I went outside as I do before the end of each evening and the beginning of each day. It was ready to rain, and rather cool, but there they were two people doing something that really is very interesting to say the least.
I have seen several different Chinese people that practice various styles of meditative arts from China. This evening I was on the back porch to just see how what the weather would be like and then from a distance I saw 500 yards away two Chinese ladies with wooden sticks.
I approached them and introduced myself, but there definitely was a language gap . The elder lady was teaching the other one a style of art that goes back more than a thousand years.
Even though we could not speak, they knew by my hand movements of what I wished to do. Then they placed down and just did a fast video of Tai chi. I am sure the eldest lady was easily 70 years of age. They smiled and if only there would have been a sunset - this would have been something to really take a longer video of. Each night they are out doing different versions of "chi" and what goes with it. I thought it was interesting, I have seen it done before with over 50 people.
As well it is practiced now all around the world. I only wish the weather would have been better but it was done spontaneous. I see this at 6 in the morning and at 9pm at night. If they knew English I would have been able to do something more. But it’s a remarkable thing to see in the morning.
I couldn’t resist getting the video at some point in time.
I said thank you in Cantonese, but they must have spoken Mandarin. But it's an amazing art form.
ReplyDeleteG'day Jack,
ReplyDeleteMy nephew-in-law does it beautifully as well, he is Down Syndrome, the tai chi was taught to him to help his coordination & relaxation, It is wonderful to watch it being practiced
It is relaxing just watching.
ReplyDeleteJack, I don't think you would have a problem with anyone not understanding if they don't speak the English language. Just smile :) and show the camera. :)
I don't mind that you don't mind Denise, sooo shhh and watch it then. :)
ReplyDeleteIt's really all about breathing, harmony, slow movements that are symbolically based and Tai Chi is truly something that should be incorporated within hospitals before certain patients leave. I strongly believe in that. It's about "breath power" but within the power is the flow.
ReplyDeleteIn this hectic time the slowness is soothing. I think it's really helpful to perceive those slow movements, to listen to one's own breath. I wish I was brave enough to reserve time for such an exercise. I like the video, Jack, thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteYou most welcome Petra. I see them out there each and everyday. Early in the morning and towards the evening. These two were a part of a group. And finding that time is something that we are not all privy too. You are a good friend in this virtual blogosphere.
ReplyDeleteI love to see people practicing Tai Chi. I had the opportunity to follow Tai Chi lessons at the Community Center here in Dorval a few years ago. Unfortunately, doing it only one hour a week is not enough to learn and remember all the movements which all have beautiful names such as Carry Tiger to Mountain. The position of the hands with space between fingers keeping the thumb lower is called Mouth of the Tiger. If you notice towards the 2/3 of the video, they seem to be holding something between their hands, I believe that is the movement called Reach Up to Pat Horse. It is something to which I will certainly return in the future. It is very good for people with arthritis for example because it elongates every parts of the body to the maximum, a very good way to stay supple. Thanks for sharing, it is very peaceful to watch or practice Tai Chi.
ReplyDeleteSome time now that they know me. I will get up early on the weekend and do one of 15 of them doing what they do while the sun rises. That is something to see.
ReplyDelete