About American Mystic
Sat, Sep 5 2009 03:26
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American Mystic is an educational program founded on the notion that ancient knowledge is relevant to skill development in modern times.
Also, there is a diagrammatic map developed to reference cross-cultural knowledge, and serve as a outline to integrated performance.
Also, there is a diagrammatic map developed to reference cross-cultural knowledge, and serve as a outline to integrated performance.
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Cognitive Mapping
Sat, Sep 5 2009 03:25
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The American Mystic Mind Map - A Golden Compass
This is a 'mind map' that I developed for myself to understand cultural differences. This mind map is both a simple cross comparison of cultural symbols and a way to express the possibility of coordinating body energies.
For me this is also a roadmap to remind of the teachings of the way to enlightenment by understanding 1) the impermanence of all things within cyclic existence, 2) suffering because of the nature of dualistic existence, 3) the reality of the link between actions and their results at all levels of being, and 4) recognizing this great opportunity in human existence with the freedom to choose any way to go - but more importantly find a middle way to reach 5) the most natural state of perfection which relieves the strong notion of self and introduces a gift of light from within.
By following the appropriate steps and practicing positive actions, not only will you understand cultures better, you will understand yourself better, and go further to realize all of your relationships in a more wholesome way. Because negative actions naturally find their way back to their true origin, the real need for judgment is the personal choice to get rid of bad habits and shoo away those ill wishing spirits that seek to inhabit our mind - and then work to choose with every step - the good road.
Overview Key :
This mind map reflexs both a complex and realistic model of conscious potential. Experiential views of time and space are compactly integrated in a simple form. Three levels from top to bottom: Super-conscious, conscious, sub-conscious. Five gross worldviews: Bagua, Kabbalah, Indian, Modern, and Tribal illustrating respectively - Virtue, Knowledge, Dispassion, Sovereignty, and Kinship. The first four modes represent the eastern goals to mature and develop an enlightened existence. The fifth, kinship, having emphasis couching relationship itself. Issues of time, space, relationship, and process can be modeled - for better understanding, for a variety of scenario.
Cognitive Mapping by Dai Scott
© 2001-2009 Dai Scott
There are two basic principles which will be interwoven in this thesis which I hope to convey to the reader; the first is the principle of focus, the second is the principle of perspective. Practicing the principle of focus will help personal development of sufficient resources to quell confusion and inner turmoil. Practicing the principle of perspective will help toward building the mental skills necessary to ‘think outside the box’ – in other words, it is a tool that will help enable a person to work free of habitual thinking patterns that might otherwise lead to an encrustation in flexibility of thought.
By no means are these concepts new, however the eclectic methods I use bring together a relatively modern rendition of ancient knowledge which I hope will benefit all people - at least to some small degree. I believe that ‘Cognitive Mapping’ may become a very necessary tool for modern understanding because our age continues to see an exponential shrinkage of the globe - due to modern travel, communications, and the internet.
Sometimes I liken my personal work (of fitting myself into the modern cultural dilemma of bursting knowledge and the contraction of mental space), like being an air traffic controller on a very busy day. All of these bits and fragments of information flying around are very wonderful, but at some point I need to know what is essential to keep for myself in order to be whole, and at the same time learn to safely accommodate others who might not think ‘precisely’ the way I do. By learning a variety of thinking styles from around the globe I benefit myself, and earn a bit of understanding about others.
In addition to addressing issues for personal improvement, I believe this work has three areas of potential impact. First, as a cross-cultural reference it may benefit think tanks as a concise tool to explore many types of relationships associated to cultural affairs. Two, because it is based on templates drawn from human thought processes, I think it shows promise as an additional model toward further development of artificial intelligence. Finally, because historically early cultural training was made with real experience and thought-out education for future generations, and since the mind has the capacity to creatively handle data at amazing rates of flow - this specific preparation can provide unique insights to the effects, and management, of psycho-kinesis in high-stress decision-making occupations.
Cognitive Model
In general, the diagrams of the cognitive model from left to right represent the classical development of these ideals: Virtue, Knowledge, Dispassion, Sovereignty, and Kinship. The first four are traits, as given in eastern traditions, which represent a process of unveiling and movement toward the demonstration of a fully mature being. Kinship is a trait of traditional tribal cultures, the ability to recognize the deeper connections between you and others.
In addition to mapping gross cognitive patterns it is possible to use this model to study individual patterning and interaction with environmental factors as adaptive psychophysics.
AmericanMystic Overview
Sat, Sep 5 2009 03:24
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Welcome to the AMERICAN MYSTIC web site.
AMERICAN MYSTIC is an innovational program with an overall goal to broaden public exposure and education in key traditional cultural skills, which are very unique studies for the development of consciousness and intuitive insight.
Three primary ways of training will be presented as preliminary centering practices. They are; Siberian Drum and Dance, Himalayan Raja Yoga, and Beijing Bagua Zhang (integrated with Jun Fan Gung Fu.) These skills are all enjoyable to learn. Practice in private or with a group.
Siberian Drum and Dance is an exploration into traditional native Siberian drumming, dancing, and song used to cultivate expression, achieve balance within the body, and find harmony with forces and spirits all-about.
Himalayan Raja Yoga at the beginning level is a very simple way to clear the mind of extraneous thoughts, which the mind habitually grasps. In other words, what the mind really needs to learn is how to release its non-stop efforts. Raja yoga is basic relaxed breathing while maintaining a stable upright posture - therefore activating both sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems simultaneously.
Beijing Bagua Zhang is a Chinese Bodyguard training. At the beginning level, it is what the Chinese call a 'Chi Gung' or energy exercise. The practitioner will activate all the meridians of the body by learning ease through structured then improvisational movement. Bagua Zhang is based on the philosophy of the I-Ching - a tool commonly used for understanding pathways through life (Jun Fan Gung Fu is integrated for very particular skill development.).
Siberian Drumming, Dancing and Song.
II like this training because it gives me roots I otherwise would not have. It trains me to be authentic and that it is significant to be humble. It is the point of view of the Native Siberian peoples that human beings are just very small guests to this great house. We should repeatedly be very polite to the other peoples who dwell here- the trees, the mountains, even the rocks.
One of the facts that impressed me about the shamans and their knowledge was the high level of personal freedom to express themselves they had. Everyone is accepted as an individual with unique skills and qualities. Everyone has his or her own voice and song to sing, and everyone is encouraged. Traditional drumming rhythms are taught to bring the community together, including the ancestor spirits and the spirits of nature.
The primary focus of the media presentation will be to demonstrate traditional Siberian drum rhythms (like the bear, dog and tiger rhythms.) We will use a drumstick (called a gespoo) to strike from the front and along the rim of the drum. In this way, a whole variety of sounds can be made utilizing every detail of the drum. Instruction will include what is called a yampa, which is a belt that you tie around your waist with bells. The yampa encourages you to sway your body from side to side, and it's especially fun! In order to heal yourself, you need to have fun, and do something like make allot of noise and dance - it's simple, and it works!
Himalayan Raja Yoga
Beginning Himalayan Raja Yoga will cover diaphragmatic breathing, relaxation while prone and supine and sitting posture meditation. The technique first involves becoming aware of the breath and aware of the posture. Then there is sequential relaxation of muscle groups throughout the body. Next, a basic Mantra is kept with the rhythm of breathing. If any extraneous thought arise, it is simply observed and released. Finally, visualization is held while the Mantra is released (or with no visualization.) To reach a state of having no thoughts arising for even a few seconds is considered a great accomplishment. In other words, a person attains a state of pure conscious awareness without thought patterns occurring.
Himalayan Raja Yoga teaches personal and business skills. First, it offers a way to gain volitional control over emotional patterns. Once you realize that thought precedes emotion, you will have access to a most powerful tool. Second, and additionally, the mind is likened to a light. Untrained, it scatters its energy all about in a diffuse pattern. However when trained, can become like a laser, a powerful tool of focus that can accomplish anything.
For a basic informal foundation in authentic Raja Yoga practice - I invite people to listen to a guided meditation which goes over my process of meditation. Suggestions for advanced practice are Tantra Yoga (which deals with realizing the energies of the universe found within the body), and contemplation of Patanjali's Yoga Sutras.
I am not a guru. However, it can be an invaluable relationship to have. Locally, for exposure to a highly developed yogic tradition I encourage you to visit the Sakya Monastery of Tibetan Buddhism in Seattle. There you will find a highly qualified Guru in Tibetan practice. Sakya Monastery was built on a foundation of belief and devotion to the highest ideals anyone can aspire.) If possible attend any lecture given by Swami Veda Bharati.
Beijing Bagua Zhang
Beijing Bagua Zhang (Che-eng T'ing-Hua Bagua) Bodyguard training and Chi Gung. Bagua Zhang means eight-direction palm.
There are many rich aspects to speak of when introducing Bagua Zhang. The first that comes to my mind is its cultural heritage. Bagua Zhang is steeped in Taoist philosophy and an understanding of the cycles and rhythms of nature with which we all take part. There is a deep knowledge that what you put into the world and whatever endeavor you make, your intentions will cycle back to you. The Chinese classic book 'The Art of War' is read by many business professionals. Bagua Zhang is is another way to learn the same tactics - only this time somatically, that is, through your body.
The next feature of Bagua Zhang is the health benefit. Bagua Zhang is an internal martial art that teaches what is called 'Chi Gung', or energy exercise. Breathing with the whole body is encouraged, and this is one way it energizes. Different palm positions are taught which open energy flow through your body energy channels, what are known as meridians in Chinese medicine.
The aspect which interests most people is Bagua Zhang as self defense. Bagua Zhang is intended to be extremely effective in a variety of circumstances. I teach Bagua Zhang in a traditional fashion - making sure students understand the forms and body mechanics of Bagua before moving into application.
The nedia presentation may include basic eight direction palm, 24 movement chi gung, 64 movement one person application, traditional weapons, two person simple contact forms, and a complex two person close contact application form leading to two person free form spontaneous 'movements'.
AMERICAN MYSTIC is an innovational program with an overall goal to broaden public exposure and education in key traditional cultural skills, which are very unique studies for the development of consciousness and intuitive insight.
Three primary ways of training will be presented as preliminary centering practices. They are; Siberian Drum and Dance, Himalayan Raja Yoga, and Beijing Bagua Zhang (integrated with Jun Fan Gung Fu.) These skills are all enjoyable to learn. Practice in private or with a group.
Siberian Drum and Dance is an exploration into traditional native Siberian drumming, dancing, and song used to cultivate expression, achieve balance within the body, and find harmony with forces and spirits all-about.
Himalayan Raja Yoga at the beginning level is a very simple way to clear the mind of extraneous thoughts, which the mind habitually grasps. In other words, what the mind really needs to learn is how to release its non-stop efforts. Raja yoga is basic relaxed breathing while maintaining a stable upright posture - therefore activating both sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems simultaneously.
Beijing Bagua Zhang is a Chinese Bodyguard training. At the beginning level, it is what the Chinese call a 'Chi Gung' or energy exercise. The practitioner will activate all the meridians of the body by learning ease through structured then improvisational movement. Bagua Zhang is based on the philosophy of the I-Ching - a tool commonly used for understanding pathways through life (Jun Fan Gung Fu is integrated for very particular skill development.).
Siberian Drumming, Dancing and Song.
II like this training because it gives me roots I otherwise would not have. It trains me to be authentic and that it is significant to be humble. It is the point of view of the Native Siberian peoples that human beings are just very small guests to this great house. We should repeatedly be very polite to the other peoples who dwell here- the trees, the mountains, even the rocks.
One of the facts that impressed me about the shamans and their knowledge was the high level of personal freedom to express themselves they had. Everyone is accepted as an individual with unique skills and qualities. Everyone has his or her own voice and song to sing, and everyone is encouraged. Traditional drumming rhythms are taught to bring the community together, including the ancestor spirits and the spirits of nature.
The primary focus of the media presentation will be to demonstrate traditional Siberian drum rhythms (like the bear, dog and tiger rhythms.) We will use a drumstick (called a gespoo) to strike from the front and along the rim of the drum. In this way, a whole variety of sounds can be made utilizing every detail of the drum. Instruction will include what is called a yampa, which is a belt that you tie around your waist with bells. The yampa encourages you to sway your body from side to side, and it's especially fun! In order to heal yourself, you need to have fun, and do something like make allot of noise and dance - it's simple, and it works!
Himalayan Raja Yoga
Beginning Himalayan Raja Yoga will cover diaphragmatic breathing, relaxation while prone and supine and sitting posture meditation. The technique first involves becoming aware of the breath and aware of the posture. Then there is sequential relaxation of muscle groups throughout the body. Next, a basic Mantra is kept with the rhythm of breathing. If any extraneous thought arise, it is simply observed and released. Finally, visualization is held while the Mantra is released (or with no visualization.) To reach a state of having no thoughts arising for even a few seconds is considered a great accomplishment. In other words, a person attains a state of pure conscious awareness without thought patterns occurring.
Himalayan Raja Yoga teaches personal and business skills. First, it offers a way to gain volitional control over emotional patterns. Once you realize that thought precedes emotion, you will have access to a most powerful tool. Second, and additionally, the mind is likened to a light. Untrained, it scatters its energy all about in a diffuse pattern. However when trained, can become like a laser, a powerful tool of focus that can accomplish anything.
For a basic informal foundation in authentic Raja Yoga practice - I invite people to listen to a guided meditation which goes over my process of meditation. Suggestions for advanced practice are Tantra Yoga (which deals with realizing the energies of the universe found within the body), and contemplation of Patanjali's Yoga Sutras.
I am not a guru. However, it can be an invaluable relationship to have. Locally, for exposure to a highly developed yogic tradition I encourage you to visit the Sakya Monastery of Tibetan Buddhism in Seattle. There you will find a highly qualified Guru in Tibetan practice. Sakya Monastery was built on a foundation of belief and devotion to the highest ideals anyone can aspire.) If possible attend any lecture given by Swami Veda Bharati.
Beijing Bagua Zhang
Beijing Bagua Zhang (Che-eng T'ing-Hua Bagua) Bodyguard training and Chi Gung. Bagua Zhang means eight-direction palm.
There are many rich aspects to speak of when introducing Bagua Zhang. The first that comes to my mind is its cultural heritage. Bagua Zhang is steeped in Taoist philosophy and an understanding of the cycles and rhythms of nature with which we all take part. There is a deep knowledge that what you put into the world and whatever endeavor you make, your intentions will cycle back to you. The Chinese classic book 'The Art of War' is read by many business professionals. Bagua Zhang is is another way to learn the same tactics - only this time somatically, that is, through your body.
The next feature of Bagua Zhang is the health benefit. Bagua Zhang is an internal martial art that teaches what is called 'Chi Gung', or energy exercise. Breathing with the whole body is encouraged, and this is one way it energizes. Different palm positions are taught which open energy flow through your body energy channels, what are known as meridians in Chinese medicine.
The aspect which interests most people is Bagua Zhang as self defense. Bagua Zhang is intended to be extremely effective in a variety of circumstances. I teach Bagua Zhang in a traditional fashion - making sure students understand the forms and body mechanics of Bagua before moving into application.
The nedia presentation may include basic eight direction palm, 24 movement chi gung, 64 movement one person application, traditional weapons, two person simple contact forms, and a complex two person close contact application form leading to two person free form spontaneous 'movements'.