I was wondering how many people out there meditate as part of their training. I study Cha'an and Taoism and meditate on a regular (sort of) basis. I hadn't thought to meditate before training, but I heard that a Red Lotus sifu in town has a mandatory meditation period for an hour before class. Anyone's teachers do that? Would there be a specific way to meditate that is conducive to training? I normally sit on a zafu with a candle in front of me and focus on my breath. I close my eyes most of the way bit I can still see the candle flame. I have experimented with reverse breathing and a Taoist meditation that traces the path of energy through to whole body in one breath, but I don't think I did either right. Anyway the thought occured to me after hearing about the Red Lotus guy...........

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In all situations
be aware, be mindful, and be
indomitable.
Wandering aimlessly invites attack.
But if one is attacked,
retreat three times
before retaliating.