Little Panda Learns the Tao: Stories of Nature's Balance cover

Embark on a heartwarming and enlightening journey with “Little Panda Learns the Tao: Stories of Nature’s Balance,” a beautifully crafted children’s book that introduces young readers to the wisdom and beauty of Taoism. Through a series of charming and engaging rhyming stories, Little Panda and his animal friends explore the principles of Taoism, discovering valuable life lessons in harmony, balance, and resilience.

Each tale captures the essence of a Taoist teaching, inviting children to appreciate the interconnectedness of all things, the power of going with the flow, and the importance of living in harmony with nature. From the flowing river that teaches Little Panda about Wu Wei to the Yin-Yang Forest Adventure that reveals the balance of light and darkness, young readers are sure to be captivated by the vibrant illustrations and memorable characters.

“Little Panda Learns the Tao” not only offers engaging stories but also encourages children to appreciate and explore the beauty of nature and the wisdom of Taoism. Perfect for parents and educators looking to introduce spiritual and philosophical concepts to young minds, this delightful book will inspire young readers to approach life with a sense of wonder, curiosity, and mindfulness.

Join Little Panda on his quest to uncover the secrets of the Tao and nurture a deep connection with the natural world.

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Embracing Life's Journey Your Guide to Personal Growth with the I Ching cover

In ‘Embracing Life’s Journey: Your Guide to Personal Growth with the I Ching’, ancient wisdom meets modern technology to guide your personal growth. This innovative guide incorporates insights generated by advanced AI technology, offering a fresh, unique perspective on the I Ching’s timeless wisdom.

Harnessing the power of the state-of-the-art language model, ChatGPT, we have delved into the vast knowledge of the I Ching. The result is a groundbreaking interpretation of the 64 hexagrams, demystifying their intricate language, and making the profound wisdom of the I Ching accessible and relatable.

This book is more than a manual—it’s a companion on your journey of self-discovery and transformation. It complements the GrowthGuide app, an AI-based I Ching tool designed to streamline your consultation of this ancient oracle.

Whether you’re facing a decision, seeking inner peace, or on a quest for personal growth, this book illuminates your path. Learn to navigate life’s complexities, harness your potential, and cultivate a deeper understanding of your inner self and the world around you.

Step into a journey of personal growth with the I Ching and explore how the powerful and beautiful insights of the I Ching illuminate the path towards self-realisation and mindful living. ‘Embracing Life’s Journey: Your Guide to Personal Growth with the I Ching’ is your compass to navigating life’s myriad paths with wisdom, peace, and resilience.

The mystic charm of ancient Chinese wisdom shines brightly in the I Ching Coin Method. This age-old technique offers profound insights, guiding us through the labyrinth of life’s decisions. Let’s delve into this fascinating world and unlock the secrets of the I Ching Coin Method.

History and Origins of the I Ching Coin Method

The I Ching, also known as the Book of Changes, is an ancient Chinese divination tool that dates back over 3,000 years, making it one of the oldest texts in the world. Its enduring relevance is testament to its profound insight and wisdom.

The I Ching itself was initially composed in the Zhou dynasty, a period of great cultural and intellectual expansion. This original text, known as the Zhouyi, was comprised of 64 hexagrams and corresponding line statements. Over the centuries, additional commentaries were added, evolving into the I Ching as we know it today.

But what about the I Ching Coin Method, the most commonly used method for consulting the I Ching? Its origins are a bit more elusive. The older method of consulting the I Ching involved the use of yarrow stalks, a process that was quite complicated and time-consuming. It’s believed that the coin method arose as a simpler, more accessible alternative.

The Coin Method is thought to have been introduced during the Han dynasty, around 2,000 years ago. This was a time when coins were becoming more standardized and widely circulated, which could explain why coins were adopted as a tool for I Ching divination.

The most traditional coins used in the I Ching Coin Method are the old Chinese coins with square holes in the center. These coins have Yin Yang symbolism: the round shape represents heaven (yang), and the square hole represents earth (yin). In the I Ching Coin Method, the two sides of the coin also represent yin and yang.

The introduction of the coin method democratized access to the I Ching, making it easier for anyone to seek its wisdom. This ease of use has certainly contributed to its enduring popularity, and today, millions of people around the world consult the I Ching using coins.

While the I Ching Coin Method has evolved over the centuries, its core purpose remains the same: to provide a means of exploring the dynamic balance of opposites, the evolution of events, and the possibility of insight and wisdom. Its history is a testament to the enduring relevance of this ancient wisdom in our modern world.

Understanding the Symbolism of the Coins

When delving into the I Ching Coin Method, it’s important to appreciate the profound symbolism embodied in the coins themselves. In traditional Chinese culture, symbolism plays a significant role, and the coins used in the I Ching are no exception.

The most traditional coins used for the I Ching Coin Method are the old Chinese coins, often called “cash coins,” characterized by their distinctive round shape and square hole in the center. Each aspect of these coins carries symbolic weight.

Round Shape and Square Hole

The round shape of the coin represents Heaven, and the square hole represents Earth. This reflects the fundamental Taoist concept of the unity and interdependence of Heaven and Earth. In the context of the I Ching, this symbolism reminds us that our individual lives are intimately connected with the larger patterns and cycles of the natural world.

Yin and Yang Sides

Each side of the coin also carries symbolic significance. The side with the four Chinese characters is considered the heads, or Yang side. Yang, in Chinese philosophy, is the active, masculine principle, characterized by light, warmth, and movement. The other side, with only two characters, is the tails, or Yin side. Yin is the receptive, feminine principle, characterized by darkness, coolness, and stillness.

In the I Ching Coin Method, the Yang side of the coin is given the numerical value of 3, and the Yin side is given the value of 2. This is further tied to the symbolism of Yang and Yin: Yang, as the active principle, is associated with odd numbers, and Yin, as the receptive principle, is associated with even numbers.

The Role of the Coins in Divination

When we cast the coins in an I Ching reading, we’re not just generating random numbers. Instead, we’re engaging with the rich symbolism of Yin and Yang, Heaven and Earth, and the dynamic interplay between these primal forces. The casting of coins, therefore, becomes an act of connecting with the universe’s inherent wisdom.

Balance and Transformation

Beyond individual Yin and Yang attributes, the symbolism of the coins also speaks to balance and transformation. When conducting a reading, three coins are tossed at a time, resulting in a sum of 6, 7, 8, or 9. The numbers 6 and 8 are associated with Yin energy, while 7 and 9 are linked to Yang energy.

However, 6 and 9, referred to as “old” Yin and Yang, denote changing lines, implying a transformation from one state to another. This reflects the constant flux and interplay between Yin and Yang, embodying the Taoist principle that the only constant is change.

The Trigrams

The coins also relate to the eight trigrams, fundamental symbols within the I Ching. Each trigram is composed of three lines—either broken (representing Yin) or unbroken (representing Yang). These trigrams are further combined to create the 64 hexagrams that form the core of the I Ching’s wisdom.

When we cast the coins, we are essentially building these trigrams and hexagrams, line by line. Each coin toss thus contributes to a larger symbolic structure, representing a snapshot of the dynamic forces at play in the situation you are consulting the I Ching about.

In the I Ching, each trigram is associated with specific natural phenomena and qualities. For example, the trigram composed of three unbroken lines represents Heaven, symbolizing creativity and initiative. In contrast, the trigram composed of three broken lines represents Earth, symbolizing receptivity and nurturing.

The Metal Element

Finally, it’s worth noting that in Chinese philosophy, coins, being made of metal, are associated with the Metal element, one of the Five Elements that are central to Chinese cosmology. The Metal element is associated with qualities such as clarity, precision, judgment, and the ability to “cut” through confusion to discern the essential truth of a situation. This adds another layer of meaning to the act of casting coins in the I Ching Coin Method.

In conclusion, the coins used in the I Ching Coin Method are far more than mere random number generators. They are potent symbols, each aspect of their design imbued with philosophical and cosmological significance. By casting these coins, we engage in a dialogue with the timeless wisdom of the I Ching, inviting insight and guidance into our lives. The coins serve as a bridge between our personal, subjective experiences and the larger, universal patterns and cycles represented by the I Ching.

The Basics of Using the I Ching Coin Method

The I Ching Coin Method is a fascinating process that involves casting three coins six times to create a hexagram—a six-line symbol that provides insight into your question or situation. This section will explore the basics of this process in more depth, guiding you through each step. Each line can be either broken (yin) or unbroken (yang), representing the different states of energy in the universe.

To start, you’ll need three coins. While any coins can be used, many practitioners prefer to use Chinese I Ching coins, as these carry a rich symbolism and historical connection to the I Ching tradition. Each coin has two sides: one side is denoted as Yin (value of 2), and the other as Yang (value of 3). This distinction is crucial when casting the coins to form the lines of your hexagram. If using coins of your country count heads as three (3) and tails as two (2).

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Use the I Ching Coin Method

Before you begin casting the coins, it’s important to formulate a clear and concise question. This question should ideally be open-ended, rather than seeking a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer. The I Ching is not a tool for predicting specific outcomes, but rather a means of gaining deeper insight and perspective on life’s challenges and decisions. So, consider what you truly need guidance on, whether it’s a personal dilemma, a significant decision, or a situation you’re trying to understand better.

Here is a simple, step-by-step guide to using the I Ching Coin Method:

Step 1: Toss three coins with a shake of your cupped hands, and let them fall.

Step 2: Count heads as three and tails as two, and add the value of all three coins.</p>

  • Three heads equals 9
  • Two heads and one tail equals 8
  • One head and two tails equals 7
  • Three tails equals 6

Step 3: Generate the second line of your Hexagram by giving the coins another toss. Then, place this line above the initial line.

Step 4: Continue the process until you have 6 lines.

Step 5: As an example, let’s assume the following was rolled.

Note: 6 and 9 are changing lines. Even numbers 6,8 are drawn as open. Odd numbers 7,9 are drawn as closed.

Step 6: Determine your Hexagram by cross-referencing with the hexagram key. The bottom trio of lines forms the lower trigram, while the upper trio constitutes the upper trigram. The Hexagram can be identified by the number where the lower and upper trigrams intersect. In this case it is Hexagram 63.

Hexagram Key

Step 7: Read the text for that Hexagram up to the section that says ‘First Line.’ Beyond that, read only the sections for those lines which ‘changed’ in your Hexagram. Changing lines are those with a value of 6 or 9. In the example above, lines 2 and 5 are changing lines.

Step 8: Now that you’ve read the Hexagram’s meaning and corresponding changing lines, it’s time to switch them to their counterparts.Step 9: In the example above. Line 2 now becomes closed, and line 5 becomes open. Find where the new lower and upper trigram intersects using the key—Hexagram 11. To deepen the understanding of the initial Hexagram, one should delve into the text of the second Hexagram. However, it’s crucial to focus solely on the introductory sections. Do not read the text for any lines. Ignore reading lines 1 to 6. We only focus on the appropriate lines in the first Hexagram.

Advanced Techniques and Tips for Using the I Ching Coin Method

As with any form of divination, the more you practice and immerse yourself in the process, the more you’ll be able to glean from it. This holds especially true for the I Ching coin method. It’s not just about throwing coins and reading the resulting hexagrams. It’s about developing a deeper understanding and relationship with the I Ching. Here are some advanced techniques and tips to help you get even more from your I Ching coin method consultations.

Intention Setting: One of the most important aspects of any I Ching reading is the intention behind it. Before you cast your coins, take a few moments to meditate on your question or concern. By focusing your energy and intent, you can achieve a deeper, more meaningful connection with the I Ching. This helps to ensure that the guidance you receive is as clear and relevant as possible.

Coin Cleansing: Just as you would cleanse a tarot deck or a crystal, consider cleansing your I Ching coins. This can be done through various methods, such as smudging with sage, burying them in salt, or leaving them in the moonlight. Cleansing your coins can help to clear any residual energies and make them more receptive to your intentions.

The Fourth Coin: While the traditional I Ching coin method uses three coins, some practitioners like to add a fourth coin to the mix. This coin is known as the “controller” or “master” coin. If the fourth coin lands tails up, it means the other coins stay as they are. If it lands heads up, it reverses the other coins. This method adds an additional layer of complexity and depth to your readings.

Multiple Readings: Sometimes, a single hexagram might not provide a complete answer to your question. In such cases, you might consider casting coins for multiple hexagrams. This can offer a more nuanced view of the situation at hand. However, be cautious not to fall into the trap of casting repeatedly until you get the answer you want.

Note Taking: Keep a record of your readings. Note down your question, the date, the hexagram(s) you received, and your interpretation. Over time, you’ll start to see patterns and gain a deeper understanding of how the I Ching speaks to you.

Study: Finally, don’t shy away from studying the I Ching’s rich history and philosophy. The more you understand about the I Ching’s origins and the meanings behind its hexagrams, the better you’ll be able to interpret its guidance.

These are just a few techniques to help you advance in your I Ching practice. Remember, the key is not to rush the process. The I Ching is a tool for introspection and reflection, not for quick fixes. Take your time with it, respect it, and it will reward you with profound insights and guidance.”

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using the I Ching Coin Method

The I Ching coin method is a powerful tool for introspection and guidance. However, as with any tool, it’s essential to use it correctly to ensure accurate and meaningful results. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using the I Ching coin method:

Ambiguous Questions: The I Ching works best when you ask clear, concise, and specific questions. Ambiguous questions can lead to equally ambiguous answers, making the reading difficult to interpret. Spend some time formulating your question before you begin the coin toss.

Repetitive Questions: Once you’ve asked a question and received a response, it’s important not to keep asking the same question in the hope of getting a different answer. Trust in the wisdom of the I Ching and the response it has given you.

Ignoring the Present: While the I Ching can provide guidance about potential outcomes, its primary purpose is to help you understand the present moment. If you’re always asking about the future, you might miss important insights about the here and now.

Reading Too Literally: The I Ching speaks in the language of symbols and metaphors. Don’t make the mistake of interpreting its messages too literally. Instead, contemplate the symbolism of the hexagram and how it might apply to your situation.

Disregarding the Changing Lines: In an I Ching reading, the changing lines – those lines that are in the process of changing from yin to yang or vice versa – carry significant weight. They offer additional insights about the dynamics of your situation. Ignoring these changing lines can lead to an incomplete or skewed interpretation.

Rushing the Process: Consulting the I Ching is a thoughtful, introspective process. If you rush through the coin toss or the interpretation of the hexagram, you might miss important nuances. Take your time, be present, and allow the wisdom of the I Ching to unfold naturally.

Being Too Emotionally Invested: While it’s normal to have hopes and fears about a situation, being overly emotionally invested can cloud your interpretation of an I Ching reading. Try to approach the reading with a calm, open mind, ready to receive whatever guidance the I Ching has to offer.

Not Reflecting on the Guidance: The I Ching’s wisdom isn’t meant to be quickly read and then forgotten. It’s meant to be pondered and reflected upon. If you don’t take the time to truly consider the guidance you’ve received, you might miss its full value.

By being mindful of these common mistakes, you can ensure that your experience with the I Ching coin method is as insightful and meaningful as possible.”

Resources for Further Study and Practice

Embracing the I Ching Coin Method is a lifelong journey of discovery. There are numerous resources available for further study and practice, including classic texts like Richard Wilhelm’s “The I Ching or Book of Changes”, contemporary interpretations, and online forums where practitioners share their experiences and insights.

You can also download this app to help guide you. Discover the benefits of the I Ching app for yourself and experience the harmony it can bring to different aspects of your life, such as relationships, career, and personal growth. Download the App Store or Download the Play Store and start your journey to enhanced self-awareness and inner peace.

Conclusion

Mastering the I Ching Coin Method is a process of continual learning and self-discovery. This ancient tool doesn’t just provide answers; it encourages introspection, offers fresh perspectives, and empowers us to make wise decisions. So whether you’re at a crossroads, seeking clarity, or simply curious about this timeless wisdom, the I Ching Coin Method stands ready to guide you on your journey.

Useful Links

  1. Revolutionary I Ching App Harness ChatGPT for Hexagram Insights, Apple App Store – Google Play Store
  2. Collection of engaging and enlightening stories for children that explore the principles of Taoism. Download on Amazon
  3. Learn more about the aiching.app
  4. Interested in Tai Chi?

The I Ching: Timeless Wisdom and Universal Appeal

The I Ching, or Book of Changes, has a rich and complex history spanning thousands of years. Dating back to the Zhou dynasty (1046 256 BCE), it was originally used as a divination manual and a tool for political and moral decision-making. Hexagrams were employed to interpret patterns of cracks on heated turtle shells or animal bones, a practice known as scapulimancy. Over time, the I Ching evolved into a sophisticated text with a diverse range of interpretations and commentary on the hexagrams.

During the Warring States period (475-221 BCE), the I Ching became closely associated with Confucianism, Taoism, and other philosophical schools. It was seen as a source of wisdom used to explore the nature of existence, the human condition, and the patterns of change in the world.

A significant development in the I Ching’s history was the introduction of the ‘Ten Wings,” a series of commentaries often attributed to Confucius. These commentaries expanded the philosophical and ethical dimensions of the I Ching, solidifying its status as a foundational text of Confucian thought.

In subsequent centuries, the I Ching became a central text in Chinese culture, widely studied and used for divination. Its influence extended to other East Asian countries like Japan and Korea, where it was adapted and integrated into local cultural traditions. Numerous commentaries, translations, and adaptations of the I Ching emerged, resulting in a diverse range of interpretations and practices.

In the 20th century, the I Ching gained renewed popularity in the Western world through the works of Carl Jung, Richard Wilhelm, and other scholars and writers. This resurgence led to further exploration, study, and new translations emphasizing the text’s psychological and spiritual aspects.

Today, the I Ching remains a widely-used and influential text, valued for its insights into the human experience and its ability to provide guidance and inspiration across cultures and generations. Its enduring popularity testifies to the timeless wisdom it contains and its universal appeal.

Download Apple App Store

Download Google Play Store

Useful Links

  1. Revolutionary I Ching App Harness ChatGPT for Hexagram Insights, Apple App Store – Google Play Store
  2. Collection of engaging and enlightening stories for children that explore the principles of Taoism. Download on Amazon
  3. Learn more about the aiching.app
  4. Interested in Tai Chi?

The I Ching: Ancient Wisdom and Divination

The I Ching, also known as the Book of Changes, is a philosophical and divinatory text from ancient China. It consists of 64 hexagrams, each combining six lines that are either unbroken (representing yang) or broken (representing yin). These hexagrams are used as a tool for divination, in which the inquirer poses a question and then uses a method, such as tossing yarrow stalks or coins, to determine which hexagram applies. The I Ching then provides guidance and insight into the situation based on the hexagram’s meaning.

Aside from its divinatory function, the I Ching is considered a book of wisdom, providing insight into the nature of existence and the human condition. Each hexagram has commentary that provides advice and guidance on various aspects of life, such as relationships, career, and personal growth. The text emphasises the importance of balance, harmony, and adaptation to change and encourages the reader to cultivate inner awareness and develop a sense of purpose.

The I Ching is a complex and multi-faceted text used for thousands of years as guidance and inspiration. Its enduring popularity testifies to its ability to provide meaningful insights into the human experience and help people navigate life’s challenges and changes.

The I Ching’s Influence and Popularity

The I Ching is a divination tool and a rich source of philosophical and spiritual insight. The text is steeped in Chinese culture, and its teachings have influenced various aspects of Chinese society, including art, literature, and even politics. It’s used by individuals seeking guidance, leaders, and scholars seeking insight into human nature and the world around them.

In addition to its philosophical and divinatory aspects, the I Ching is also considered a work of literature, with a poetic and symbolic language that has inspired countless artists, writers, and thinkers. The text has been translated into many languages and is widely available in various editions, making its teachings accessible to people worldwide.

Continued Relevance Today

The I Ching continues to be a popular and influential text, and its teachings resonate with people of all cultures and backgrounds. Whether used as a divination tool or as a source of philosophical and spiritual insight, the I Ching is a timeless work that continues to offer wisdom and guidance to those who seek it.

Download Apple App Store

Download Google Play Store

Useful Links

  1. Revolutionary I Ching App Harness ChatGPT for Hexagram Insights, Apple App Store – Google Play Store
  2. Collection of engaging and enlightening stories for children that explore the principles of Taoism. Download on Amazon
  3. Learn more about the aiching.app
  4. Interested in Tai Chi?

How was it started?

My name is James, and I’m the developer of the app. I have been fascinated with the I Ching for years. I can’t resist going into old bookstores and checking if they have any I Ching’s on their shelves. I have collected many interpretations over the years.

It takes me ages to review and gain wisdom from all my interpretations when needing guidance or insight. Would it not be cool to have a single source? When ChatGPT arrived, I thought this would be a fantastic way to combine all my resources into an app for quick access.

ChatGPT and the I Ching App

ChatGPT is a powerful language model widely used to analyse and interpret text from various sources. This app leveraged ChatGPT to provide insightful interpretations of the hexagrams. It did so by analysing many I Ching resources. [See Resource List Below]

The text of the hexagram is inputted into the model, which then uses its natural language processing capabilities to analyse the text and extract meaning from it. ChatGPT can identify patterns and themes in the text and provide a nuanced interpretation that considers the hexagram’s context.

Benefits of using ChatGPT for I Ching analysis

Using ChatGPT to analyse I Ching resources provides a better understanding of this ancient text in several ways.

Firstly, the I Ching is a complex and multi-layered text containing much information and wisdom. Using ChatGPT makes it possible to extract meaning and insights from the text that may not be immediately apparent to the human reader. ChatGPT can help identify patterns and themes in the text and provide nuanced interpretations of the hexagrams and their meanings.

Secondly, the I Ching is a text studied and interpreted by scholars and practitioners for thousands of years. Analysing these resources with ChatGPT makes it possible to gain a broader perspective on the text and its interpretations. It helps to identify commonalities and differences in how the text has been understood over time and across cultures and provides a complete picture of the I Ching and its significance.

Finally, using ChatGPT can help make the I Ching more accessible to modern readers. The language and concepts in the text can be challenging to understand for those unfamiliar with the culture and context in which it was written. Using ChatGPT to analyse the text and provide interpretations, the text’s meaning can be more transparent and more understandable to a broader audience. It leads to a greater appreciation of the wisdom contained in the text and its relevance to our lives today.

Using ChatGPT, the I Ching app can be continually updated and improved with new insights and interpretations as the model gets trained with more data. It ensures that the app remains relevant and valuable to users over time.

I Ching Resources

Download Apple App Store

Download Google Play Store

Useful Links

  1. Revolutionary I Ching App Harness ChatGPT for Hexagram Insights, Apple App Store – Google Play Store
  2. Collection of engaging and enlightening stories for children that explore the principles of Taoism. Download on Amazon
  3. Learn more about the aiching.app
  4. Interested in Tai Chi?

Below are the Short Form steps of the Yang style.

  1. Preparation posture
  2. Beginning posture – shoulder width
  3. Ward-off left – 7/3 step
  4. Ward-off right—-⎤ Grasp
  5. Roll back.———-|
  6. Press.—————-| Sparrow’s
  7. Pull——————|
  8. Push—————-⎦ Tail
  9. Single hook
  10. Lift hands – T step
  11. Shoulder forward – ½ step
  12. White crane spreads wings – ½ step
  13. Brush knee, left – 7/3 step
  14. Play the guitar – ½ step
  15. Brush Knee & Twist Step
  16. Step forward, deflect downward & punch – 7/3 step
  17. Withdraw & push
  18. Cross hands – shoulder width
  19. Embrace tiger, return to mountain – 7/3 step 30º into corner
  20. Grasp sparrow’s tail – 7/3 step
  21. Look at fist under elbow – ½ step
  22. Step back to repulse monkey – left
  23. Step back to repulse monkey – right
  24. Step back to repulse monkey – left
  25. Diagonal flying – shoulder width
  26. Cloud hands – left – 1½ x shoulder
  27. Cloud hands – right – shoulder width
  28. Single hook – 7/3 step
  29. Descending single hook
  30. Golden rooster stands on one leg – right
  31. Golden rooster stands on one leg – left
  32. Separate right foot – shoulder width
  33. Separate left foot – shoulder width
  34. Turn & kick with heel
  35. Brush knee left – 7/3 step
  36. Brush knee right
  37. Step forward & strike with fist
  38. Step forward & Grasp Sparrow’s Tail
  39. Single hook
  40. Fair lady weaves at the shuttles 1,2,3,4 – 7/3 step 30º into corner
  41. Ward-off left
  42. Grasp Sparrow’s Tail
  43. Single hook
  44. Descending single hook
  45. Step forward to seven stars – ½ step
  46. Step back & ride tiger 
  47. Turn body & sweep lotus with leg
  48. Bend bow, shoot tiger – 1½ shoulder
  49. Step up – shoulder width
  50. Roll back
  51. Step forward, deflect downward & punch – 7/3 step
  52. Withdraw & push
  53. Cross hands – shoulder width

Learn more about Tai Chi

Useful Links

  1. Revolutionary I Ching App Harness ChatGPT for Hexagram Insights, Apple App Store – Google Play Store
  2. Collection of engaging and enlightening stories for children that explore the principles of Taoism. Download on Amazon
  3. Learn more about the aiching.app
  4. Interested in Tai Chi?

Tai Chi, also known as Tai Chi Chuan, is a Chinese martial art that combines slow, graceful movements with deep breathing and meditation. The practice originated in ancient China as a form of self-defence, but it has since evolved into a popular form of exercise and stress reduction. Many people today practice Tai Chi for its numerous health benefits, which range from improving physical fitness and flexibility to reducing stress and anxiety.

One of the primary benefits of Tai Chi is its ability to improve physical health. The slow, gentle movements of Tai Chi can help to improve flexibility, balance, and coordination. This can be especially beneficial for older adults, who may be at increased risk of falls and injuries. In addition, the deep breathing and relaxation techniques used in Tai Chi can help to improve cardiovascular health, lower blood pressure, and improve circulation.

Another benefit of Tai Chi is its ability to reduce stress and improve mental well-being. The slow, controlled movements and deep breathing techniques used in Tai Chi can help to calm the mind and promote relaxation. This can help to reduce anxiety and improve overall mental health. In addition, the meditative aspect of Tai Chi can help to improve focus and concentration, which can be beneficial for people who have trouble staying focused and present at the moment.

Tai Chi is also a low-impact form of exercise, which makes it suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. Unlike high-impact activities like running or jumping, Tai Chi places minimal strain on the joints and muscles, making it an ideal exercise for people with physical limitations or injuries. In addition, Tai Chi can be practised almost anywhere, making it a convenient form of exercise for people with limited access to a gym or other fitness facilities.

Another benefit of Tai Chi is its ability to improve cognitive function and delay the onset of cognitive decline. Several studies have shown that regular practice of Tai Chi can improve cognitive function, particularly in older adults. For example, one study found that older adults who practised Tai Chi for six months experienced significant improvements in memory and cognitive function compared to a control group who did not practice Tai Chi.

In addition to its physical and mental health benefits, Tai Chi is a safe and gentle form of exercise. Unlike other martial arts, Tai Chi does not involve physical contact or competition, making it an ideal exercise for people who may be intimidated by other types of martial arts. In addition, the slow, controlled movements of Tai Chi can help to prevent injuries and other physical problems that may be associated with more strenuous forms of exercise.

Overall, the benefits of Tai Chi are numerous and varied. Whether you want to improve your physical fitness, reduce stress, or improve your mental well-being, Tai Chi may be the perfect form of exercise for you. With its low-impact movements, gentle pace, and numerous health benefits, Tai Chi is an accessible and effective way to improve your overall health and well-being.

Useful Links

  1. Revolutionary I Ching App Harness ChatGPT for Hexagram Insights, Apple App Store – Google Play Store
  2. Collection of engaging and enlightening stories for children that explore the principles of Taoism. Download on Amazon
  3. Learn more about the aiching.app
  4. Interested in Tai Chi?

Practice Tai Chi during the pandemic – COVID-19

  • TCM practitioners have offered health tips to people amid the global outbreak
  • Traditional Chinese medicine is used widely in treating the coronavirus in China
  • 92% of the patients in China reportedly show improvement after such therapies

Traditional Chinese medicine experts have offered tips to help the public stay healthy during the coronavirus pandemic.

They suggested people avoid humidity, practice Tai Chi and even listen to classical music to help maintain their health and stay away from the killer infection. 

Some Chinese medics believe the deadly disease, known as COVID-19, could be caused by the imbalance of yin and yang in one’s body, as a result of living in a humid and wet area.

‘According to the basic theory of TCM, the COVID-19 could be caused by “the dampness evil”,’ said Dong Guoju, a chief physician at the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences.

‘The dampness evil belongs to yin evil. Yin evil can damage yang qi [in one’s body],’ she said in a conference call between Chinese and American medics on Wednesday.

‘The epicentre of the coronavirus was in Wuhan where the weather was wet and cold,’ said Zhang Boli, a Chinese expert in medicine and engineering. 

Tai Chi is also reported as an effective exercise to boost patient’s immune system and help them recover from the deadly disease, according to the Chinese media.

Several hospitals in Wuhan have included the Chinese martial art as part of the therapy sessions for their patients. Chinese experts also recommend people to practice Tai Chi at home to stay healthy during quarantine.  

Health experts suggested people to maintain a calm state of mind and avoid being too anxious or fearful about the virus. Listening to classical music has been proven to help people relieve stress.

Traditional Chinese medicine has been included as one of the key medicine used to treat coronavirus-infected patients in China,  a spokesperson from China’s State Council revealed on Tuesday. 

Although no cure has yet been found for the virus, there has been a high recovery rate among coronavirus patients who receive such treatment. 

More than 90 per cent of the coronavirus patients in China have shown improvement after being given traditional Chinese medicine as part of their treatment, according to Chinese media.  

Six patients in the Wuhan Leishenshan Hospital have reportedly recovered in March after receiving TCM-only treatment, including acupuncture sessions.

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Useful Links

  1. Revolutionary I Ching App Harness ChatGPT for Hexagram Insights, Apple App Store – Google Play Store
  2. Collection of engaging and enlightening stories for children that explore the principles of Taoism. Download on Amazon
  3. Learn more about the aiching.app
  4. Interested in Tai Chi?

Posted by Slanted Flying in Training  Tai Chi is the perfect moving meditation. I’ve found mindfulness and Tai Chi to be perfectly joined to boost mindfulness training. In our Tai Chi training we are often told to be mindful. So what is mindfulness, and why is it important to our practice of Tai Chi Chuan. Mindfulness is being aware, in the moment, being present in what you are doing and where you are at that moment.

We need to be mindful of all parts of the body, not only the isolated parts. For example in the movement “Single Whip”, it is very easy to be focused on the lead hand opening out, and not on the the opposite (hooked) hand or on the movement of the legs. This act of being mindful helps to not only unite the parts of the body together, but also the mind and the body.

Jon Kabat-Zinn, Ph.D. is known internationally for his work as a scientist, writer, and meditation teacher. In this video below, he explains his working definition of mindfulness. This is another look at the meaning of mindfulness so we might better understand its use in our practice of Tai Chi Chuan.

In the video, he talks about an interesting and important part of mindfulness. That is to be non-judgmental while being mindful. Jon Kabat-Zinn then goes on to say what he means is to not to be caught in those judgements which colour the things we like or dislike.

How could being non-judgmental in our mindfulness affect our practice of Tai Chi Chuan? Perhaps one might not like the way the teacher is telling you how to learn a movement, which you might not quite agree with. If you practice this movement with that judgment in your mind, then you are not being truly mindful, and being in the moment to be aware of all the things that need attention. Perhaps you are proud of yourself that you can do the movements so well. Does this cloud your mindfulness so that you don’t notice flaws in your Tai Chi moving meditation?

Practicing your Tai Chi Chuan with true mindfulness is very difficult. There are so many things to remember when learning and even for those that have been practicing for many years. By practicing being mindful in the beginning stages of your training, you ingrain an important part of your training that will become more important as your Tai Chi develops.

As one becomes more proficient in their Tai Chi Chuan, the practice becomes more of an exercise of the mind more than of the body. The ability to maintain mindfulness in one’s practice is an integral part of achieving higher levels in the development of Tai Chi Chuan.

Tai Chi is a moving meditation

I was fortunate enough to have started Tai Chi a moving meditation at a very early age. Practising Tai Chi for over 25 years has allowed me to build a solid foundation to support the most important aspect of EQ development, which is attention training.

If you are interested in supporting yourself or helping the teams you manage, the links below can help you learn more about EQ training.

  1. What is EQ?
  2. Emotional Intelligence Training Course
  3. Learn to meditate with the Just6 App
  4. Meditation and the Science
  5. 7 reasons that emotional intelligence is quickly becoming one of the top sought job skills
  6. The secret to a high salary Emotional intelligence
  7. How to bring mindfulness into your employee wellness program
  8. Google ’Search Inside Yourself’

Useful Links

  1. Revolutionary I Ching App Harness ChatGPT for Hexagram Insights, Apple App Store – Google Play Store
  2. Collection of engaging and enlightening stories for children that explore the principles of Taoism. Download on Amazon
  3. Learn more about the aiching.app
  4. Interested in Tai Chi?