There is much that we can discuss and study when it comes to posture, but first we want to understand that posture is as much reaction as it is intention. It is something we have present when we stand, sit, and walk which is one of the reasons we discuss the Three Treasures of walking, standing and sitting so much in qi gong and tai ji. Posture is also intrinsically connected to our breath and sense of our space(internal and external). For these reasons we want to develop a more accepting, logical and practical understanding of posture as we study these arts. Certain aspects of our posture we can affect right away, like our focus, tongue to pallet, and grounding the feet. Others will take time, like core stability, leg strength, and greater awareness of center(of mass). Qi gong training improves all of these qualities naturally so postural improvements are part of the "rising tide" as well as one of the ships being risen. So what are some important, real time cues you can make to improve posture across all areas. Yi Dao Xian | Awareness finds the horizon - Lift gently from the crown of the head and suspend the head top. Eyes rest at level that should be able to rest in your space as if reading a book as well as glancing out to find the horizon as if on a plain, ship or peak. Head on a swivel. Like walking backwards, a lot of new information can come from the panorama. Tongue to pallet -internal postural awareness connected to breath, neck and jaw health. This is an ongoing aspect of our practice. Greater awareness to this area will bring benefits in both the short and long term. In taoist physical theory, tongue gently, yet firmly suctioned to the pallet was the neutral resting place of the tongue at all times. Don't over worry about the challenge this may or may not present in your practice. The body is deeply aware of how to manage these inputs. Simply allow that intention to become part of our practice in its own way. And as always, Relax, Be Present, Listen, Follow & Flow.

📆 Live Session Schedule 🌱 Every Tuesday & Thursday (except 27th) - Weekly Qi (Qigong) 8AM - Qi & Flow (Tai Chi) 8:30AM 🌱 Sunday, Nov 2, 9, 16, 30 - Weekly Qi (Qigong) 9AM - Qi & Flow (Tai Chi) 9:30AM - (Starting half an hour later due to the cooler mornings) ✔️ All times are listed in Pacific Time (PST). ✔️ All sessions are recorded and available in the community classroom if you miss the live session. ✔️ You can find the link for each live session in the calendar tab. (We’ll also post the link a day before.) Mark your calendar, stay consistent, and let’s continue to move, breathe, and grow together this November🍂