Question asked by A.L
Dear Pastors,
Does practicing the 4 preliminaries (as explained in Cosmic Tantric) help to purify our bad karma? Also, I know that engaging in the prostation retreat means that I have to do the prayers and a minimum of 3 prostrations daily. If I am unwell/sick, is it okay to recite the prayers in bed but do the prostrations in front of the altar? I know this question sounds silly but I would like to obtain as much information I can prior to engaging in the retreat without making mistakes. Thank You
Dear A.L
Yes, preliminary practices combines purification and also accumulation of merits. I know of very old monks who continues doing prostrations of 100 daily eventhough they have long completed their preliminaries.
It is important to continue with the 3 prostrations/day to the best of your abilities. Yes, no problem to do the prayers on your bed.
Dear A.L.,
Yes, the preliminary practices are to help us to gain merits and also to purify our negativities so that our mind opens up to receive blessings and wisdom.
If one is sick, and having physical difficulties, then just bowing your head will do instead of full prostration. It is about generating humility which is the important motivation here.