorption of vital energy (water) and then using that energy to help a sprout break through the surface (wood); thus clearly a quality of yang.
Today is actually yi-chou – yin wood/earth. It’s still early in the day for me to have come to a picture of what this is about.
I am hoping that learning about these macrocosmic influences, and observing how they affect me (the microcosm) will assist me in learning the subtle, energetic aspects of Chinese Medicine. So, no more geeking on the computer – its time to hit the outer world and do some exercises….
