Connecting To The Sea Of Energy

For as long as I can remember I was involved with or learning different forms of martial arts. Most of the time it was for self-defense and discipline. It helped me develop a strong body and mind. In 1999 I received a black belt in Okinawa weapons and was introduced to Chen T’ai Chi Ch’uan, internal energy and healing.

I was introduced to many ways of cultivating energy, referred to as Chi or Ki depending on the discipline. In the end I could describe it but never really felt it. This changed when I started taking a yoga and stretching class where I lived. I felt my core strengthen and my muscles begin to relax.

One day, teacher Hannah Hendrick asked if I wanted to learn T’ai Chi Chih. I was skeptical as to what she could teach me, but I went along with it and quickly learned the 19 movements and one pose. Some movements were similar to others I’d already learned. Nothing to it I thought.

Through daily practice, I refined my movements oftentimes without supervision. I ended with my own modifications, and with direction I was brought back into the fold.

One day while doing Passing Clouds, I began to feel the energy. Excited to share this with Hannah, I said that Passing Clouds was my favorite movement. She replied that whatever movement she was doing at the time was her favorite. Slowly, with practice, I began to feel the energy in other movements. Each time I was amazed and excited. When I felt the energy in everything, I finally understood what Hannah had meant. 

I practice TCC every morning wherever I go and have many special places to practice on Hawaii’s Big Island. As I begin, I am connecting to the sea of energy with others around the world in whatever discipline they practice. It starts me on the path to do the best I can each moment of the day.