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How does Bön view illness and healing?
In Bön, illness is viewed as a result of imbalances in the body, mind and spirit. These imbalances can be caused by various factors such as negative emotions, unhealthy lifestyle choices, and spiritual disturbances. The Bön tradition believes that illness is not just a physical ailment, but also a spiritual and emotional one.
Healing in Bön is seen as a holistic process that involves addressing all aspects of a person's being. This includes physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects. Bön practitioners believe that by treating the root cause of the illness, rather than just the symptoms, true healing can occur.
One of the key beliefs in Bön is that illness is often caused by negative emotions such as anger, jealousy, and attachment. These emotions can create blockages in the body's energy channels, known as 'lung' in Bön. These blockages can lead to physical and mental health issues. Therefore, in order to heal, one must work to release these negative emotions and restore balance to the body and mind.
Bön also places great emphasis on the spiritual aspect of healing. According to Bön teachings, illness can also be caused by spiritual disturbances such as negative energies and spirits. These disturbances can be addressed through various rituals and practices, such as purification ceremonies and offerings to appease the spirits.
In addition to addressing the root cause of illness, Bön also utilizes various forms of healing methods. These include herbal medicine, acupuncture, and massage therapy. Bön practitioners also use meditation and visualization techniques to promote relaxation and reduce stress, which can aid in the healing process.
Furthermore, Bön practitioners believe in the power of mantras and prayers to bring about healing. Mantras are sacred sounds or words that are chanted or recited to invoke positive energies and healing. Prayers are also used to connect with the divine and seek assistance in healing.
Overall, Bön views illness as a multi-faceted issue that requires a holistic approach to healing. By addressing the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of a person's being, Bön practitioners believe that true healing can be achieved. Through a combination of traditional healing methods and spiritual practices, Bön offers a unique and comprehensive approach to health and wellness.