Preface
Falun Gong (also called Falun Dafa) is a powerful, holistic practice that cultivates the mind, body, and spirit. It's origins lie in antiquity. As a form of traditional Chinese qigong, Falun Gong was for many centuries passed down in lineage fashion from teacher to disciple, unknown to the general public. In 1992 that would change. For in May of that year, Mr. Li Hongzhi, the practice's master, brought Falun Gong to the general public in northeastern China. It was time for the world to enjoy the profound benefits of this practice.
The practice of Falun Gong is based on the principles of the universe: Truthfulness, Compassion, and Tolerance. Falun Gong's effectiveness in improving people's health and morality led the practice to spread--primarily by word of mouth--around the globe to over 40 countries in less than a decade. Since 1992 over one hundred million people have come to practice Falun Gong. They are from all walks of life and every imaginable cultural background. The major Falun Gong book, Zhuan Falun, has been translated into over a dozen languages and sold tens of millions of copies. The world has quickly come to know the goodness of Falun Gong.
Falun Gong has five exercises that facilitate deep transformation of mind and body. They are simple, easy to learn, and enjoyable to perform. What's more, they suit most people's busy lifestyles well, for the exercises can be done anywhere, anytime, and for any length of time. The movements help to quickly open the body's energy channels, and enable subtle energy to circulate smoothly throughout the body. Regular performance of the exercises typically results in stress relief, better energy, health improvements, emotional balance, better sleep, improved immune function, and increased fitness. The exercises are always taught by volunteers without charge and are open to anyone interested.
The practice of Falun Gong is much more than five exercises, however: it is about self-improvement. Practitioners cultivate their hearts and minds by eliminating negative "attachments" and striving to embody Truthfulness, Compassion, and Tolerance. As one's heart and mind become more pure and good, one's body undergoes proportionate changes. Mind and body are here inseparable. The principles taught by Mr. Li in his writings and lectures play a guiding role. Through their study and through performing the five exercises, one gradually assimilates one's nature to that of the universe. Spiritual enlightenment and perfect health become realizable aspirations with Falun Gong practice.
In this book you will find the personal stories of Falun Gong practitioners from many different backgrounds. These touching stories give you insight into why people practice Falun Gong, as well as how this practice has improved the quality of their lives. They even suggest how Falun Gong has enriched their lives with deeper meaning; most students of Falun Gong come to understand their life in a new light. We hope, then, that these stories might nourish your spirit and allow you to have a taste of Falun Gong. We dare say it's the next best thing to trying the practice yourself.
Translations of some key Chinese terms:
Editor's note: As this is a working draft put together under time constraints, please excuse any errors that might inconvenience your read. Thank you for your understanding.