The journey of a thousand miles

The journey of a thousand miles

starts beneath your feet.

Tao Te Ching, verse 64, trans. Stephen Mitchell

Last week I read an article about how one of the biggest gyms in NYC (which shall remain nameless) had issued a snarky decree that new members would not be allowed to enroll on Jan. 1. Their reason? They were not interested in members who were motivated by well-meant but insincere New Year’s resolutions. They called it “the January effect” and dismissed it as not fiercely committed enough for them. That really bothered me!!! How dare they quash a new-comer’s efforts?

A judgmental, competitive attitude is endemic to much of the gym/trainer/fitness industry but has no place in the world of Qigong. According to Qigong principles, one’s energy and commitment to disciplined but compassionate self-care is unique and will find its own path in each of us; like the flight of a bird, as my teachers have said. For some of us, it has been a struggle to integrate Qigong into our lives, but each of us began the journey with a single step.

I applaud everyone who takes Qigong classes, no matter how regularly. I know in my heart that the seed is planted and will grow and flourish in time, because I see it happen over and over and over! That’s why I love teaching. Trust; breathe; feel; focus; be in the moment. Your energy will effortlessly grow and flourish. As many of us have discovered, it’s MUCH more fun to do this together, whether online or in person. That’s why our classes are here for you whenever you can join us.