The following article was featured in our November 2014 newsletter. It introduced the Yi Yuan Ti theory. Recently, we revisited the subject of Yi Yuan Ti in our April Explorers Class. We had a lively discussion that left most of us wanting to delve deeper. Therefore we are sharing this article again as a way of reminding all of us of the importance of this theory.
Yi Yuan Ti (YYT) is perhaps the most important theory associated with Dr. Pang’s Zhineng Qigong system. I have endeavored to explain the concepts of YYT, but as there are many levels and layers of YYT, only the basics are presented here.
Translation: The Chinese words “Yi Yuan Ti”, loosely translated, means: Yi – the mind and its activity (note: In the Chinese tradition, mind and heart are often considered as one). Yuan – origin and oneness. Ti – body. My experience is that YYT is one of those ineffable concepts that defy descriptions of the many layers and levels of universal energy, awakening, consciousness, oneness and connection with everything.
An Information Processor: We can begin by viewing YYT as a natural and open state that is spontaneously receiving, storing, processing, retrieving and transmitting information. It encompasses all contents and processes of the human brain and consciousness. It is pure experience, there is no separation between the internal and external state.
Not Limited: YYT also encompasses the entirety of the universe; it is not limited by space or time and holds all information. It is the “totality” of our intelligence, wisdom and existence combined with the functional state of our consciousness.
Energy Matrix: Correspondingly, YYT is the matrix that encompasses the primordial qi field of self while connecting with the primordial qi of the universe. Through developing consciousness we have the capacity to become one with the matrix and experience YYT. If your mind is clear enough, you can perceive the energy matrix of information. It can be said that YYT is the inner perception of the mind connecting with pure totality of information.
Perfect Reflection: One way that YYT manifests is as our true self being aware of everything simultaneously. It is a perfect, pure, tranquil and still state of our consciousness without occupation, differentiation or any kind of ownership. There is no separation between our self, heaven and earth, society and nature. It transcends our reference system and our ego. It is formless, infinitely clear and undifferentiated. Like a clear mirror it can reflect any form but is not attached to anything. YYT is a special “void like” existence that can reflect anything in the universe. But this void does not mean there is an absolute emptiness; it means it reflects everything.
“If the doors of perception were cleansed, everything would appear
to man as it is: infinite. – William Blake
Super Perception: All energy is intrinsically connected with all energy. Energy carries universal information. Awakening YYT gives us the ability to connect with the information we need in the moment, like having super perception. We are relieved of the burden of carrying knowledge because we can access information when we need it. It also allows us to see our life more clearly because we are not being influenced by ego.
Ideas emerge: Within any specific period of time, there are large amounts of information reacting and unifying with each other in YYT. As certain information arises, it becomes enhanced and then manifests as the emergence of an idea.
We need not rush to understand or experience YYT. Our ability to realize YYT develops over time and is truly only understood through direct experience. We can trust that with each day, and each practice, we will gain greater insights into the matrix of energy and our connection with it.