Finding That Motivation
Humans are rare in the animal kingdom in that they can consciously direct their sexual energy. In the absence of making a choice, sexual energy unconsciously directs us around. There is a saying that habits can be the best of slaves or the worst of masters.
Spiritual traditions, scientific research, poets, boxers, and baseball players all have practices of channeling sexual energy to higher goals. Procreation is a higher goal, of course, but there is much more ‘raw material’-energy and matter-in the body than is ever needed for child creation. A healthy male releases 250 million sperm cells, on average, during each ejaculation. Women, on average, have 300,000 eggs after puberty.
If these sperm and egg cells are used for reproduction, what can we do with all of this extra creative power? The answer is, ‘whatever we want.’ Taoist masters believe we can use the energy to achieve vitality and superb health. A regular mind can be transformed into a creative genius. An unhappy life can turn into one of joy, passion, and freedom.
The mind responds to friendships, arts, and beautiful music. It also responds to drugs, jealousy, and fear. The most powerful response, however, is love mixed with sexual energy. Taoists practices transform the body to allow this energy to flow freely. Through chi kung movements and Taoist yoga, sexual energy nourishes the organs and amplifies positive virtues that are grown through Taoist meditation. Sharing positive, loving virtues in the world is a sure-fire way to creating a peaceful and happy life.
Practices outlined in The Alchemist’s Tao Te Ching:
Transforming Your Lead Into Gold