T’ai Chi Chih Featured in AARP Magazine’s Upcoming Issue
AARP & T’ai Chi Chih
“I wanted you to be the first to know that my article on T’ai Chi Chih will appear in AARP The Magazine’s November/December issue in all three of its three editions (for ages 50+, 60+, 70+). Originally, it was slated for only the 70+ issue. You should also know that the article is very brief. Much of what the editor asked for she ultimately cut; I had no control over that, or the reference she made in the subtitle and diagrams to “exercise.” Nevertheless, this can only be a good thing for the practice. The magazine prints 24 million copies and has 40 million readers!” From Roselee Blooston, Montclair, NJ
See http://aarp.org/health/fitness/info-09-2010/tai_chi_chih.html
Brush Paintings by Susan Kissinger
After being inspired by Antonia with the joyful possibilities of brush painting, I enrolled in a course taught by a visiting artist from China. When she instructed us to copy an ancient Chinese masterpiece, I simply sat breathing, not knowing what to do. I allowed the Chi to show me the way. Minor insights kept me painting: controlling the water, loading the brush to create a rich gradation of ink and color, exploring dry brush technique to paint mountains that looked like mountains. One day, my teacher painted flowers that danced next to my seemingly wooden flowers. The sense of energy flowing through her flowers filled my bamboo leaves several days later. Just as with T’ai Chi Chih, my skills improved with regular practice.
Mandalas (August 2010) by Steve Marsh
Mandalas (Sanskrit for “circle”) have roots in sacred images and are often used for meditations. My versions were born from personal work with Jungian psychology (Carl Jung was a creative conduit of mandalas) and the unexpected invitation by a T’ai Chi Chih student to join an art group. The true catalyst, however, was my daily TCC practice and the resultant stillness. It was with some surprise (and joy) that the images sprang forth (and continue to do so). Mandalas can be quite elaborate and detailed, but my colored pencils and liquid pens on paper cast a more immediate and simpler presence. They’re more reflective of me and the creative energy – undoubtedly as I journey towards wholeness and connectedness.
Gift Giving
As you consider your year-end charitable giving, please consider making a gift to support The Vital Force and taichichih.org outreach efforts. Your contributions are fully tax-deductible. You may donate online at https://taichichih.org/vital_force.php. Thank you.
