Another aha moment: Yesterday one of my T'ai Chi Chih students told me that last week she finally understood what I mean when I say (over and over again), "Lead from your t'an tien."
As my student watched me move in profile, she realized that I truly meant to move from t'an tien first (she admitted that she always thought I was talking about intent rather than the actual physical reality of allowing the stomach to lead the rest of the body). Hurrah for aha moments!
The last several days I've suffered with a severe sore throat. Consequently, I'm doing daily T'ai Chi Chih AND qigong practices. Tonight my throat feels better. And, during my seated TCC practice, I felt a significant amount of chi. I'm engaged in intensive self-care (the TCC and qigong practices are key features, of course). And ... I'll see what tomorrow brings.
Friday, March 30, 2012
Remembering ... Justin
Wednesday, March 28, 2012:
In tonight's combined T'ai Chi Chih practice we formed two circles (the inner circle contained three of the continuing students and the outer circle contained six of the new students plus several more continuing students and me). It felt exciting and energizing to see so many people moving together in harmony.
Several weeks ago one of my new students unintentionally gave me a new insight into the practice. She questioned me about Light at the Top of the Head/Light at the Temples and asked: So when you do the opening and closing of the wrists, mix, and hold, then open again, is it nine and nine?
I was about to about to review with her that we open the wrists three times, mix for a count of six, then hold for a count of six, and then open the wrists three more times ... when I realized that she was absolutely correct. Once again, Justin Stone created a count of nine (twice). Between the two repetitions of opening and closing the wrists we count three (wrists opening) plus six (mixing) which equals nine. Then we count six (holding) and three (opening and closing wrists) which, again, equals nine.
After 18 years of TCC practice it's wonderful to see that I still have a-ha moments....
Thursday, March 29, 2012:
I received an email from Sr. Antonia, the guide for T'ai Chi Chih, this morning. She wrote to notify the T'ai Chi Chih community that Justin Stone, the creator of this form, died peacefully on Wednesday. He was 95-years-old. Three T'ai Chi Chih teachers were in his room when he died; they supported his dying process by practicing T'ai Chi Chih and doing seated meditation.
Justin gave us a wonderful gift through the creation of this T'ai Chi Chih practice and I am deeply grateful for the quiet, peace, and loving kindness that has entered my life as a result of commiting myself to this daily moving meditation. Thank you, Justin, whereever you are....
In tonight's combined T'ai Chi Chih practice we formed two circles (the inner circle contained three of the continuing students and the outer circle contained six of the new students plus several more continuing students and me). It felt exciting and energizing to see so many people moving together in harmony.
Several weeks ago one of my new students unintentionally gave me a new insight into the practice. She questioned me about Light at the Top of the Head/Light at the Temples and asked: So when you do the opening and closing of the wrists, mix, and hold, then open again, is it nine and nine?
I was about to about to review with her that we open the wrists three times, mix for a count of six, then hold for a count of six, and then open the wrists three more times ... when I realized that she was absolutely correct. Once again, Justin Stone created a count of nine (twice). Between the two repetitions of opening and closing the wrists we count three (wrists opening) plus six (mixing) which equals nine. Then we count six (holding) and three (opening and closing wrists) which, again, equals nine.
After 18 years of TCC practice it's wonderful to see that I still have a-ha moments....
Thursday, March 29, 2012:
I received an email from Sr. Antonia, the guide for T'ai Chi Chih, this morning. She wrote to notify the T'ai Chi Chih community that Justin Stone, the creator of this form, died peacefully on Wednesday. He was 95-years-old. Three T'ai Chi Chih teachers were in his room when he died; they supported his dying process by practicing T'ai Chi Chih and doing seated meditation.
Justin gave us a wonderful gift through the creation of this T'ai Chi Chih practice and I am deeply grateful for the quiet, peace, and loving kindness that has entered my life as a result of commiting myself to this daily moving meditation. Thank you, Justin, whereever you are....
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Back to Me
I sat in the bedroom looking out our north facing windows this morning as I did my seated T'ai Chi Chih practice. Yep. I'm still tired, but calm, quiet, and aware of the mighty wind blowing, and grateful to be sheltered from its force.
As I move through practice I absorb the silence between wind gusts, feel the energy move in my heart and torso, and, as usual, express gratitude for this practice that brings me back to the moment, back to the breath, back to the silence, back to me....
As I move through practice I absorb the silence between wind gusts, feel the energy move in my heart and torso, and, as usual, express gratitude for this practice that brings me back to the moment, back to the breath, back to the silence, back to me....
Monday, March 26, 2012
Time for Me
Whew! It was another low energy day. Unfortunately, when I'm tired it's hard for me to stay on top of my self-care, and so ... I forgot to give myself an insulin shot before breakfast and found myself with super high blood sugars before I left for work.
I simply let myself move slowly for the first few hours of work until I began to regain my energy. By mid-afternoon I felt pretty good. After I returned home I did a half-seated, half-standing T'ai Chi Chih practice during which I could easily feel the energy in my hands.
Yes! I feel better. I just need to remember to schedule time for me during this upcoming week so that the workload and Frances's campaign drive don't wear me out.
I simply let myself move slowly for the first few hours of work until I began to regain my energy. By mid-afternoon I felt pretty good. After I returned home I did a half-seated, half-standing T'ai Chi Chih practice during which I could easily feel the energy in my hands.
Yes! I feel better. I just need to remember to schedule time for me during this upcoming week so that the workload and Frances's campaign drive don't wear me out.
No Fire in the Kindle or the Body
Sunday, March 25, 2012:
Really, I tried to post a blog Sunday night using Bayfield Library's Kindle Fire but ... to no avail. I imagine it was operator error rather than equipment failure. Regardless, I was unable to get the site to load and, instead, went to sleep.
I don't remember much about Sunday other than the fact that I was so tired I could barely get my body to move. By late afternoon, after a nap and a fair amount of time spent reading, I was able to do my T'ai Chi Chih practice. My energy still lagged so I went to bed early and hoped for a better, more energetic day on Monday.
Really, I tried to post a blog Sunday night using Bayfield Library's Kindle Fire but ... to no avail. I imagine it was operator error rather than equipment failure. Regardless, I was unable to get the site to load and, instead, went to sleep.
I don't remember much about Sunday other than the fact that I was so tired I could barely get my body to move. By late afternoon, after a nap and a fair amount of time spent reading, I was able to do my T'ai Chi Chih practice. My energy still lagged so I went to bed early and hoped for a better, more energetic day on Monday.
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Healing Opportunities
Following several days of fog and cool temperatures (including this morning), our afternoon brought mostly clear skies and sunshine. I took the opportunity to practice seated T'ai Chi Chih outside on the front step with the goose and the dog standing and sitting nearby.
It was a welcome break from the politicking and strategy meetings that Frances is engaged in with her bid to run for a supervisor position on the Russell Town Board. I focused on letting the politics, the language, and the emotions wash off of me as I moved into my senses. I soaked in the warm sunshine as it touched my skin. I noticed Lucy's beauty as she gracefully extended one foot and leg and ruffled her feathers, I listened for the movement of animals in the forest, I breathed.
Now more than ever I need the still, quiet atmosphere and perspective that comes from engaging in my T'ai Chi Chih practice at least once daily. I need to wrap myself in peace and loving kindness. I need to remember that there is always an opportunity for healing and growth in the most unlikely of circumstances.
It was a welcome break from the politicking and strategy meetings that Frances is engaged in with her bid to run for a supervisor position on the Russell Town Board. I focused on letting the politics, the language, and the emotions wash off of me as I moved into my senses. I soaked in the warm sunshine as it touched my skin. I noticed Lucy's beauty as she gracefully extended one foot and leg and ruffled her feathers, I listened for the movement of animals in the forest, I breathed.
Now more than ever I need the still, quiet atmosphere and perspective that comes from engaging in my T'ai Chi Chih practice at least once daily. I need to wrap myself in peace and loving kindness. I need to remember that there is always an opportunity for healing and growth in the most unlikely of circumstances.
Friday, March 23, 2012
Flowing and Slowing
Intentionally or not, I had a split T'ai Chi Chih practice today. My first go at it occurred during my lunch break at the library. I positioned myself in front of the TV screen in the downstairs meeting room and got in ten minutes of "self reflective" practice. After work I joined the goose outside in the dripping, foggy weather and moved through the practice to the sound of large drops falling to earth.
It was a busy, productive day as I tackled projects at the library that have sat unattended for a year or more. Still, it was great to come home and immediately slow myself down to the speed of a moving meditation. The goose enjoyed the company as she submerged her beak in a puddle of water and noisily strained mud through her beak. The dog, too, engaged in doggy behaviors (i.e., eating cat poop buried in the dirt of the driveway).
Meanwhile I flowed and slowed. Now I am adequately prepared for a relaxing and relaxed Friday evening at home.
It was a busy, productive day as I tackled projects at the library that have sat unattended for a year or more. Still, it was great to come home and immediately slow myself down to the speed of a moving meditation. The goose enjoyed the company as she submerged her beak in a puddle of water and noisily strained mud through her beak. The dog, too, engaged in doggy behaviors (i.e., eating cat poop buried in the dirt of the driveway).
Meanwhile I flowed and slowed. Now I am adequately prepared for a relaxing and relaxed Friday evening at home.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Moving the Chi While Seated
This morning's T'ai Chi Chih class practice kept me going through the afternoon. Some of my longterm students are beginning to experience body changes and I found it wonderful today to observe their self-care.
One student brought her own recently purchased stool to class and, when she tired, sat for a portion of the practice. Another student snatched a nearby chair partway through practice and finished while seated. More and more, I encourage students to try the seated practice whenever they have body issues that require them to modify the traditional standing/moving practice. Why? Because it works for me.
It's interesting to note that people think it strange to do a moving meditation practice while sitting down. What I've discovered, and what I point out, is that just because you're seated doesn't mean that you're not moving.
Whenever you follow t'ai tien (your center), there's movement enough to stimulate the flow of Chi. Plus, even though you're not engaged in a full weight shift, when you watch your body from a side view (either when positioned before a mirror or a darkened window), you discover that your body is, indeed, moving forward and back.
One cautionary note: always keep in mind that you are suspended from above so that your spine remains straight and you lead from your belly instead of leading with your shoulders and/or upper body.... Ta da! The result is an enjoyable, energy-filled T'ai Chi Chih practice. (Keep in mind that it takes practice to feel totally comfortable with this new way of moving while seated just as it took practice to feel comfortable with the standing, weight-shifting form of T'ai Chi Chih.)
One student brought her own recently purchased stool to class and, when she tired, sat for a portion of the practice. Another student snatched a nearby chair partway through practice and finished while seated. More and more, I encourage students to try the seated practice whenever they have body issues that require them to modify the traditional standing/moving practice. Why? Because it works for me.
It's interesting to note that people think it strange to do a moving meditation practice while sitting down. What I've discovered, and what I point out, is that just because you're seated doesn't mean that you're not moving.
Whenever you follow t'ai tien (your center), there's movement enough to stimulate the flow of Chi. Plus, even though you're not engaged in a full weight shift, when you watch your body from a side view (either when positioned before a mirror or a darkened window), you discover that your body is, indeed, moving forward and back.
One cautionary note: always keep in mind that you are suspended from above so that your spine remains straight and you lead from your belly instead of leading with your shoulders and/or upper body.... Ta da! The result is an enjoyable, energy-filled T'ai Chi Chih practice. (Keep in mind that it takes practice to feel totally comfortable with this new way of moving while seated just as it took practice to feel comfortable with the standing, weight-shifting form of T'ai Chi Chih.)
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Always More to Learn
Tonight's class was the first time I've ever combined two T'ai Chi Chih classes with different levels of experience and ability. About half of my students from the beginning session that just ended joined my continuing class for their final four weeks of class.
I can tell that I'll be confronted with some challenges since I've never--in 15+ years of teaching--tried to bring together two different classes. I know, I know, it will be good for me. At the moment, though, I'm simply trying to figure out what to do to meet the needs of both groups.
I asked the advanced students to form a small circle in the middle with the beginning students surrounding them in an outside circle. It was a nice change and seemed to work fairly well to support the beginners who lacked experience practicing the full form in a circular formation. There was a tendency to speed up the practice so next week I may try to vary my location in the circle(s).
As with anything new, it will take some adjustments, but I believe we'll figure it out. And, as several of my continuing students mentioned after class, it's always okay to start over at the beginning of the form because (as any long-term practitioner knows), there's always more to learn....
I can tell that I'll be confronted with some challenges since I've never--in 15+ years of teaching--tried to bring together two different classes. I know, I know, it will be good for me. At the moment, though, I'm simply trying to figure out what to do to meet the needs of both groups.
I asked the advanced students to form a small circle in the middle with the beginning students surrounding them in an outside circle. It was a nice change and seemed to work fairly well to support the beginners who lacked experience practicing the full form in a circular formation. There was a tendency to speed up the practice so next week I may try to vary my location in the circle(s).
As with anything new, it will take some adjustments, but I believe we'll figure it out. And, as several of my continuing students mentioned after class, it's always okay to start over at the beginning of the form because (as any long-term practitioner knows), there's always more to learn....
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Back to Balance
It's Spring Equinox and there's no doubt about it: Spring is definitely here (at least for the moment). Yesterday I pulled the first woodtick off my body. That will be the first of many. All the creatures of the forest--and houses--are happily spending time outdoors in the warmth and sunshine.
I did my T'ai Chi Chih practice today while Frances had an important meeting with a local official and I began practice by dedicating it to the positive healing outcome of that meeting. It felt good to focus on sending loving, compassionate energy to those who were involved in the discussion.
Meanwhile the goose and chicken grazed on wee bits of green that sprouted from the earth, the dog practiced his guard/protector duties, and I breathed out body tension and allowed myself to float on my exhalations and inhalations.
It seems important right now to find any and every way to let go of the stress that is circulating through the our communities,our environment, our politics, and our personal relationships. Again, I am grateful for T'ai Chi Chih, a wonderful tool that brings me (and others I associate with) back into balance.
I did my T'ai Chi Chih practice today while Frances had an important meeting with a local official and I began practice by dedicating it to the positive healing outcome of that meeting. It felt good to focus on sending loving, compassionate energy to those who were involved in the discussion.
Meanwhile the goose and chicken grazed on wee bits of green that sprouted from the earth, the dog practiced his guard/protector duties, and I breathed out body tension and allowed myself to float on my exhalations and inhalations.
It seems important right now to find any and every way to let go of the stress that is circulating through the our communities,our environment, our politics, and our personal relationships. Again, I am grateful for T'ai Chi Chih, a wonderful tool that brings me (and others I associate with) back into balance.
Monday, March 19, 2012
Warming Up (Figuratively and Literally)
It's another unseasonably warm day. I, again, went out to the deck and practiced T'ai Chi Chih before the sun rose high enough to heat the air to uncomfortable levels (i.e., high 70s/low 80s).
It felt just right to start my day with TCC practice before I drove into the library and opened the doors wide. It's wonderful to balance my life each day as I'm reminded to float with the ebbs and flows of life's ocean currents.
And, though the woods are still starkly brown and black, bits of green are emerging from the earth. Virtually no one I talk to believes that we'll get through this spring without another snowstorm or two so I appreciate every single day of warmth and sunshine that arrives.
The plus is that it's still too early to have to deal with mosquitoes and oh, what a plus that is....
It felt just right to start my day with TCC practice before I drove into the library and opened the doors wide. It's wonderful to balance my life each day as I'm reminded to float with the ebbs and flows of life's ocean currents.
And, though the woods are still starkly brown and black, bits of green are emerging from the earth. Virtually no one I talk to believes that we'll get through this spring without another snowstorm or two so I appreciate every single day of warmth and sunshine that arrives.
The plus is that it's still too early to have to deal with mosquitoes and oh, what a plus that is....
Sunday, March 18, 2012
T'ai Chi Chih Thaw
Life is strange ... it presents us with amazing, challenging, and growth producing opportunities. They're not always pleasant. Such is the case with Town of Russell politics. We've spent a lot of time this weekend discussing the ins and outs of a recent episode in our town and, thankfully, I have my T'ai Chi Chih practice to bring me back to center.
After a day of 80 degree heat and sunshine, I moved to the deck in early evening to practice TCC, relieve my mind, and buoy my spirits. Spring peepers sang in the distance and it felt pleasant to be outside on a beautiful spring evening without having to deal with mosquitoes and biting flies.
Again, I feel restored and rejuvenated after the practice and almost ready for another week of work....
After a day of 80 degree heat and sunshine, I moved to the deck in early evening to practice TCC, relieve my mind, and buoy my spirits. Spring peepers sang in the distance and it felt pleasant to be outside on a beautiful spring evening without having to deal with mosquitoes and biting flies.
Again, I feel restored and rejuvenated after the practice and almost ready for another week of work....
Saturday, March 17, 2012
An Energy Revival
Friday, March 16, 2012:
By this morning I was so tired I wondered how I would make it through an entire day of work at the library. I managed even though I also had a headache for most of the afternoon.
When Frances picked me up at 5:00, she suggested that we attend the Catholic Church's Friday night fish fry. I declined. My mind was filled with longing for a quiet night at home. She dropped me at the door and returned to Bayfield to visit with neighbors and townspeople and eat fish.
I joined the animals outside--the weather was stunning--and practiced T'ai Chi Chih on the deck. Afterward, since Daylight Savings Time offers a longer, lighter evening, I walked down the driveway with Namaste, met Frances as she arrived home, and we both continued to walk as dusk fell.
I felt so much better and more energetic after the TCC and walk that I stayed up late to watch movies and thoroughly enjoyed the rest of the evening.
Saturday, March 17, 2012:
Another fabulous--actually too hot--day. By early afternoon the temperatures rose to 80. Frances and I ate all three meals outside on the deck (unheard of in this area of the state until two months or more from now).
An acquaintance and her two pre-teen kids stopped by and ate lunch with us. Then I was treated to an iPod demonstration with her son and fun conversation with both her children.
After a longer, hotter walk with Frances in late afternoon I returned to the deck for a T'ai Chi Chih session. It was desperately needed given recent events in town politics and, though my mind did not remain totally still and empty as I moved, I felt calmed, soothed, and uplifted.
Now I'm sitting out on the deck listening to wind chimes and watching clouds float above me. I admit: I'm suffering a huge dose of spring fever even though Spring Equinox is still four days away....
By this morning I was so tired I wondered how I would make it through an entire day of work at the library. I managed even though I also had a headache for most of the afternoon.
When Frances picked me up at 5:00, she suggested that we attend the Catholic Church's Friday night fish fry. I declined. My mind was filled with longing for a quiet night at home. She dropped me at the door and returned to Bayfield to visit with neighbors and townspeople and eat fish.
I joined the animals outside--the weather was stunning--and practiced T'ai Chi Chih on the deck. Afterward, since Daylight Savings Time offers a longer, lighter evening, I walked down the driveway with Namaste, met Frances as she arrived home, and we both continued to walk as dusk fell.
I felt so much better and more energetic after the TCC and walk that I stayed up late to watch movies and thoroughly enjoyed the rest of the evening.
Saturday, March 17, 2012:
Another fabulous--actually too hot--day. By early afternoon the temperatures rose to 80. Frances and I ate all three meals outside on the deck (unheard of in this area of the state until two months or more from now).
An acquaintance and her two pre-teen kids stopped by and ate lunch with us. Then I was treated to an iPod demonstration with her son and fun conversation with both her children.
After a longer, hotter walk with Frances in late afternoon I returned to the deck for a T'ai Chi Chih session. It was desperately needed given recent events in town politics and, though my mind did not remain totally still and empty as I moved, I felt calmed, soothed, and uplifted.
Now I'm sitting out on the deck listening to wind chimes and watching clouds float above me. I admit: I'm suffering a huge dose of spring fever even though Spring Equinox is still four days away....
Thursday, March 15, 2012
The Million Dollar Question
Wednesday, March 14, 2012:
I sped off to my T'ai Chi Chih classes after spending the day working at the library and, whew, I was tired (my students noticed too!). At the beginning of my regular weekly guided meditation, I reminded the students to notice their breath.
I continued: Gently bring your attention down ... but down to where? Since I couldn't remember my regular mantra: Bring your attention down to your neck and shoulders and allow your shoulders to drop... I substituted, Bring your attention down to ... where ever you want.
Then my students and I broke into gales of laughter. We soon regained our composure and continued on through the remainder of the meditation and full T'ai Chi Chih practice.
This is what I learned from the experience; I have changed as a result of doing a regular daily TCC practice. In the past I would likely have felt disappointed, guilty, or bad that I didn't lead the guided meditation perfectly. Now, though, I allow myself the opportunity to make mistakes. Not only that ... I actually enjoy the mistakes and laugh along with others. Yes! Perfection is out the window and I'm free to be me. What a wonderful gift and an incredible relief to not carry such an onerous burden.
Thursday, March 15, 2012:
I shared the above story with this morning's TCC class. And then we discussed the benefits we receive from our T'ai Chi Chih practices. I followed the discussion with a question: If you find yourself looking forward to this class and you realize that it makes you feel better, why don't you follow through with a daily practice of your own? That is the million dollar question.
It's obvious that we all have plenty of reasons to not commit ourselves to practices--like T'ai Chi Chih--that improve our health and mental attitude and that bring greater love and peace into our own lives and the lives of the people with whom we associate.
It's interesting to recognize these excuses, to articulate them, to challenge them, and to outwit them. For, as my T'ai Chi Ch'uan teacher reminded my class repeatedly over the years, "Your mind will always find ways to convince you to avoid your practice. What can you do to ensure that your mind doesn't win this internal struggle? Simply ... practice."
As Justin Stone has said many times over through his years of teaching and guiding others through T'ai Chi Chih moving meditation: "You can't appease your hunger by reading the menu."
Nope. And you can't get the full benefits of T'ai Chi Chih without being willing to practice.
I freely admit that I began this blog over two years ago as a way to trick my mind into doing a daily TCC practice. If I had a readership (or even the illusion of a readership), I was more likely to practice everyday because my readers had expectations of me (expectations that perhaps I was unwilling or unable to have of myself).
My strategy worked! And now I pose these questions to you ... Do you want to feel better? Do you wish to live a more peace-filled life? Are you willing to change the world by first changing yourself?
Think about it....
I sped off to my T'ai Chi Chih classes after spending the day working at the library and, whew, I was tired (my students noticed too!). At the beginning of my regular weekly guided meditation, I reminded the students to notice their breath.
I continued: Gently bring your attention down ... but down to where? Since I couldn't remember my regular mantra: Bring your attention down to your neck and shoulders and allow your shoulders to drop... I substituted, Bring your attention down to ... where ever you want.
Then my students and I broke into gales of laughter. We soon regained our composure and continued on through the remainder of the meditation and full T'ai Chi Chih practice.
This is what I learned from the experience; I have changed as a result of doing a regular daily TCC practice. In the past I would likely have felt disappointed, guilty, or bad that I didn't lead the guided meditation perfectly. Now, though, I allow myself the opportunity to make mistakes. Not only that ... I actually enjoy the mistakes and laugh along with others. Yes! Perfection is out the window and I'm free to be me. What a wonderful gift and an incredible relief to not carry such an onerous burden.
Thursday, March 15, 2012:
I shared the above story with this morning's TCC class. And then we discussed the benefits we receive from our T'ai Chi Chih practices. I followed the discussion with a question: If you find yourself looking forward to this class and you realize that it makes you feel better, why don't you follow through with a daily practice of your own? That is the million dollar question.
It's obvious that we all have plenty of reasons to not commit ourselves to practices--like T'ai Chi Chih--that improve our health and mental attitude and that bring greater love and peace into our own lives and the lives of the people with whom we associate.
It's interesting to recognize these excuses, to articulate them, to challenge them, and to outwit them. For, as my T'ai Chi Ch'uan teacher reminded my class repeatedly over the years, "Your mind will always find ways to convince you to avoid your practice. What can you do to ensure that your mind doesn't win this internal struggle? Simply ... practice."
As Justin Stone has said many times over through his years of teaching and guiding others through T'ai Chi Chih moving meditation: "You can't appease your hunger by reading the menu."
Nope. And you can't get the full benefits of T'ai Chi Chih without being willing to practice.
I freely admit that I began this blog over two years ago as a way to trick my mind into doing a daily TCC practice. If I had a readership (or even the illusion of a readership), I was more likely to practice everyday because my readers had expectations of me (expectations that perhaps I was unwilling or unable to have of myself).
My strategy worked! And now I pose these questions to you ... Do you want to feel better? Do you wish to live a more peace-filled life? Are you willing to change the world by first changing yourself?
Think about it....
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Loving Myself More
I logged onto Facebook this morning to check whether a co-worker from the library had posted any information about her current location and the status of a leather-working class she's attending in England. (She had.) Then I realized: Why am I spending time on the computer on such a beautiful, sunny, 50ish morning? It's crazy.
I soon logged off the computer, moved to the deck, and dived into a sun-warmed T'ai Chi Chih practice. What fun! Our wind chime rang gently, birds chirped and twittered, two squirrels chased, climbed, and followed each other over sun-hardened snow, and I moved softly through Rocking Motion, Bird Flaps Its Wings, . . . Light at the Top of the Head, and Passing Clouds. Oh, it felt so delightful to be One with nature.
While practicing I recalled a conversation from yesterday. A patron at the library who is also an improvisational dancer talked with me about how it feels when he moves silently with another person. It's intimate and sometimes intimidating, he remarked. I concurred. I occasionally ask my TCC students to perform Push Pull and/or Working the Pulley in pairs and I often hear them say that they don't know where to focus their attention and gaze. How do we learn to be comfortable in our own skins (especially when we're face-to-face within a foot or two of another person)?
I mentioned that I'm learning how to let go of control while I'm teaching (I've heard many TCC teachers say the same). Slowly I'm learning how to let myself be gently guided by the Chi. And, I told him, I find many other benefits--most of them subtle--from my TCC practice.
I bet you love yourself a lot more than when you started, he replied. Wow! It's true ... I do. And it took a world-wise improvisational dancer to remind me of that.
I soon logged off the computer, moved to the deck, and dived into a sun-warmed T'ai Chi Chih practice. What fun! Our wind chime rang gently, birds chirped and twittered, two squirrels chased, climbed, and followed each other over sun-hardened snow, and I moved softly through Rocking Motion, Bird Flaps Its Wings, . . . Light at the Top of the Head, and Passing Clouds. Oh, it felt so delightful to be One with nature.
While practicing I recalled a conversation from yesterday. A patron at the library who is also an improvisational dancer talked with me about how it feels when he moves silently with another person. It's intimate and sometimes intimidating, he remarked. I concurred. I occasionally ask my TCC students to perform Push Pull and/or Working the Pulley in pairs and I often hear them say that they don't know where to focus their attention and gaze. How do we learn to be comfortable in our own skins (especially when we're face-to-face within a foot or two of another person)?
I mentioned that I'm learning how to let go of control while I'm teaching (I've heard many TCC teachers say the same). Slowly I'm learning how to let myself be gently guided by the Chi. And, I told him, I find many other benefits--most of them subtle--from my TCC practice.
I bet you love yourself a lot more than when you started, he replied. Wow! It's true ... I do. And it took a world-wise improvisational dancer to remind me of that.
Monday, March 12, 2012
Ready to Go....
Today started out foggy after a night-long rain added to the humidity in the air. There is still plenty of snow covering the ground but the driveway is gradually revealing itself.
I'm lagging on this dark, dismal day. Before heading off to work I did a full, slow, quiet, peaceful T'ai Chi Chih practice while seated and I feel better for it. I don't know that the practice cured my lethargy, but it has improved my attitude: I'm ready to go....
I'm lagging on this dark, dismal day. Before heading off to work I did a full, slow, quiet, peaceful T'ai Chi Chih practice while seated and I feel better for it. I don't know that the practice cured my lethargy, but it has improved my attitude: I'm ready to go....
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Shine
Saturday, March 10, 2012:
It was a spur of the moment kind of day. My boss called to ask whether I could come in to work an hour-and-a-half later (which I did). When I drove home at the end of the afternoon, I was overcome by the beautiful, warm, sunshine-filled day and asked Frances if she was interested in taking a walk (which we did).
After I returned home I immediately launched into carrying wood into the house, and, after discovering that my blood sugars were low, popped a pizza into the oven. My T'ai Chi Chih practice was spur of the moment too. I sat down for practice while the pizza baked. When it was done, I abandoned practice to eat dinner and elevate my blood sugar levels.
Practice was short but sweet.
Sunday, March 11, 2012:
Today was another fabulous day: blue skies, sun, sun, and more sun. Frances and I sat on the deck as we ate breakfast and drank coffee. All I wanted to do was soak in sunshine. And so, that's what I did.
Late in the afternoon I returned to the deck to do my T'ai Chi Chih practice. The sun, which had earlier disappeared, reappeared and soaked me in warmth. I couldn't believe that it was possible to be outside in a t-shirt on March 11th. Believe it or not, I was.
The 54 degree weather set snow into a major melt with drops falling off the roof. The woods had a thick layer of unmelted snow covering the ground, but the atmosphere felt like spring. Birds sang. The dog, cat, goose, and chicken wandered and played and pecked at the earth. And me? I went through the TCC motions and thoroughly enjoyed myself....
It was a spur of the moment kind of day. My boss called to ask whether I could come in to work an hour-and-a-half later (which I did). When I drove home at the end of the afternoon, I was overcome by the beautiful, warm, sunshine-filled day and asked Frances if she was interested in taking a walk (which we did).
After I returned home I immediately launched into carrying wood into the house, and, after discovering that my blood sugars were low, popped a pizza into the oven. My T'ai Chi Chih practice was spur of the moment too. I sat down for practice while the pizza baked. When it was done, I abandoned practice to eat dinner and elevate my blood sugar levels.
Practice was short but sweet.
Sunday, March 11, 2012:
Today was another fabulous day: blue skies, sun, sun, and more sun. Frances and I sat on the deck as we ate breakfast and drank coffee. All I wanted to do was soak in sunshine. And so, that's what I did.
Late in the afternoon I returned to the deck to do my T'ai Chi Chih practice. The sun, which had earlier disappeared, reappeared and soaked me in warmth. I couldn't believe that it was possible to be outside in a t-shirt on March 11th. Believe it or not, I was.
The 54 degree weather set snow into a major melt with drops falling off the roof. The woods had a thick layer of unmelted snow covering the ground, but the atmosphere felt like spring. Birds sang. The dog, cat, goose, and chicken wandered and played and pecked at the earth. And me? I went through the TCC motions and thoroughly enjoyed myself....
Friday, March 9, 2012
The ABCs of Chi
Thursday, March 8, 2012:
Two students came to TCC class this morning (the remaining students are currently off traveling the country). The smaller class allowed time to refine and rework the movements which is, as we know, a constant and ongoing process that depends upon our willingness to continually strive to acquire a greater understanding of the form and the movement of the Chi.
I remember attending a teachers' certification years ago in which the trainer reminded us that we spend much of our time after we learn the basic form simply breaking bad habits we acquire during the course of our practices. That's certainly been true for me.
During our practice I noticed that both students sped ahead of me through most of the movements, a typical sign that they weren't fully shifting their weight forward and backward. Consequently we devoted time to examining their stance (length of step) and ensuring that they were both bending and straightening their knees.
It's always a bit overwhelming to take on a new correction or refinement of the form. When I've stayed with the practice, though, I find that it gradually becomes easier, more flowing, more relaxed, and--in time--effortless.
Friday, March 9, 2012:
Today I have a full day of work at the library ahead of me so I fortified myself with an early morning T'ai Chi Chih practice. It was lovely. During part of the practice I sat; at the end of the practice, in order to more easily accommodate the sideways movements, I stood.
The sun shone, yesterday's wind had died down, and the scene before me was a picture of pure white rolling acres. Now I'm struggling with a program I'm unfamiliar with on an unfamiliar computer just trying to write my blog. I'm a tiny bit aggravated. Still, I hope that today's work will flow easily as a result of my early morning activation, balancing, and circulation of the Chi....
Two students came to TCC class this morning (the remaining students are currently off traveling the country). The smaller class allowed time to refine and rework the movements which is, as we know, a constant and ongoing process that depends upon our willingness to continually strive to acquire a greater understanding of the form and the movement of the Chi.
I remember attending a teachers' certification years ago in which the trainer reminded us that we spend much of our time after we learn the basic form simply breaking bad habits we acquire during the course of our practices. That's certainly been true for me.
During our practice I noticed that both students sped ahead of me through most of the movements, a typical sign that they weren't fully shifting their weight forward and backward. Consequently we devoted time to examining their stance (length of step) and ensuring that they were both bending and straightening their knees.
It's always a bit overwhelming to take on a new correction or refinement of the form. When I've stayed with the practice, though, I find that it gradually becomes easier, more flowing, more relaxed, and--in time--effortless.
Friday, March 9, 2012:
Today I have a full day of work at the library ahead of me so I fortified myself with an early morning T'ai Chi Chih practice. It was lovely. During part of the practice I sat; at the end of the practice, in order to more easily accommodate the sideways movements, I stood.
The sun shone, yesterday's wind had died down, and the scene before me was a picture of pure white rolling acres. Now I'm struggling with a program I'm unfamiliar with on an unfamiliar computer just trying to write my blog. I'm a tiny bit aggravated. Still, I hope that today's work will flow easily as a result of my early morning activation, balancing, and circulation of the Chi....
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
"The Sweet Spot between Doing and Being"
Two days ago my desktop computer went capooey (spelling?). Consequently I'm borrowing time on other laptops (just a forewarning that this blog may be sporadic until we arrange for someone to look at the ailing machine).
Today between class sessions I reread a Daily Good article entitled, "The Sweet Spot between Doing and Being" by Viral Mehta. I wished to share some gems from this article with this evening's TCC continuing students. There were so many wonderful points discussed in the article, however, that it was hard to choose the juiciest.
Let's start with an Indian proverb from the story's lead: "When one foot walks, the other foot rests." That, of course, is the way nature works: cycles and rhythms help us to measure and live our lives (night and day, full and new moon, yin and yang).
The culture within which we live lends more importance to doing and creating vs. the subtle value of resting and being. "Our rational minds need space for the emergent, unknown and unplanned to arise. Within the existing paradigm, the external comes first, the internal takes a backseat, and in deference to measurability, we become more tuned in to doing than to being."
Ultimately, it's all about balance, balancing rest with activity, being with doing. It struck me today that that was my realization when I felt so stressed out yesterday morning. I could no longer effectively do because of my anxiety levels; I simply needed time to be to let go of the accumulated tension in my body. Yes, I'm learning . . . slowly.
This morning I held my final T'ai Chi Chih class at Humble Be (subbing). I only taught four sessions, but I thoroughly enjoyed my students who were regular practitioners of Humble Be's variety of offerings: yoga (beginning, advanced, and "hot"); drumming; belly, latin, and African dance; T'ai Chi Ch'uan; and other martial arts. These are folks who intentionally seek relaxation, rest, centering, and quieting of the mind and body. What a gift to teach those who are already searching....
Now it's time to head to my two evening TCC classes.
Today between class sessions I reread a Daily Good article entitled, "The Sweet Spot between Doing and Being" by Viral Mehta. I wished to share some gems from this article with this evening's TCC continuing students. There were so many wonderful points discussed in the article, however, that it was hard to choose the juiciest.
Let's start with an Indian proverb from the story's lead: "When one foot walks, the other foot rests." That, of course, is the way nature works: cycles and rhythms help us to measure and live our lives (night and day, full and new moon, yin and yang).
The culture within which we live lends more importance to doing and creating vs. the subtle value of resting and being. "Our rational minds need space for the emergent, unknown and unplanned to arise. Within the existing paradigm, the external comes first, the internal takes a backseat, and in deference to measurability, we become more tuned in to doing than to being."
Ultimately, it's all about balance, balancing rest with activity, being with doing. It struck me today that that was my realization when I felt so stressed out yesterday morning. I could no longer effectively do because of my anxiety levels; I simply needed time to be to let go of the accumulated tension in my body. Yes, I'm learning . . . slowly.
This morning I held my final T'ai Chi Chih class at Humble Be (subbing). I only taught four sessions, but I thoroughly enjoyed my students who were regular practitioners of Humble Be's variety of offerings: yoga (beginning, advanced, and "hot"); drumming; belly, latin, and African dance; T'ai Chi Ch'uan; and other martial arts. These are folks who intentionally seek relaxation, rest, centering, and quieting of the mind and body. What a gift to teach those who are already searching....
Now it's time to head to my two evening TCC classes.
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Bit by Bit, Day by Day, Practice by Practice
While I waited for a nerve wracking phone call this morning I realized that I was doing myself no good feeling anxious. Even though I planned to do more preparations before the call came in I realized that, in fact, I was no longer being productive during my wait. What to do....
T'ai Chi Chih practice, of course. It took me awhile to come to this realization but, as soon as I did, I jumped into my practice. Oh . . . after about 10 minutes I felt much better and by the time the phone rang another 10 minutes later, I was relaxed and ready to go.
After all these years of practice it seems that TCC would immediately come to mind as a helpful intervention when I feel nervous, fearful, or anxious. That's not always the case. It still takes time for me to realize how uncentered and out of whack I am before I can focus on what I can do to help myself.
In fact, I've come a long way from past habits and behaviors when I allowed myself to drown in the immensity of my feelings. Bit by bit, day by day, practice by practice I'm learning to return myself to TCC's soothing, centering meditation of movements. And, as I discovered this morning, help is there if I simply take the time to move toward it.
T'ai Chi Chih practice, of course. It took me awhile to come to this realization but, as soon as I did, I jumped into my practice. Oh . . . after about 10 minutes I felt much better and by the time the phone rang another 10 minutes later, I was relaxed and ready to go.
After all these years of practice it seems that TCC would immediately come to mind as a helpful intervention when I feel nervous, fearful, or anxious. That's not always the case. It still takes time for me to realize how uncentered and out of whack I am before I can focus on what I can do to help myself.
In fact, I've come a long way from past habits and behaviors when I allowed myself to drown in the immensity of my feelings. Bit by bit, day by day, practice by practice I'm learning to return myself to TCC's soothing, centering meditation of movements. And, as I discovered this morning, help is there if I simply take the time to move toward it.
Monday, March 5, 2012
Wrapped in a Cozy White Comforter
I started my day with lots of chores and more to go before I headed off to work. And then I realized: It's Monday. It's likely to be busy at the library. Why not take the time to do your T'ai Chi Chih practice before you do any more busywork?
And so, I did. Thankfully I practiced seated TCC while I looked outside at the wintry whiteness. Focusing on the pure white snow helped to calm and slow me down. I felt as if I, just like the Earth, was wrapped in a cozy white comforter.
More snow fell this afternoon and I've been told that another big storm should arrive on Thursday. Now that my library day is done I'll venture outside to discover how much more of that light fluffy white fell while I was working....
And so, I did. Thankfully I practiced seated TCC while I looked outside at the wintry whiteness. Focusing on the pure white snow helped to calm and slow me down. I felt as if I, just like the Earth, was wrapped in a cozy white comforter.
More snow fell this afternoon and I've been told that another big storm should arrive on Thursday. Now that my library day is done I'll venture outside to discover how much more of that light fluffy white fell while I was working....
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Relaxed and Ready
It's amazing how energetic a person can feel after taking care of business that's been avoided for weeks (or months) at a time. That's what happened today.
First, I set up a radon detection unit to monitor the level of radon in our home (I picked up the kit at the library before Christmas). Then Frances hooked up a wireless router that she bought several months ago to allow her to use her new wireless laptop at home instead of driving into Bayfield. Hurrah! I can now also connect the library's Kindle Touch and Kindle Fire to the internet.
Encouraged by the wireless hookup, I began sorting papers that have languished in my office for months (years?). And, with those accomplishments made, I went outside and shoveled for an hour (we received another light snowfall of 3-4 inches last night). When chores were completed, I did my T'ai Chi Chih practice outside.
It is different to do TCC in Sorel boots but it works. I also wore an oversized hat to keep my head warm in the 20ish temps. The sky was mostly blue, the silence was overwhelming (I heard a few birds singing), and I felt so grateful for this practice that brings me back to center.
Now it's time for dinner/movie guests and I'm relaxed and ready.
First, I set up a radon detection unit to monitor the level of radon in our home (I picked up the kit at the library before Christmas). Then Frances hooked up a wireless router that she bought several months ago to allow her to use her new wireless laptop at home instead of driving into Bayfield. Hurrah! I can now also connect the library's Kindle Touch and Kindle Fire to the internet.
Encouraged by the wireless hookup, I began sorting papers that have languished in my office for months (years?). And, with those accomplishments made, I went outside and shoveled for an hour (we received another light snowfall of 3-4 inches last night). When chores were completed, I did my T'ai Chi Chih practice outside.
It is different to do TCC in Sorel boots but it works. I also wore an oversized hat to keep my head warm in the 20ish temps. The sky was mostly blue, the silence was overwhelming (I heard a few birds singing), and I felt so grateful for this practice that brings me back to center.
Now it's time for dinner/movie guests and I'm relaxed and ready.
Saturday, March 3, 2012
Refreshed and Reconnected
I awoke early this morning still caught in the web of information conveyed by the documentary that Frances and I watched last night, Page One: Inside The New York Times. As a long ago journalism student I was trained to think deeply about the stories I wrote, the words I used, and the angle I took. Thirty-five years later I still remember my investigative journalism professor telling our class: Always look for the money.
Page One certainly stirred up a whirlwind of thoughts and feelings. As a result, I wrote a lengthy blog on Under the Forest Canopy; the last time I posted an entry there was February 2010. It felt good to write in more depth. Heck, it felt good to write.
Afterward I puttered around the house, helped Frances with Facebook, then shoveled today's three inch coating of snow off the front step and deck. It was so beautiful and quiet outside that I did my T'ai Chi Chih practice on the freshly cleared deck as I looked out onto the vanilla frosted dips and rises of the forest floor.
A light snow fell as I practiced and I marvelled at the silence. Of course, I heard human sounds: people talking and laughing outside the bar across the road, the roar of a snowmobile, the whoosh of a passing car. The winged and four-legged creatures kept their own counsel. Other than a brief chorus of coyotes as dusk fell, the woods was wrapped snugly in its cloak of white.
By the end of my practice I felt refreshed and reconnected to the wild, wintry world of the woods....
Page One certainly stirred up a whirlwind of thoughts and feelings. As a result, I wrote a lengthy blog on Under the Forest Canopy; the last time I posted an entry there was February 2010. It felt good to write in more depth. Heck, it felt good to write.
Afterward I puttered around the house, helped Frances with Facebook, then shoveled today's three inch coating of snow off the front step and deck. It was so beautiful and quiet outside that I did my T'ai Chi Chih practice on the freshly cleared deck as I looked out onto the vanilla frosted dips and rises of the forest floor.
A light snow fell as I practiced and I marvelled at the silence. Of course, I heard human sounds: people talking and laughing outside the bar across the road, the roar of a snowmobile, the whoosh of a passing car. The winged and four-legged creatures kept their own counsel. Other than a brief chorus of coyotes as dusk fell, the woods was wrapped snugly in its cloak of white.
By the end of my practice I felt refreshed and reconnected to the wild, wintry world of the woods....
Friday, March 2, 2012
Something Old, Something New
My day was filled with many new undertakings: technology (Kindle Fire), politics (town board elections), and additional work on 2011 taxes.... Productive, to say the least.
After I arrived home from an extended trip to Bayfield I sank into my good ol' dependable T'ai Chi Chih practice (seated) and experienced a well-deserved dose of peace and quiet. Yeah, when there are so many kernels in the popcorn popper, it's nice to turn down the heat.
The snow is shoveled, the wood is carried into the basement, and all is well with the world.... Now it's time for some Friday night relaxation.
After I arrived home from an extended trip to Bayfield I sank into my good ol' dependable T'ai Chi Chih practice (seated) and experienced a well-deserved dose of peace and quiet. Yeah, when there are so many kernels in the popcorn popper, it's nice to turn down the heat.
The snow is shoveled, the wood is carried into the basement, and all is well with the world.... Now it's time for some Friday night relaxation.
Shovel Snow, Carry Wood ... Relax with TCC
Thursday, March 1, 2012:
Today was dig out day. Frances and I wielded our shovels like the troopers that we are and, by mid-afternoon, had uncovered the car and front entrance. It felt unusual to be out shoveling after a major snowstorm in balmy (20-something-degree) weather. I'm more familiar with subzero temps following a "snow event."
After shoveling I hauled in several more sleds of wood then collapsed on the couch to rest. Yep, I rested. Several hours later I woke, rose, and did my T'ai Chi Chih practice (seated).
It felt good to relax my body. The softness of the practice felt even softer since I devoted so much energy and muscular effort to shoveling snow and hauling wood earlier in the day.
Today was dig out day. Frances and I wielded our shovels like the troopers that we are and, by mid-afternoon, had uncovered the car and front entrance. It felt unusual to be out shoveling after a major snowstorm in balmy (20-something-degree) weather. I'm more familiar with subzero temps following a "snow event."
After shoveling I hauled in several more sleds of wood then collapsed on the couch to rest. Yep, I rested. Several hours later I woke, rose, and did my T'ai Chi Chih practice (seated).
It felt good to relax my body. The softness of the practice felt even softer since I devoted so much energy and muscular effort to shoveling snow and hauling wood earlier in the day.
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