You don't have to be a Buddhist to manifest the Medicine Buddha's qualities; rather, the deity represents the potential in us all to heal and be healed. While the traditional way of Medicine Buddha practice involves a three-step process (including oral transmission from a teacher, an introduction to its meaning, and an initiation), anyone can practice by chanting the Medicine Buddha mantra: Tayata Om Bhekandze Bhekandze Maha Bhekandze Randza Samungate Soha (roughly translating as "Beyond All, Auspicious One, Medicine Buddha, Greatness of Medicine Buddha, Perfectly Awakened, Dissolve in Me"). Visualizations focus on healing blue light streaming from the Buddha's heart and body, and infusing the body of oneself or someone else who is suffering and needs healing. "No one will ever be able to prove that it works, but it couldn't hurt," says Buettner with a Buddha-like smile. "It's very comforting. And I really believe that by changing your mind, the quality of your thoughts and emotions, that changes your body chemistry. And that changes your experience."
By keeping his mind free of suffering, the experience of illness for Buettner need not be a prison sentence. On the contrary, he sees it as a gift—a special time to deepen his spiritual practice, and to keep making music. "Getting the diagnosis definitely puts a fire under your butt. You realize you better do what you love, make your life count, and do things with the benefit of all other sentient beings in mind, whatever you choose to do in life. Don't wait to live. There is no time to lose."
RESOURCES
Karma Triyana Dharmachakra Monastery Kagyu.org
Menla Center for Health and Happiness Menla.org.