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I’m not sure how to apply the taoist breathing methods CD to the training. Would I, for example, sit down and do the first breathing method until it seems effortless…then while walking in a straight line, do the straight line while breathing using the first breathing method? When I can walk the straight line and do breathing #1, then switch to walking the straight line and doing breathing method #2 and so on?
Any advice from those more experienced greatly appreciated.
Hi James,
there is a principle called ‘separate and combine’ that you will often hear mentioned in Energy Arts.
It is pretty much impossible to consciously monitor all 16 of the neigung components while you are doing a form (tai chi, bagua etc.) so you take one piece, breathing in your case, and work it by itself until you have a degree of fluency with it.
Once that happens the component will come online automatically when you do your form – you can look for it to fine tune things but you can work it in isolation and let it manifest in the form.
Another concept you’ll hear about is ‘circular learning’ – you learn something, get to a degree of fluency and move on. After a while (a month, a year…) you relearn it to access deeper information. You body and mind will open gradually over time and reveal more of the subject each time you relearn it.
This is one of the coolest things about the Taoist approach to learning – there is always more to discover.
One other phrase that Bruce uses a lot – “don’t let the great be the enemy of the good!” – take it easy, enjoy the journey and let things develop naturally.
Trevor
OK, that clears it up Trevor. I like the automatic aspect of it.
Thanks again,
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