Tummo

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Практика туммо

Ham bija tummo

A - stroke syllable used in the six yogas

Tummo (also spelled Tumo or Tum-mo) is an ancient practice from Tibetan Buddhism and Bon. The word "Tummo" is derived from the Tibetan word for "inner fire" or "fierce". It is a form of Yoga that is said to generate heat within the body, and it is closely associated with the practice of Vajrayana Buddhism. Tummo meditation is part of the Six Yogas of Naropa, a series of advanced Tibetan Buddhist tantric practices.

Overview

Tummo involves meditation, breathing techniques, and physical exercises. The practice is intended to awaken the Kundalini energy, which is believed to lie dormant at the base of the spine. By generating heat, practitioners aim to increase their spiritual awareness and gain deeper insights into the nature of reality, achieving an enlightened state. Tummo is often depicted symbolically by a fire burning in the chakra located in the lower abdomen.

Practice

The practice of Tummo is complex and requires guidance from a qualified teacher. It typically involves visualizations, breathing exercises (pranayama), and physical movements. Practitioners visualize a blazing fire at their navel, which not only generates heat throughout the body but also helps in the dissolution of the ego and the realization of emptiness.

Benefits

Practitioners of Tummo report various benefits, including improved health, increased energy and vitality, enhanced mental clarity, and a deep sense of peace and well-being. Some advanced practitioners demonstrate the ability to generate significant body heat in cold environments, a phenomenon that has attracted interest from both spiritual and scientific communities.

Scientific Research

There has been some scientific research into the physiological effects of Tummo meditation. Studies have documented increases in body temperature and changes in metabolic activity during practice, suggesting that the technique may have tangible effects on the body's energy regulation.

Cultural Significance

Tummo holds a significant place in Tibetan culture and spiritual practice. It is often associated with the image of Tibetan yogis generating enough body heat to dry wet sheets placed on their bodies while meditating in the snow. This practice demonstrates their mastery over the physical and subtle energies of the body.

Conclusion

Tummo, or the practice of inner fire meditation, remains a profound and revered technique within Tibetan Buddhism. Its benefits, both spiritual and physical, highlight the intricate connection between the mind and body and the potential for human beings to achieve extraordinary states of consciousness.