| Feature Article
Living
in the Moment Brings True Happiness
–
Chief Instructor Brett Wagland
My teachers have always emphasised the idea that whatever you do, do it well. This simple
concept contains great wisdom. How many times have you had to face the negative
consequences of a job poorly done? Our actions, words and thoughts all have an effect,
positive or negative. Thoughtless words cause emotional pain or lead to physical violence.
Thoughtless actions may haunt us forever. Negative thoughts affect our health and
well-being.
Today, there are so many things that we can do, learn and enjoy. Choices seem
overwhelming. There is always something new. If we try to do too many things, for example,
learn to play music, develop computer skill, work, look after the family, cook, etc., our
time and energy are spread thinly across these activities. Quality of time and effort will
naturally be compromised and results may be mediocre.
 In
Tai Chi and martial arts training, we learn to focus fully on what we are doing. In
Buddhism, this is called being in the moment. This ability to focus completely on the task
at hand enables us to gather and concentrate all our available physical, mental and
emotional resources to achieve the best outcome.
In our Tai Chi training, we practise the Quiet Standing (Chi Kung). This is a form of mind
training. Our minds tend to be clouded with thousands of seemingly random thoughts. We are
easily distracted and become reactive, instead of pro-active. Bad news and difficult
problems tend to depress or intimidate us. We become controlled by what is out there,
instead of what is happening within. By learning to strengthen our focus and sense of
purpose, we become more stable and resilient.
One of my teachers, who is also a traditional Chinese medical practitioner, always
emphasises the importance of Chi Kung, because this practice will strengthen our essential
energy. It will improve our minds and build confidence. It teaches us self-control and
gradually, it helps to calm the mind. The ability to keep the mind still and remain
centred helps us to deal with problems more effectively. My teacher says that when we are
able to quiet the mind, we will begin to think more clearly and deeply. Dwelling on
negative events which have long passed indicates a lack of self mastery. Most people find
themselves turning over their problems again and again, even though no new insight is
gained from this vicious circle. Practising Chi Kung will teach us to turn off the
incessant chatter of the mind, giving it a rest.
Many of us live out our lives in a routine, almost trance-like state, to a point where we
are no longer living, but only existing. Tai Chi and related disciplines help us to
develop our mind and body. They challenge our habitual conditioning and our perceptions of
what we are capable of. Most of us do not know how to overcome our weaknesses. We are
constantly underestimating the tremendous unrealised potential of our minds. Everyone
wants happiness. Most of us spend endless amounts of energy and time looking for
happiness. If we are able to appreciate the moment and focus our minds on what we do, we
will find greater enjoyment and fulfilment in our daily lives.
With the right attitude and effort, we can all develop. Good luck and stay on the path!
Remember that it's quality, not quantity, that counts.
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