The Relationship Between Samādhi, Prajñā, and Nāḍī

It is often said that enlightenment requires the opening of the central channel, or that opening the central channel naturally leads to enlightenment. These statements are incorrect. There is no necessary connection between the opening of the central channel and the realization of the truth through enlightenment. However, this realization is not entirely unrelated to the energy channels. So, what is the relationship between the energy channels and the realization of the truth? Cultivation cannot be separated from the physical body. By making full use of the physical body and eliminating its obstructions, it becomes easier to realize the truth. Realization is the product of possessing both concentration (dhyāna) and wisdom (prajñā). The generation of concentration and wisdom relies on the harmonious balance of the four elements (earth, water, fire, wind) within the physical body. The more harmonious the four elements are, the less obstructed the physical body becomes. The stronger the concentration, the more focused the mind, the sharper the thinking power, and the greater the wisdom attained.

The movement of energy channels in the body is divided into three types: the Ren channel at the front of the body, the Du channel along the back, and the central channel running through the middle of the body from front to back. When the front Ren channel is blocked, internal organs frequently suffer from ailments and obstructions. When the mind enters meditative concentration (dhyāna), if the energy channel is blocked, pain arises in the internal organs. The mind is immediately distracted by this pain, concentration dissipates, and the practices of Chan meditation (dhyāna) and contemplation are interrupted. When the back Du channel is blocked, pain and discomfort occur throughout the back, the nape of the neck, and the top of the head. When the pain becomes severe, one exits the meditative state, and Chan meditation and contemplation are interrupted. Even if not interrupted, the dispersion of energy weakens the power of wisdom. However, back pain is easier to endure than pain in the internal organs, and it diminishes concentration less. Therefore, a blocked Du channel is preferable to a blocked Ren channel.

To enter deep concentration and achieve stable meditation, and to make contemplation and Chan meditation effective, the Ren channel must be open. It is best if the Du channel is also opened, and at the very least, it should not be severely blocked. The central channel does not need to be opened. When the mind becomes pure and one can frequently enter meditative concentration, the flow of energy channels will also become smooth, and the four elements will be relatively harmonious. Major physical ailments will be eliminated, and factors hindering meditation and contemplation will gradually diminish. When the body's energy channels are clear and unobstructed, it becomes easy to forget the body, preventing the mind from being distracted by it. At this stage, meditation deepens, and all energy can be directed towards contemplation and investigation, leading to rapid growth in wisdom.

Understanding the relationship between concentration/wisdom and the energy channels, one should strive to eliminate physical obstacles during daily cultivation practice, maintaining bodily health and ensuring the energy channels are clear and flowing. Thus, concentration and wisdom will continuously increase, ultimately leading to the realization of the truth.