Getting it Wrong

It is important to get things wrong.

To make mistakes.

Because this is how we learn.

When I first started Tai Chi, people would not practise because they couldn't remember the postures and were afraid to get it wrong. Invariably their progress stalled and they soon dropped out.

Instead we should practise and not be afraid to get it wrong. When we then go over the postures or receive a correction/advice/suggestion from a teacher/instructor it is more meaningful and allows us to progress.

Get it wrong to get it right.

Single Posture

When learning a form, we are usually taught one or two postures on a weekly basis which we then piece together with what we have previously learned.

The danger lies in practising the form without understanding the postures, because we are focusing on the wrong approach.

We must "get" the form, right?

No.

Study each posture individually. Understand the movement and the application. Each posture contains opening, connecting, joining and closing.

Then, when linking postures together, understand the point at which one posture ends and connects to the next without fudging that moment.

Liao Zhen Xiang

Liao Zhen Xiang is an old calligrapher who studied with Cheng Man Ching

OM Aphorism

Aphorisms can be used as part of a meditative practise.

John Kells has written a number of aphorisms to work on  OM. Here is one that I like.

" OM is voice to timeless Benediction "

Repeat this silently to yourself.

Listen.

Become aware.

Wisdom on Eastenders

Fantastic advice for difficult times (or any time ) was given on Eastenders, a BBC TV "soap".


Breathe and let go, breathe and let go,


Let me try that - one moment......yes, it works :)

Mid Air Root

You can be rooted even with both feet off the ground, for instance, as you are doing a jump.


So this begs the question - what is root?


What is your connection to?

What is connected to you?

Is Root in the Feet, the Mind, the Heart?

Is Root in the Soul?

I don't have a definitive answer because my experience has thrown up different answers. I leave you to yours.

Forum warriors

Sometimes I do find it interesting to read discussions on forums about tai chi.

Mostly I am left disappointed by the inane mud slinging of the keyboard warriors who bathe in their version of reality to the detriment of others.

Was it Bruce Lee who said " My Reality is not your Reality " ?

So I'm off outdoors to celebrate my own version of reality instead. Practise with sincerity and be open to discovery.