Talk:Mortification of the flesh/Comments
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Nor only to be found in Christian religions and their subsidiaries, self-mortification has been practiced by eastern ascetics long before the coming of Christ. Buddha himself was an ascetic early on in life but found the unbalanced nature of an ascetic life to detract from his quest for enlightenment. Daoism having taken notes from Buddhism also acknowledged the value of balance. Although Buddhism seeks enlightenment and sustainment through breathing techniques and exercises Daoism ackolwedges the value of food as medicine. Not to suggest that the two conflict but moreso that Daoism includes Buddhism in its practices. There is, however, one great notable difference in breathing technique between the two sects. Buddhists extend their abdomen when they inhale whereas the Daoists extend their abdomen on the exhale. The key difference in result is that Buddhists send more vital energy to the brain whereas Daoists build up energy in the Dantien to be later distributed moreso to the body. Daoist breathing was later adapted by monks and martial artists alike due to its pragmatic value. Buddhist breathing remains superior for such intellectual pursuits as meditation. —The preceding unsigned comment was added by 68.52.93.79 (talk • contribs) 02:55, January 27, 2007 (UTC)
