Dry-Cold challenges ahead
The unusually high temperatures we saw in the autumn will continue for the next couple of weeks. However, Dry-Cold energy will dominate for the majority of December and January.
Dry-Cold is often burdensome for those who have weak lung and/or heart function. People with these susceptibilities will need extra support to avoid related health challenges.
This dynamic may also cause some blood circulation and skin problems.
Unfortunately, it also suggests to me that SARS-CoV2 will continue to worsen during these Dry-Cold months.
As usual, in order to maintain my own health and well-being, I have been dedicated to my daily cultivation practice. Like you, I have been carrying feelings of great grief for the world. I make a conscious effort to hold all those beloved in my heart and DanTian during my practice and send them wishes for health and healing.
Transform destructive emotions within
We can all practice transforming destructive energies by compassionately observing those feelings as they arise within us and then sending deep wishes for joy, healing and harmony back to the world and all its beings. The Standing Tiger Qigong form is a great way to transform within.
STANDING TIGER QIGONG
- Stand with feet parallel, shoulder width apart
- Grip the ground with the toes
- Feel the body root deep into the earth
- Knees are slightly bent and open so that your thighs and crotch form an arch
- The chest is open
- The shoulders are down and relaxed
- Both forearms and hands are at chest level with fingers pointing towards each other, as if you are hugging a giant tree
- The lower abdomen is tucked in
- The neck is straight
- The head and upper body are in an upright position
- Your body is held in an empty and relaxed manner
- Adjust your breath to be slow, smooth, deep, and even
VISUALIZATION:
Imagine you are hugging a giant tree, which is rooted deep into the earth and reaches way up into the sky
Envision golden light Qi entering your lungs each inhale, and nourishing your kidneys with each exhale.
Feel that you are surrounded by golden light Qi
Try this practice in the morning between 5-7am
Do your best to build up to the point where you can hold the form for at least 30 minutes
If you have any difficulty with standing, you are welcome to modify the form and taking a seated position
It is normal to feel challenged holding the posture, with either pains in your physical body and/or by experiencing uncomfortable emotions during your first few days of practice. Stick with it, this will shift after a few days of unbroken practice!
