Q&A 26 on the Practice of the Four Foundations of Mindfulness

Question: Does the physical chakra diagram exist?

Answer: The body does possess chakras. Chakras are the primary points where the body’s meridians converge. I have personally experienced the sensations of qi channels passing through these chakras. Whenever qi initially passes through any part of the body, there is a corresponding reaction. The poorer one’s physical condition, the more severe the blockages become, and the more intensely one feels the sensation when qi passes through the chakras. The more obstructed the area, the harder it is for qi to pass through. The widely circulated chakra diagrams can be considered accurate.

In our practice, regardless of sect, and irrespective of whether a method is non-Buddhist, if it proves useful to us, there is no need to reject it. Other sects and traditions are not without merit; there is much benefit in learning from others' strengths to compensate for our own weaknesses. Our physical bodies share the same structure as those of non-Buddhists. Therefore, during the stage of cultivating the body, the phenomena that arise are quite similar. Even if you do not actively intend to cultivate the body but focus instead on cultivating the mind, seated meditation inherently involves physical aspects—this is unavoidable. Thus, it is worthwhile to learn some methods useful for cultivating the body, so that you are well-informed and know how to respond appropriately.

Since our bodies, the bodies of non-Buddhists, and the bodies of practitioners from any sect are identical—sharing the same structure, the same chakras, and the same pathways and modes of qi circulation—there is no need to reject non-Buddhist methods. Understanding them allows you to recognize the current state of your physical body, so that encountering issues does not lead to surprise or confusion. Non-Buddhist paths focus primarily on cultivating the body, while we focus on cultivating the mind. Yet, cultivating the mind cannot be separated from cultivating the body. By understanding the knowledge and methods related to the body’s qi channels and how to address related issues, we can better resolve our own problems. Beyond this, there is no need to concern ourselves with other matters.