Connections—Relationships—Unity

Lately I’ve been appreciating the many connections felt in my T’ai Chi Chih (TCC) practice. Starting in the soles of the feet, and really feeling their connection to the floor throughout the weight shift in each move strengthens my ability to remain present and focused. The mind tends not to stray when the focus is on feeling what’s happening.

Remaining in the feet yet expanding the awareness of the connection between the knees softening and surrendering to the weight shift, enables the tan t’ien to flow seamlessly. Basking in the relationship between the soles of the feet, the softening knees, and the now unhindered tan t’ien brings home the harmony of all three working together. The unity felt when this happens deepens the appreciation I feel when I get out of my way and simply allow.

Continuing to focus on this “three-part harmony” (i.e. feet, knees, tan t’ien) while expanding the awareness of the arms and hands responding to and with the flow from the tan t’ien, enables me to luxuriate in the unity between the upper and lower body flowing as one.

Allow me to widen the lens. Let’s consider that the practice of TCC is a blueprint for the practice of life. How do I apply these musings of having connections — relationships — unity within the greater TCC community? What connections might I be missing on a larger scale? Do I notice, value, appreciate the relationships in my life? I’ve heard it said that there are no large or small interactions. Where do I feel unity as I participate in the practice of Life? Perhaps a good place to start is in the soles of the feet.