On the Lookout
A friend recently directed me to a website to review what they had written about Chi Kung and Meditation. Over the years, with Master Chin's living example, Sifu Kuo's history, their guidance and encouragement, and my hardwork, I found that Zham Zhuang and Yi Chuan practice are the most rewarding and challenging.
As I read this webpage the author writes about Zham Zhuang and Chi Kung; "They are a series of easy exercises. The most important thing is the pleasure and fun of the training. If you aren't having it, just stop."
These statements are quite misleading. Practicing to become aware of ourselves is far from easy. If it was easy, everyone would do it. It has been my observation and experience that many people will talk about Zham Zhuang, Chi Kung, and Yi Chuan and minister how important these components are in improving health and self, yet an exceptional few will actually practice. Why do you ask? Because its not easy. The rewards on the other side are better health, integration of the heart - mind - body, and a confidence that is sturdy. You see, when we go to practice our standing meditation, we go with an effort to gain, to calm down, and feel better. This requires focus, attention, and spirit.
Regarding the statement of "just stop", I would encourage you not to "just stop". We teach and demonstrate to our students how to rest without losing the chi circulation, and how to ease oneself from this portion of the practice. For optimal results we must ease ourselves out, just like you require a cooldown period from a brisk walk, or workout. It just makes sense.
Be on the lookout for these types of teachings. Not that you need to come to us, but be prepared and aware of what you should expect from yourself and from your teacher. Each of our students will tell that they really begin to see results from all their practice, including their tai chi, paqua, and tui shou (pushhands) as they learn a sound technique of practice.
As one of our students said last night; "Simple does not mean Easy"
On the Lookout
Posted in Chi Kung, Meditation
Posted on Wednesday, May 02, 2007 at 5:39 PM by Sifu Smith
Edited on: Friday, May 04, 2007 10:13 AM