Sweeping

Sweeping the front porch every morning is an important cleansing ritual that prepares the ground for new energy. In some of our lives, sweeping has become an activity performed without much thought. In many cases, sweeping is a lost art, replaced by the noisy, efficient vacuum cleaner. But in several cultures and religions, sweeping the front and back porch every morning is regarded as an important cleansing ritual that prepares the ground for new energy on every level—physically, spiritually, emotionally, and mentally.
          From: Daily OM (thank you David and Susan)

I received the above quote (the Daily OM) today from a long-time T'ai Chi Chih student who received it from his fiance. He mentioned that it reminded him of the sixth and final healing sound in T'ai Chi Chih practice: Chui (kidneys). As soon as I read his comment I thought: Yes! When we perform Chui (five repetitions), it does feel like we're sweeping, cleansing, and preparing the way for something new.

During this evening's T'ai Chi Chih practice I realized that the Healing Sounds (Chui) aren't the only place in the TCC form where we experience the sensation of sweeping. Take, for example, Perpetual Motion Taffy and Passing Clouds. Though there is more of a feeling of circularity and continuity in each of these movements as compared to the execution of Chui, I also experienced a definite sense of stirring, moving, and/or activating the energy.

Huh. Food for thought. During upcoming practices I know that I will experience each of these movements with a new awareness. And who knows where that openness and exploration will lead me?