A journey of a thousand miles begins with
the first step.
This is from the Tao Te Ching written by
Lao Tzu in 600 BCE. The interesting thing is that even though we live in the 21st
century personal journeys still begin with the first step into the unknown.
So it is with this blog. Which direction it
will go is unknown. Where it’s headed
is uncertain. Though I feel I am at the point where I have travelled far in my personal and working life, I am still learning. And it takes just one look up at the stars and moon, or the sun rising and setting to realize we are
living in a wonderful, huge world. You only need to witness the simple things in life to feel we are all part of something greater.
In the busy-ness of every day, tai chi
brings quietude and peace. From this silence and inner stillness we can find
balance on many different levels. For me, tai chi is beneficial as it’s also
known as moving meditation. From the physical
movements we can learn more about our bodies, strengthen our muscles and bones, and boost our immune systems. For someone
such as me who is partially deaf and blind, tai chi is my way of strengthening
my body and mind.
First steps - heading to the local markets
Tai chi or Taiji keeps me focussed on what I CAN do not what I can’t do. Through daily practice, I am more familiar with my arms, legs and balance and find spatial awareness is inbuilt in me. That may sound strange but for many our bodies are just a vehicle that transports us from home to work and around. Listening to our bodies is something we tend to neglect. When I do occasionally knock into corners, generally no one seems to suspect I have limited sight or hearing. In addition, falling is not something that worries me, nor do I want it to be something to fear in years to come as I get older.
Steady balance is always important when walking
I am not a master or even a teacher of tai chi. For me, practising tai chi for over 25 years and following the principles that make up tai chi guides me through each day. I would love to hear about what it is about tai chi that inspires people. Perhaps you just LIKE tai chi for no other reason than just 'playing tai chi' each day.
I don't practise tai chi but I did want to welcome you to the blogging world and wish you good luck with your blog.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much Rhonda. :0)
DeleteI have always been interested in learning Tai Chi, but have never taken the time to learn. Maybe that is something I need to take care of in the near future.
ReplyDeleteHi Dew, Thank you, this is my first published comment from a reader. :0) I hope you do try tai chi out sooner rather than later. I've also had times when I stopped formal lessons due to work or family commitments. The best thing is you can always practice at home in your own time. So I can always do that!
DeleteLovely photos! The idea of mindfulness is so fetching, isn't it? The idea of being here now is so challenging! I find my mind running many directions even in stillness! Dropping by from Rhonda's!
ReplyDeleteHi Matty, Thanks heaps for dropping by! Yes, 'monkey brain' is distracting isn't it? The best thing to do is just let the thoughts come and go. If you fight it, you will get even more distracted or uptight. A lot of people play quiet music while they do tai chi to stay in the zone. No words, only instrumental. Sometimes I play bamboo flute music.
DeleteOooops, I mean 'monkey mind'...Quick, time for tai chi :0)
DeleteI love Tai Chi! I like the way it exercises the whole body and also calms the mind. And I've even done some Tai Chi exercises while I was travelling, which was helpful. It is the one form of exercise I know I will always continue to do.
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed your post, but I would have liked a few more photos/pictures between the text.
Best wishes!
Hi Gerrie, Yes tai chi is so portable isn't it? You can even practice in your hotel room which is great and just 20 minutes is enough to feel recharged. Are there any particular exercises or forms you prefer? Thank you for your photo suggestions too.
Delete