In our previous blog, we looked at how some of the Tai Chi principles can improve our everyday lives. Now, let’s look at some of the psychological benefits of applying the principles on a daily basis.
When Ken Cohen interviewed 105 year-old Master Wu Tu-Nan and asked if Tai Chi was the key to his good health and longevity, Master Wu replied, “Having a relaxed spirit is the secret to longevity.” We learn to live with a “relaxed spirit” by following the Tai Chi principles and allowing them to sink to a deeper level of understanding. “Relax Relax Relax” was the message from Tai Chi Master Yang Chen Fu. In Chinese, “relax” translates closely to song. Relaxation is probably one of the most beneficial aspects of Tai Chi, in terms of awareness, tranquility, effortlessness, sensitivity, and rootedness without tension or effort. A great example is the experienced practitioner who is moving fast, but remains completely calm.
Start by increasing your body awareness as you read this blog: Are you holding tension anywhere? Tension drains us of energy. By simply noticing tension, we start to become more self aware, which is the first step towards song. As you become more song, you’ll naturally pay more attention to what is happening around you.
Now, consider stillness and sensitivity. Start by truly listening, not just with your ears, but also with your eyes and heart, to what the other person is saying or what their intention might be. This also teaches us to pay attention to our surroundings and environment, as well as helps to clear our minds.
Remember, not all attacks are physical. Verbal attacks can be bait for an argument, to make us feel self-doubt, or to get us to make excuses. We don’t need to immediately determine whether or not the person is well-meaning or simply being cruel. Your job is not to take the bait, but instead, cultivate compassionate detachment in order to give yourself some emotional space and time to truly listen. Space and time help us step back and consider our response. Never allow yourself to be rushed to respond. This is often an attempt by the other person to take control, and you can deflect this by staying balanced.
A good example is the use of the word “you,” which can really ignite a fire in individuals, as it is often used to blame, manipulate, or accuse. Here, it is critical to keep your cool, take a deep breath, ground yourself, and don’t get pulled in. Deep quiet breathing (don’t gasp or sigh, either of which will likely escalate things) can help us relax and listen deeply.
In challenging situations that may last a while, you also need to pace yourself to retain your stamina. It is best to keep your responses short and neutral, while staying focused. We are looking for a middle ground, not fight or flight. Think of rollbacks in Yang, block and withdraw in Sun, or many of the other moves in Tai Chi meant to deflect negative energy coming in your direction. You can verbally ward off, roll back, press and even verbally uproot someone, without making physical contact.
These are only a few examples of how we can use Tai Chi principles in our daily lives. As you go through your Tai Chi practice, explore how the moves and concepts can bring more peace, calm, and harmony to your life, and truly appreciate the internal martial art that is Tai Chi!