‧Written by Sheng-yen Lu‧
(continued from pg A7 , TBN issue # 1204)
However, unlike the hand position of the auspicious sleeping posture, we should use the right thumb and right ring finger to press lightly over the vibratory veins of the throat. Next, we should place [any of ] the fingers of our left hand lightly in front of our nostrils, without pressing against the nostrils. During sleep, it is best to close our mouth and avoid opening it or drooling. In fact, it is really a major problem to snore with our mouths open. It takes time to become accustomed to this sleeping posture. The body should be curved like a prawn, guarding over one’s essence and spirit, while the right hand guards the nerve plexus over the throat and the left hand is placed in front of the nostrils. This serves as a subtle reminder that we should not forget about breath regulation during our sleep.
According to the guidance of my guru, since dreams are greatly affected by the vibration of the throat, the nerve plexus at the throat controls the region of dream reflexes. Thus, repeated practice of this sleeping posture, which is an auspicious position, is the key to guarding one’s essence and spirit.
The second method involves praying for the blessing of the guru. Those who study and practice Mahamudra are usually guided by a guru. During the day time, we learn how to deal with the dream state while being vigilant to proper thoughts in our mind. We must recognize that the realm of the dream is illusory and unreal. We must foster strong will power to see through the true reality of dreams. Before entering into sleep, we apply the practice as transmitted by the guru by reciting “Om bo li lan ze li” (7 times) [in Sanskrit: Om Vajranjali]. Then by flicking our fingers to the four corners of the bed, we set a boundary that prevents maras from entering.
Before one goes to sleep, one can silently pray for the blessings of the guru, and visualize one’s guru and other lineage holders giving us their blessings. We vow to cultivate, attain Buddhahood and achieve control over our dreams, so that we can remain focused and clear. [In time,] our efforts will spill over into our dream state, helping us to gain self-control. All in all, those who practice this method will develop a sense of vigilance that allows them to be immediately aware when they are being deluded in the dream state and be able to recognize that it is only a dream. They will see that it is not real and see through the illusion.
The third method is concerned with performing a visualization prior to sleeping. When we go to bed, we sleep in the auspicious lion’s posture. We should visualize ourselves transforming into our principal deity that rests in a sleeping posture. Next, recite the mantra of our principal deity seven or forty-nine times using the vajra recitation approach. Then, visualize our throat chakra emitting strong red-colored rays. This powerful red light radiates towards the ten directions of the universe, completely shattering all illusory visions and manifestations.
This powerful red light also shines upon our body which glows like an illuminated buddha body. This red light will protect you while you sleep. If the practitioner can keep up with this visualization prior to sleeping, he will eventually master this practice and will no longer be deluded in the dream state. Ultimately, he can preserve his vital essence even in the dream.
(to be continued)
