Chi Assists the Healing Process

When chi circulates strongly through the body during T’ai Chi Chih practice, it sometimes highlights patterns of contraction – unresolved physiological trauma/tension and psychological conflict/resistance.

When this occurs a variety of sensations and spontaneous responses may be experienced. It is helpful to keep in mind that this is a useful process which indicates a movement toward needed transformation – a healing in progress.

A T’ai Chi Chih teacher recently informed me that one of her students desires to become an accredited instructor because of the wonderful benefits he has received through T’ai Chi Chih. This teacher also mentioned that her student was “bothered” when sensations of increased energy circulation occurred and that he stopped practicing when his hands strongly vibrated. This surprised me and I wrote him a note of encouragement, advising that he continue practicing, sensations or not.

Chi is the intelligent, evolutionary energy that nourishes and sustains us. It is not to be feared, but trusted. By working consciously and cooperatively with chi in T’ai Chi Chih practice, we invite a quickening influence to occur within us. The natural process of self-integration through the resolution of restrictive mind-body patterns is stepped up. There can only be gratitude for such a life enhancing opportunity. Anything that enhances the process of mind-body unification is to be welcomed, and T’ai Chi Chih can contribute significantly to this process. Know that the increased circulation of chi not only highlights areas in need of resolution by producing sensations – a symptom of resistance – but that it is an indication of harmonization in progress! In other words, though you may experience a variety of sensations: vibrating, pressure, heat, pain, cold, and mild to intense emotional surges, you are receiving indications that progress toward self-unity is usefully proceeding.

Regular, daily practice of T’ai Chi Chih ensures that self-integration will continue to unfold. This requires a measure of discipline and motivation. Each of us knows that we are here to grow into the limitless potential of our essential identity. And we recognize that by doing so we bring an end to the root of suffering. T’ai Chi Chih is a potent involvement that can bring about the resolution of self-fragmentation and disharmonious living, while opening us to true health and joy.