| Feature Article
Energy for Life - Cultivating the Mind
–
Chief Instructor Brett Wagland
Dr. Bruce Lipton, a cell biologist and former research
scientist at Stanford University School of Medicine, estimates that 95%
of the causes of illnesses are created by stress. Cells shift from the
growth mode into the self-protection mode during stress and this makes
them vulnerable to disease. Many of our past experiences, our general
health and our environment can all lead to stress. One of the main
contributors to stress is wrong beliefs. Beliefs are interpretations we
hold about the world. Many of our beliefs were formed when we were
quite young and have basically gone unchallenged all of our lives. Some
people stress out over the phone ringing while others look forward to
phone calls. For a surgeon or policeman, the phone ringing may be
associated with emergency. For a business, the phone ringing may mean
more clients.
From the Chinese medical model, strengthening the mind and
body will have a major effect on helping us to cope with life’s
difficulties more effectively. If one is unhealthy or low in energy,
one is more likely to become stressed easily. Tai Chi and Qigong are
often recommended because these practices can strengthen the body, mind
and internal energy. The training requires us to relax and focus our
minds. This teaches us to gradually let distractions go and also
develops a stronger, positive, more resilient mind.
Both the Taoists and Buddhists believe that the mind is the
root cause of disease. Emotions such as greed, hatred and ignorance
generate negative energy which causes imbalance in our bodies. The more
we focus on these negative emotions, the more problems we will have. We
all know how destructive constant negative thinking is. You can be
feeling really good, then you meet someone who complains about
everything and everyone. Soon you too begin to feel depressed. Your
energy level has been lowered. If you persist in this way, your body
and internal energy system will gradually weaken. Although you may
practise Tai Chi and other exercises, eat right, etc., you will
undermine all your good efforts if you continue to indulge in negative
thinking and behaviour. Generating positive energy through our thoughts
and deeds allows our body and energy system to function at its optimum
level.
Albert Einstein stated that everything is energy. Energy
can be transformed but not destroyed. Things vibrate at different
frequencies (energy patterns). Diseased cells, such as cancer, emit a
destructive energy pattern and can therefore be identified by MRI
(magnetic resonance imaging). If your body is weak or sick, you may
feel depressed. This is the time you need to be mindful. Begin by
changing your thinking. Practise any of the components from the Hun
Yuan system. Doing your Tai Chi practice will help to nourish your mind
and body. Your energy level will increase and you will feel refreshed.
Some students commented that they feel cleansed after their practice.
This detoxification happens on all levels – physically, mentally,
emotionally and energetically.
Often, we may not be aware of how our habitual patterns affect our
responses. Change does not happen overnight. We need to learn to be
diligent and consistent if we want to see positive changes in the
quality of our lives. Mindfulness is very important. Tai Chi training
teaches us to become more aware and to focus the mind. With regular
practice, we will reap the benefits on many levels. As we develop, we
are able to generate greater positive energy which benefits ourselves
and everyone we meet in our day-to-day life.
.TOP
|
