I'm just an ordinary person studying Tao/Taoism and Tai Chi

with the aim to apply my learnings to our modern world. 

Here are some of my comments/thoughts from my journey so far.  

2025-05-1409:43 2025-05-1110:08 The Microcosmic Orbit Meditation, also known as the Small Heavenly Cycle, is a foundational energy practice in Taoist internal alchemy (Neidan). It involves circulating Qi (life energy) through two primary energy channels in the body—the Governing Vessel (Du Mai) and the Conception Vessel (Ren Mai)—to promote physical health, emotional balance, and spiritual development. 🌌 What is the Microcosmic Orbit? The Microcosmic Orbit refers to a closed loop of Qi circulation that moves: Up the spine via the Governing Vessel (Du Mai) — from the perineum to the crown of the head. Down the front of the body via the Conception Vessel (Ren Mai) — from the tongue to the lower abdomen (the Dan Tian). The idea is to circulate energy through this loop to nourish the internal organs, clear blockages, and refine one's life force. 🧘‍♂️ How to Practice It (Beginner-Friendly Steps) Posture: Sit in a comfortable position (e.g., cross-legged or on a chair) with a straight spine and relaxed shoulders. Breathing: Inhale slowly and deeply through the Read More 2025-05-0209:45 The candle analogy is a helpful and commonly used metaphor in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to explain the relationship between Qi (vital energy), Jing (essence), and Shen (spirit/mind/consciousness). Here's how it breaks down: 🕯 Candle Analogy for Jing, Qi, and Shen 🕯 Jing (Essence) = The Wax and Wick of the Candle Jing is your foundational life substance—your inherited and stored energy. Like the wax and wick, it fuels and gives substance to the rest of your life. Once it's depleted, the candle can't burn anymore. 🔥 Qi (Vital Energy) = The Flame Qi is the active, dynamic energy that animates and drives life processes. It arises from the burning of the wax (Jing), like how energy comes from metabolic processes. Without Qi, there's no life force or activity. ✨ Shen (Spirit/Mind) = The Light Given Off by the Flame Shen is the radiant, conscious part—your mental clarity, emotions, and spirit. Like the candle’s light, it’s visible and expressive. A strong, steady flame (Qi) and enough wax (Jing) create a bright, calm light Read More 2025-04-2413:45 Weizhong (BL-40), also known as "Middle of the Crook" (委中), is a significant acupuncture point on the Bladder meridian, widely utilized in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for various therapeutic purposes. 📍 Location Weizhong (BL-40) is located at the midpoint of the crease behind the knee, in the center of the popliteal fossa (the soft spot at the back of the knee). To find it: Sit or stand with your knee slightly bent. Feel for the center point in the crease where your leg bends—between the two major tendons (biceps femoris on the outer side and semitendinosus on the inner side). ✋ How to Apply Acupressure Sit comfortably or lie on your stomach. Use your thumb or knuckle to apply firm, steady pressure on the point. Massage in a circular motion or press and hold for 1–2 minutes. Breathe deeply and relax during the session. Repeat on the other leg if needed. 💡 Tip: If it's hard to reach behind your knee, use a tennis ball or massage tool while lying Read More 2025-04-1910:13 What is Acupressure? Acupressure is a manual therapy rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where pressure is applied to specific points on the body—called acupoints—to promote healing, balance energy (Qi), and relieve pain or tension. It's like acupuncture without the needles. ⚙️ How Does Acupressure Work? Based on the same meridian system used in acupuncture. Energy (Qi) flows through meridians — pathways connected to organs and systems. When Qi is blocked or imbalanced, it may lead to pain or illness. Pressing acupoints helps to: Unblock stuck energy Stimulate blood flow Relax muscles Calm the nervous system 🌀 Benefits of Acupressure CategoryCommon Uses Pain reliefHeadaches, back pain, joint pain Stress & anxietyCalms the nervous system SleepHelps with insomnia DigestionEases bloating, constipation, nausea FatigueBoosts energy flow Menstrual healthReduces cramps and hormonal tension 🧘How to Perform Acupressure (Step-by-Step) Find the Point Use anatomical landmarks or charts. (I can send one if you want.) - Apply Pressure - Use your thumb, finger, or a rounded tool. - Pressure Technique - Hold steadily, or press and rotate slowly. Duration: 30 seconds to 2 minutes per point is common. Repeat: Can Read More 2025-04-1217:13 After many years of practicing Tai Chi I recently decided to revisit some fundamentals of the Tai Chi 24 form. This one was my first major form which started my passion for Tai Chi. I went through each posture starting at the beginning and re-explore the breathing part of it. http://livingthetao.com/tai-chi/tai-chi-forms/tai-chi-24-beijing/tai-chi-24-breathing #taichi #taichi24 #taichi24breathing 2025-03-2317:52 The Five Steps (五步 / Wǔ Bù) form the footwork principles of Tai Chi, complementing the Eight Energies (八法 / Bā Fǎ). These steps represent different ways of moving, positioning, and shifting weight, ensuring balance, agility, and control. The Five Steps are: Advance (進步 / Jìn Bù) – Moving forward Retreat (退步 / Tuì Bù) – Moving backward Look Left (左顧 / Zuǒ Gù) – Moving or turning left Look Right (右盼 / Yòu Pàn) – Moving or turning right Central Equilibrium (中定 / Zhōng Dìng) – Maintaining balance in the center These steps are not just physical movements but also strategic concepts in Tai Chi’s martial applications. 1. Advance (進步 / Jìn Bù) – Moving Forward Meaning: Moving forward with balance and intent. Principle: Expanding force while maintaining stability. Application in Combat: Used to close distance and apply pressure to an opponent. Often follows Ji (Press) or An (Push) to drive an opponent backward. Example: In "Step Forward to Deflect, Parry, and Punch," the step forward adds momentum to the strike. Training: Practice stepping forward Read More

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