As the days grow shorter and colder it is natural to den up like a bear, our ancestors would sleep longer hours in the Winter embracing the natural rhythms of the season. In our modern society many have forgotten these rhythms. We constantly have our foot on the gas pedal of life. Especially during the late Autumn and Early Winter we are busy with family gatherings and celebrations We forget to slow down to the natural rhythms of the Season and to turn inward.
Through out the Winter season, Prairie Star will be focused on different self care practices you may enjoy, becoming more aware or present with the Season's natural rhythms. Two self care practice that teaches the art of slowing down and turning inward is Tai Chi and Qi Gong.
Tai chi and Qi Gong has become a popular form of moving meditation, teaching one to slow down and become aware of their surroundings while providing balance and releasing tension, allowing a person to be present in the moment. Tai Chi and Qi Gong are a form of martial art practice that is slow flowing movements that build Qi or energy within the body. Anyone can practice Tai Chi and Qi Gong, there are movements for standing and sitting.
There are many free videos to learn Tai Chi and Qi Gong on YouTube. I have included some links below of Teachers and my Master Teacher Suman. You may also find classes in your area by researching online. Many can be found at your local community center, yoga studio, or YMCA. My Master Instructor once asked me why I loved Tai Chi so much. I jokingly told him it was because it calms my belligerence. For myself, I find a sense of well being, harmony, and empowerment when I practice.
I am naturally a fire type, Tai Chi and Qi Gong help transform the fire to flow and not burn out. I have a great sense of physical balance, as well, and have escaped near miss falls (usually by my dog under my feet in the kitchen). I have been a Tai Chi and Qi Gong instructor for many years and still I continue to learn and grow in my practice. I may have an upsetting morning, for example when my beloved dog Thor vomited on my shoes right before I needed leave for class (true story lol), When I walk into class and start practicing, the outside world melts away. I no longer have concerns or worries about the day, or upset for the dog vomit on my shoes.(lol) I am aware of the energy in my body and have a sense of well being and peace. The students and I walk out of class with a smile.
Realizing my natural seasonal rhythms and practicing them is immensely rewarding. I feel a deep connection to my pioneer ancestors who endured the seasonal changes on the resilient prairie. I also feel completely human and connected to the Earth. May you find your path to the natural rhythms of the season.
Below I have listed the links to different youtube videos. One may resonate with you, if not, you may want to explore other teachers out there. What ever works well for you. Enjoy.
https://www.youtube.com/c/CenterLifeBalance
https://www.youtube.com/user/sumanbarkhas1 (My Master Teacher)
https://www.youtube.com/c/MimiKuoDeemer/featured (Mimi is amazing and has written many books)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ornNFC1Jxwc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FpxvNKewxHU&t=182s
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