Moving Through Stress — Cris Caivano

It’s said that moving your home is one of the top stresses in life. Right in the middle of moving out of my apartment yesterday, when it felt like I’d never get to the bottom of 25 years’ worth of accumulated stuff, I suddenly realized with some surprise that I wasn’t feeling at all stressed. Exhausted, yes, and frustrated each time I lost track of the packing tape, for sure. But I’m sure doing Qigong regularly has made the whole process much easier. For instance, I remembered to stop and rest when necessary, just as I suggest you to do in class: that’s an example of mindfulness in action, keeping the Yin (rest) balanced with the Yang (effort). I was happily surprised how well my back held up with all the squatting and lifting and carrying, and I credit regular practice of “Turtle Pose” for that---it’s important to have strength when you need it. Last but not least, your good wishes and support kept my spirits up, as did my Lovely Assistant, who drove me back and forth, and swears there will be room for my things in his house.

On a much sadder note, the stress of moving is nothing compared to what we’ve all experienced this past week upon hearing more tragic news. In addition, a few of us have experienced very painful personal losses recently. I truly believe that Qigong can and will help us through these trials, in much the same way it helped keep me centered during my move. As long as we remember to stay present, breathe, relax, not push ourselves when exhausted, and to draw on the support of our friends and communities as well as the boundless, healing energy of nature all around us, we’ll be fine. Wherever we are.