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Thomas Cleary – The Taoist Classics
The Manuals of Taoist Sexual Practise – Talk on Supreme Guidance for the World 03

Like water, darkly pervasive, like the energies of spring and autumn, as what has gone is not perceived, one cannot take advantage thereof; as what is yet to come is unseen, we look to what it presents. Be careful! This matter of the spiritual glow lies in stopping ejaculation.

Operate the precious lock carefully, and the spiritual glow will arrive.

In general, physical cultivation calls for accumulation of vitality.

When vitality is replete, it should be spent; and when vitality is wanting, it should be replenished. Replenishment of spent vitality is done when vitality is wanting.

In this practice, sit together, with your loins, noses, and mouths close together. If you go ahead suddenly and come precipitately, you will ejaculate uselessly and your vitality will be lost. How can one stop this? Emptying and filling have normal constants; employ them carefully and do not forget them. Avoid excessive fatigue, avoid exhaustion, and your sinews and bones will be strong. To continue, swallow saliva and take in fresh air. Exhale and inhale very gently, as a rule until you feel filled. When the energy of these three in harmony peaks, the result is firmness and strength.

If you want to master this, you must pay careful attention to the instructions. By stopping the emission of semen, you can attain uncanny longevity.

After one time, your eyes and ears are bright.

A second time, and your voice is clear.

A third time, and your skin is lustrous.

A fourth time, and your spine is strengthened.

A fifth time, and your buttocks and thighs are shaped up.

A sixth time, and your urinary tract is clear.

A seventh time, and your mind is firm and strong.

An eighth time, and you are high-spirited.

A ninth time, and you harmonize with heaven and earth.

The tenth time produces the uncanny spiritual glow.