Justin Stone Speaks on T’ai Chi Chih! Joy Thru Movement (February 2009)

When the negative and positive aspects (the yin and the yang) are balanced, impediments seem to drop away. The mind-body continuum works to adjust to its maximum potential, and the aqueous excess tends to dry up and there is easy weight control. We must remember that the body is about 70% fluid, and too much fluid is decidedly yin or negative… It is no surprise in such circumstances [being balanced] that we experience good health and peace of mind, and that we find creativity effortlessly flowing.

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It is not the emotions that make us unhappy – but the resentment and clinging that they tend to breed.

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A great sage from India, Sri Aurobindo (who lived in this century), made the amazing assertion that if this world were to be abolished, the Chi would be capable of building a new world in its place.

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The one who responds to things emotionally is easily swayed and frequently has his feelings hurt. Conversely, the over intellectual person finds it hard to love and be loved. Everything must be analyzed. These two, the intellect and the emotions, must be brought into balance.

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In the 13th century, the great T’ai Chi Chuan Master Chang San Feng described the way to move by saying, “In any action, the body should be light and alert, coordinated like strung pearls. The Chi, vital energy, should be actively excited. But the shen (spirit) must remain calm internally.” From this we learn that all T’ai Chi is essentially spiritual in nature. Meaning, it is in accord with reality.

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Nobody can do it for you. You must travel the path yourself.

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A Chinese Monk once said, “When the mind is transparent and pure, as if reflected on the mirror-like surface of the water, there is nothing in the world you would dislike. When it is serene as the light breeze in the sunshine, there will be no one whom you would like to forget.” Such serenity is rare in these hectic days. Nevertheless, it is possible.

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To one who understands the underlying unity of life, it is not surprising that our outer activity is changed as easily as our inner being.

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The Japanese speak of Seijaku, serenity in the midst of activity. [It is] not escaping from the world to some mountaintop as is taught in the Indian teachings. But [it is] finding the real meaning, fulfillment, energy, and wisdom in the midst of everyday hustle and bustle. [It is] building a silent and imperturbable center while active in the disappointments and triumphs of our busy lives. This is real fulfillment.

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We are the products of Chi. Habit plays a great part in how we condition the Chi and every thought and every emotion. Habit has effects on it. This is what is meant by the reciprocal character of mind and Chi.

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From Justin Stone Speaks on T’ai Chi Chih, ©2006

Available on CD ($11.95; 60 minutes) from Good Karma Publishing (www.gkpub.com)