| Feature Article Tao of Learning
–
Chief Instructor Brett Wagland
The word, Tao, means way or method. In Chinese
culture, it also refers to an attitude or philosophy, such as, going with the flow and
adapting to change.
Tai Chi has absorbed many aspects of the traditional Chinese culture. The philosophy of
Yin Yang is clearly reflected in each of the Tai Chi postures. The legs move slowly from
solid to empty, lower and upper body is coordinated, and the internal (mind, energy,
breath and organs) is harmonised with the external (muscles, joints, bones and skin).
Ultimately, the art of Tai Chi is about balance, both physical and emotional.
When students begin learning Tai Chi, they
are faced with many new concepts. It is not enough to speak about relaxation. The mind and
body need to express it. Many of us find it challenging, as we try to move our bodies in
harmony, while using such unusual postures to achieve this.
It is not long before we begin to feel frustrated and disappointed. “I thought Tai
Chi was easy to do, but it’s one of the hardest things I’ve ever learnt,”
said one student recently. However, with each lesson, he finds it easier.
 Tai Chi has been evolving for centuries. It is considered to be a high level
health and martial art in China. This ancient art is a treasure of knowledge – a
living philosophy. Tai Chi is a great tool for helping us to develop. It teaches us
patience, perseverance, self discipline and most of all, balance. It is important to keep
things in perspective. If we expect to master the art quickly, we will miss the joy of the
present moment. As long as you are feeling more relaxed, greater freedom of movement, or
less aches and pains, Tai Chi is working for you.
It is unrealistic to compare yourself with the instructors or other students. Everyone is
different with his own set of circumstances. We do Tai Chi for our own benefit, not for
others. Tai Chi encourages a positive attitude which is in line with principles of
traditional Chinese medicine.
It takes time for the body and mind to change and develop. If you persist, you will notice
progress. Gradually, you will look forward to your practice.
In Zen Buddhism, they say enlightenment comes through practice. Practice is all important.
In a sense, those who practise are participating in an enlightenment activity. Remember
that learning is developing – it is never ending. The most important lesson to learn
is to master ourselves: to transform our impatience to patience, our arrogance to
tolerance, our fear to confidence and our ignorance to wisdom. In other words, through
training with awareness, we overcome our weaknesses and grow stronger.
As the maxim goes, he who masters himself is the true master. It is not a project that has
a completion date. Every day is a new day with challenges which enable us to discover our
resourcefulness. As long as we live, we are practising. Learn to enjoy the experience.
Wishing you all a long, fulfilling and happy journey!
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