Five meanings that are related to mind are enumerated by Chih-i. …

With regard to the mind that contains the meaning “gushing spring” (Hsin-han Yung-ch ‘üan), Chih-i states that if one’s mind is filled with hindrances and one is not capable of perceiving the nature of all dharmas, the mind will not flow. Contemplating mind is the means to remove all hindrances, and cause mind to be transparent and filled with wisdom.
Mind as “gushing spring” is illustrated by Chih-i with reference to words, practice and doctrine. In terms of the mind that is related to gushing spring of words, this means that when one’s mind is clear, one is able to speak and debate without impediment, and one’s words flow out inexhaustibly. In terms of the mind that is related to gushing spring of practice, this means that if one does not contemplate one’s mind, practice cannot flow without any interval. Because of the contemplation, all thoughts flow out one after another, turning the six hindrances (as the opposite counterpart of the Six Perfections) over into Six Perfections (alms-giving, keeping precepts, patience, diligence, meditation, prajn͂ā), and the Six Perfections incorporate all practices. In terms of the mind that is related to gushing spring of doctrine, this refers to one’s mind contemplation as effective as a sharp hoe that is used to chop the ground, and as huge rocks and sand that function to purify water, whereby clear water flows inexhaustibly.