Q&A on the Practice of the Four Foundations of Mindfulness 31

Question: What happens if the vital energy flow persists during meditation and remains concentrated in the head?

Answer: If the energy channels remain concentrated in the head, it indicates a temporary blockage preventing the energy from passing through completely. If there were no obstruction and the energy channels were clear, there would be no such phenomenon as "vital energy flow." When the energy channels in the head are fully opened, blood circulation improves, leading to exceptionally clear thinking, abundant energy, enhanced wisdom, and even partial opening is highly beneficial. With the energy channels cleared, the mind becomes pure, the body emits a very fragrant aroma, and one experiences joy, happiness, and freedom from worry.

When the energy cannot pass through the head, endure it if possible. If it becomes unbearable, visualize the energy exiting through the Baihui point at the crown of the head, or rise from meditation to disperse it. However, dispersing it may still cause the energy to impact the head again; only complete clearance can resolve the issue. Even if the head is not fully cleared, the vital energy may still pass through, circulating to the front Ren Mai channel, then to the Du Mai channel, and finally to the crown of the head. Once it enters the central channel and exits through the crown, all the body's energy channels will be completely opened, eliminating all physical obstacles, and the practice of meditation will proceed without hindrance. Once meditation arises and you can engage in contemplation, disregard the matter of the energy channels entirely—let it be.