Thursday Practice

 

The Details:

It's 59 at the house. I've got a guitar lesson at 1 and then music in The Barn from 2-4 this afternoon.

The Practice:

I started on The Deck with Echo assisting with a full round of the original 10 Exercises. I continue to prepare this set to present at Saturday mornings class.

Next I moved to my main training area and did a Round (right side) reciting the Taiji Classics during Parts I & II. I remained focused on TLB (Taoist Longevity Breathing) in and out through the nose. I had a profound connection to nature.

Next I did a round (both sides) of Cheng style Old 8 Palms focused on Mud-Wading Step and Soong Shoulders. I did not rest my arms in between postures or when switching sides. I did on circle in each position around my Bagua Poles.

Next I did a round of Anyo Walo focused on the quality of my basics.

Next I did a round Sanchin Kata focused on Breathing, dynamic tension and connecting my DanTien (Hara) to my punches and strikes.

Next, using my Dragon Canes, I did a round of Modern Arnis Cane Anyo's 1-4 (both sides) I focused mainly on correct sequence and the overall quality of my postures and basics as well as applications.

I ended with a short Standing (PT) and Healing Qigong while I returned to the house to journal today's practices.

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Wednesday Practice

The Details:

It's 63 at the house. It's a bonafide rainy day. I'm going to start packing a drum set for the gig this weekend.  

The Practice:

I started on The Deck under the awning because it was raining.

I did a full round of the original 10 Exercises focused on preparing them to present to the Taiji Class this coming Saturday.

Next I went up to The Loft and did a Round (right side). I recited my version of The Taiji Classics during Part I and focused on the quality of my Empty Steps, Zhong Ding and Taoist Longevity Breathing.

Next I did a Standing (PT) session tuned into the Taoist order of postures.

Next I did Healing Qigong. 

Next I researched the names of Changes 5-8 of Yin Style Baguazhang (both sides) I recited the names of the postures and Palms as I did them. I'd really like to memorize the names of postures for all 8 Changes. I'm a little more than 1/2 there! Perseverance!

Next I did a round of Anyo Pito tuned into using the correct sequence in the correct direction and flow.

Next I did a round of Sunsu Kata focused on sequence and basics.

Next I went back outside, this time to my main practice area with two wooded broadswords and did a round (one side) of Taiji Double Dao tuned into shoulder health with every 'round the head' movement.

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Tuesday Practice

 

The Details:

It's 59 at the house. I realized yesterday that I skipped the second Yin style Baguazhang Set - 8 Palms. I inadvertently practiced Cheng style Baguazhang 8 Mother (Animal) Set for day's 4&5. Perhaps that's the order I should do them in? Hmmmm! It's a Ponton day. Two weeks go by so fast....Wow!

The Practice:

I started in my main practice area with a round of Low Family Staff (one side) focused on the correct sequence.

Next I drove into the YMCA and did a round of CYBEX strength training (I had a chat wth Judy Kratz) and then shopping for lunch at the Co-op.

Next: After arriving home and putting lunch away I went back out to my main training area and did a full round of the original 10 exercises (I plan on doing them with class on Saturday) focused on the correct sequence for the original set. The original set is much less complicated that the 10+ which I usually do. They take less time to get through also which is always an issue teaching a class. Students count on classes starting and ending on time. That is not an issue when I'm training on my own.

Next I did a Round (left side) reciting the Taiji Classics during Part I I tuned into the Feeling throughout the Round. I had a profound connection to nature.

Next I did a round of Standing Post Training (PT) focused on using the Taoist Formula of starting and ending with the easiest postures and putting the most difficult/challenging in the middle.  

Next I did Healing Qigong.

Next I did a round of Yin Style Baguazhang 8 Palms Set Changes 1-4 (both sides) reciting the names of the postures aloud. I focused on Lion Walking and posture of my hands. 

Next I did a round of Anyo Apat - This may be one of my favorite Modern Arnis Anyo (Forms) I mainly focused on applications and correct sequence as well as the quality of my basics.

Next I did a round of Kusanku Kata focused on agility and mobility. I also focused on using deeper Stances and light body during the leaping sections. I used a single outside/inside Crescent Kick in the middle and light body during the Flying Front Kick. 

After ending I returned to the house to journal today's practice.

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Monday Practice

 

The Details:

It's 56 at the house. I've got a standing video meeting with Jeff at 8:30. Ginnie went to Noho for a follow up on her hip.

The Practice:

Around 9 am I went out to The Deck with my training partners Echo and started with a full round of the 'original' 10 Exercises. I was focused on making The 10 more digestible for Students and not taking up too much time during a class. I'm hoping if students memorize the set they at least have a chance to incorporate them into a daily practice. Dr. Leung told me that as one ages the only thing left is the practice of The 10 Exercises. I've added the + part on my own, but I suspect that that will be too much of the average student to take on. 

Do What You Can,

When You Can

Next I did a Round (left side) reciting my version of The Taiji Classics during Part I. I remained focused on monitoring the principles as I went into "NO MIND" mode.

Next I did Changes 5-8 (both sides) of Cheng style Baguazhang 8 Mother (Animal) Form. Since I put this set into my weekly rotation I'm amazed at how comfortable and easy the Changes have become. Yay....Practice works!

Next I did a round of Anyo Lima. I had a glitch at the end but went back and worked it out. I focused on applications.

Next I did a round of Chinto Kata tuned into mobility and agility.

Next I went out to my main practice area and did a round of Monkey Staff (one side) focused on correct sequence and the overall quality of my postures as well as flow from posture to posture.

Sunday Practice

 The Details:

It's 69 and very humid. The dew is so thick the ground is wet. I'm going to visit Paul in Hatfield early this afternoon. It's Melinda's birthday today! I've a text thread going with Jason K. He's dealing with an injured back among other things. He said he's trying to make it to his birthday before retiring from the Gfld. Police Force. I'm happy to hear that he has set a date. That job is eating him alive;^(

The Practice:

Around 10 I started on The Deck with Echo and a full round of The 10+. This set is feeling better and better the more I do them.

Next I went out to my main practice area. It was getting too hot/humid and sunny on The Deck.

Once I got there and got settled I did a Round (left side) to Master Liang's music with him counting the beats. I was able to stay on track and grateful for the verification from the music and count. I noticed how little 'set up' time the music allows. IF you are not in constant Zhong Ding the pace will seem very fast. However if you DO maintain relaxed balance throughout the form the pace is more than doable. It reminds me of getting a song up to speed when you are learning chord changes. IF you hesitate you loose the groove. You have to have the changes happening without having to pause to form the new chord. All it takes is practice and eventually you will be able to perform the song 'at speed'. Remember Taijiquan is the fastest martial art in existence.

Next I did Changes 1-4 (both sides) of Cheng style Baguazhang 8 Mother (Animal) Form. I had a little glitch on the right side of #3 (Bear Palm) but I worked it out. 

Next I did a round of Anyo Apat tuned into the correct sequence and adding snap to all the punches and kicks.

Next I did a round of Wansu Kata focused on the overall quality of Stance, Transitions, Punches and Kicks.

Next I used a heavy maple 6' Staff to do a round of Taiji Staff (both sides) I had a little glitch at the end on the right side.

I ended with Healing Qigong and returning to the house to journal today's practices.

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Saturday Practice @ The Studio

 

The Details:

It's 63 at the house. I'm going into The Studio this morning for the 8:00 Taiji and Qigong Class.

The Practice:

Once I arrived at The Studio and put my home trash in the dumpster I opened The Studio. Fist Luke and his mom (Joan) arrived. I met with Luke (and Jeff) in the office to discuss what will happen to the space once formal classes stop next month. It went well with Luke. I'm hoping to develop a strong connection with him especially the 6 months that I'm in Leyden.

Jeff started the group on Sifu Ray's 30 Warm Ups. I introduced the concept of Yang (movement) and Yin (no movement) or knowing when to stop a part from moving while maintaining movement in other parts. I used the "Washing Machine" (#10 of the 10 Exercises) and used the example: That a bungee cord will only stretch if one end is anchored down. The main correction to the group was their shoulders in #4 and knees in #5.

Next Jeff did Standing (PT) and I led through one round of 1. Alignment (external) from the bottom up and 2. Release (Soong) from the top down. I said everything out loud.

Next we did a Round (right side) I recited my version of the Taiji Classics during Part II

We ended with a brief Standing (PT)

I stayed and watched the Youth Karate class giving suggestion to Malcolm and Jeff. 

I had a good conversation with Ron

I stayed for the second Youth Karate class (only Malcolm) I watched and commented on The 10 pointing out the changes I made to accommodate the youth class in comparison to the original set from Dr. Leung.

I had a bit more conversation about the next step with Luke and Jeff.

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Friday Practice

 

The Details:

It's 63 at the house. I had the opportunity yesterday to sign up for the Maldives Dive Trip in February 2026. I'm a little nervous but it's better than being left behind. Going on this liveaboard is more of a portal and less than a rabbit hole. The decision to go on this Dive Trip provides me many opportunities for growth as I face my fears.

The Practice:

I started on The Deck with my trusty training partners; Echo and nature! I did a full round of The 10+ tuned into relaxed balance, abdominal breathing (through the nose). 

Next I went out to my main practice area and did a Round (right side). I used a metronome set at 60 BPM with two tones (downbeat and upbeat) to help with the Start and Stop of the Postures.

I did 12 beats of Stillness at the end of the Round.

Next I did Standing (PT) and Healing Qigong.

Next I did Changes 5-8 (both sides) of Yin Style Baguazhang 8 Linking Set. This set is feeling better and better as I continue to practice it more regularly. The practice of this Set feels really good. I'm noticing an uptick in my Relaxed Balance (Zhong Ding) during the Kick Up sequences.

Next I did a round of Anyo Tatlo focused on using a light body and more air during the Progressive Stepping sequences.

Next I did a round of Seiunchin Kata tuned into lower stances and more pop and focus in all the techniques.

Next I did a round of Taiji Dao using a wooden broadsword. Tuned into the timing of my steps and techniques.

Next I did a round of Pa-Kua Knife. I'm making progress with the sequence. Yay!

I finished with Healing Qigong as I was returning to the house to journal today's practice.

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Internal Power in Baguazhang

Thursday Practice

 

My Lung Ching Jian - It's Jian Day today -

The Details:

It's 68 at the house. I've got a guitar lesson here in Leyden at 1 and then music in The Barn from 2-4. Busy afternoon. It's forecast to be in the 90's again this afternoon. Oy! It is August!!

The Practice:

Around 9 I went out on The Deck with Echo and started The 10+ I did the first three before Echo decided it was time to go back inside. It was hot, foggy and wet on The Deck.

Next I went out to my main practice area and finished with The 10+ focused on consistency and not overthinking.

Next I did a Round (left side) reciting my version (I keep adding to it) of the Taiji Classics during Part I. I tuned into my connection with the forest and some individual trees as well as monitoring my Taoist Longevity Breathing, especially the breathing fresh air in and out through my nose.

Next I did Changes 1-4 (both sides) or Yin Style Baguazhang 8 Linking Form. I recited the names of the postures aloud as I did the Changes.I tuned into Relaxed Balance during the Kick Ups and monitoring the amount of twist throughout my body. There is a turn (ala a dog chasing it's tail) however it doesn't just continue twisting it consciously (at first) stops and the correct amount of twist. It takes Ting (awareness)!

Next I did a round of Anyo Dalawa focused on using proper techniques and applications.

Next I did a round of Naihanchi Kate tuned into the changes I've made to that Kata. It seems that I keep going back (inadvertently) to the 'old way', unless I consciously enforce the changes, it slips back. Oy!

Next I did a round of Taiji Jian Form reciting the names of the postures aloud throughout the Form.

I finished with Healing Qigong and returning to the house to journal my practice.

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Wednesday Practice

 

The Details:

It's 65 at the house. It's forecast to be in the 90's this afternoon.

The Practice:

I started up in The Loft in my music studio making a CD of last weeks Jam with Shubal and Bobby V.

While I was making the CD I did The 10+ and balanced our joint checkbook.

Afterwards I went out to my main practice area to be outside and finish my practice.

Once I arrived and got settled I started a Round (right side) reciting the Taiji Classics during Part I. I had a few glitches in Parts II & III but I stayed calm and centered and went back to either repeat the sequence of do it if I did indeed miss it. It's my usual M-O when I think I may have inadvertently skipped a section. I'm noticing more and more if my attention waivers I may inadvertently 1. Switch sides 2. Skip a section. I find that when I make an error and I recognize and accept that I did make an error, staying equanimous provides a perfect opportunity to work on my Indomitable Spirit.

Next I did session of Standing PT (Post training) focused on Soong and using the Taoist Formula of most difficult in the middle and easier at the beginning and end as well as Taoist Longevity Breathing throughout.

Next I did a round of Cheng style Baguazhang Yin/Yang Walking focused on the details of the movements and feeling the Changes instead of counting the steps. The more I practice this method the more I see the benefits.

Next I did a round of Anyo Isa focused on light body during the Progressive Steps and the quality of my basics.

Next I did a round of Seisan Kata focused on the timing of Shuffle and Punch/Strike

Next I did a round of Taiji Cane (both sides) focused on Whole Body in every movement. 

I finished with Healing Qigong and returned to the house to journal today's practice.

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Tuesday Practice

 

The Details:

It's 64 at the house. I'm not going into The Studio this morning. The end of an era for sure. It feels a bit weird but I'll be going in on Saturday morning instead. Hopefully that will allow me to connect to more students and Jeff too. I'm going to bring my Beemer to Ray's for service this morning. Hopefully the third try is the charm. I heard from Wayne that TP Tom has been diagnosed with bone cancer...Ugh! Yet another friend that is having health problems. FYI - It's all about your health!! Your health is the first and foremost thing to be concerned with. 

The Practice:

Around mid-morning I went out to my main practice area and started with a full round of The 10+ focused on consistency and overall health.

Next I did a Round (left side) focused on Slow and Smooth. I felt Soong >Peng throughout the Round.

Next I did a round of Anyo Walo tuned into full extension with added pop on my punches and strikes

Next I did a round of Sanchin Kata tuned into the track of my punches, the quality of my dynamic tension (without being stiff or overly tense, as well as abdominal breathing and connecting the DanTien (Hara) with my punches and strikes.

Next I did a 1-4 Modern Arnis Cane Anyo's (both sides of all of them) I did have a glitch at the end of #4 on the left side. 

I finished with Healing Qigong as I returned to the house to journal todays practice here in this blog.

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Monday Practice

 

The Details:

It's 64 at the house. It's forecast to be in the 90's again this afternoon. Yet another 'heat wave' Ugh!

It's Monday so I've got an 8:30 video meeting with Jeff this morning.

The Practice:

Around mid-morning I went out to The Deck with Echo to practice.

I started with a full round of The 10+ focused on health and consistency. I remain committed to doing a round of The 10+ every single day. If I do a 'brief warm ups' I feel that I'm short changing myself. I realize how incredibly healthy this set is but I still have to actually do them regularly. Without consistent daily practice there isn't a magic bullet, you simply have to do them! Don't think, just DO.

Next I moved to my main training spot to do a Round and finish going through my forms of the day (it's Day #7)

I started with a Round (right side) reciting the Taiji Classics during Part I. I focused developing a profound connection to nature's Qi.

Next I did Changes 4-8 of Cheng Baguazhang 8 Morther (Animal) Set. I still have a glitch at #8 (The Monkey Palm). The question is in left guard to I first go left or right? Hmmmm!! I'll keep working on it.

Next I did a round of Anyo Pito. I've got a glitch towards the end of this Anyo. I tuned into doing the correct sequence.I think I worked it out.

Next I did a round of Sunsu Kata tuned into the health benefits and using quality basics throughout.

Next I did a round of Taiji Dao using Master Liang's broadsword. I tuned into the timing of step and shuffle as well as keeping my eyes focused on the tip of the broadsword.

Next I did a round of Pa-Kua Knife. I got a little further today, but I'm still struggling with the correct sequence.

I finished with Healing Qigong before returning to the house to journal today's practice here in this blog.

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Sunday Practice

 The Details:

It's 63 at the house. 

The Practice:

I started inside with a full acoustic guitar practice.. I'm still not able to use my right hand index finger for Travis Picking. I've been using just my middle finger to do the picking. Although my daily practice has shortened I'm trying to not let it lapse entirely. I cancelled my guitar lesson last Thursday but I'm hoping to be able to do it this coming Thursday. Fingers Crossed (no pun intended) 

Around mid- morning I went out to my main practice area and began with a full round of The 10+. I used what I've learned from my evening oral care routine to Just Do It. It worked I got it in. My main focus was being consistent. Consistency is more important than intensity IMHO.

Next I did a Round (left side) reciting the Taiji Classics during Part I. I had a little glitch at the end of II and beginning of III so I calmly went back in the sequence to make sure I did it. I had another glitch towards the end of III. My concentration was wavering! Oy!!

Next I did a Standing Post Training (Standing PT) focused on Soong Postures; Awareness + Alignment = Soong. The two hands clapping are Ting (awareness) & Soong (release and expand) 

Next I did a round Cheng Baguazhang 8 Mother (animal) Set Changes 1-4 (both sides). I tuned into using the correct sequence in the correct Kua on the circle. This Set is feeling better since I'v incorporated it into my daily routine. Of course that's the main idea! Yay!!

Next I did a round of Anyo Anim focused on quality basics, stances and applications.

Next I did a round of Kusanku Kata tuned into mobility and agility. I used deeper stance to enhance leg strengthening, especially during the Zen Dashi sequences.

Next I did Healing Qigong before returning to the house to journal today's practice here in this blog.

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Saturday Practice

 

The Details:

It's 59 at the house. Lot's of chores today and maybe a visit with Paul & Jean?

The Practice:

I went out to my main practice spot around mid-morning.

I started out with a full round of The 10+. I've been focusing on being consistent and not overthinking or making excuses but simply Doing Them. It's a lesson that I've learned from my oral routine every evening. I rarely really want to do the routine because I'm tired and just want to got to bed. But if I don't think about it and just do it, before I know I'm finished. The reality of this mind set is helping to inform the way I approach my martial arts and qigong practice. 

Don't think, just do!

Next I did a Round (right side) reciting the Taiji Classics during Part I. I tuned into a profound connection to Nature's Qi that was all around me. I felt a deep connection to the forest and individual trees, the sky, the air, the earth and the universe itself.

Next I did a round of Yin Baguazhang 8 Palms Set, Changes 5-8 reciting the names of postures and palm when I could. I need to work on memorizing the names of these postures.

Next I did a round of Anyo Lima focused on the correct sequence.

Next I did a round of Chinto Kata focused on the sequence and using a light body during the spins and jumps.I got turned around at the end. Oy!

Next I did a round of Monkey Staff tuned into the quality of my postures.

I finished with Healing Qigong and returned to the house to journal today's practice in this blog.

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Friday Practice

 The Details:

It's 69 at the house. I've texted Jean about visiting Paul later this morning. I'm waiting on a text back.

The Practice:

I went out on The Deck with my trusty assistant Echo around mid-morning to practice.

I began with a full round of The 10+ focused on health and consistency.

Next I did a Round (left side) reciting the Taiji Classics (my version) during Part I. I had a glitch in the sequence when I stopped to let Echo inside. I simply went back and repeated postures just to be sure that I got it all in.

Next I did Changes 1-4 (both sides) of Yin Styles Baguazhang 8 Palm Set. I recited the names of the postures throughout the round and stayed focused on the quality of my Circle Walking and the Postures in the Changes.

Next I did a round of Anyo Apat focused on correct sequence in the correct direction as well as applications.

Next I did a round of Wansu Kata tuned into Fa Jin my punches and kicks as well as correct sequencing and flow.

Next I did a round of Taiji Staff (both sides) tuned into lower stances during the one legged squat sequences as well as focusing on relaxed balance during the single leg standing sequences.

I ended with Healing Qigong before returning to the house to journal todays practice in this blog.

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Thursday Practice

 

The Details:

It's 63 at the house. Shubal and Bobby V. are coming over at 2 to make some music in The Barn.

During my practice I received a text from Wayne saying that Tipi Tom has had a relapse and the cancer is now in his bones. Ugh! Tough stuff!! Sending him Healing energy>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

The Practice:

I started out on The Deck with Echo around mid-morning.

I began with a full round of The 10+. I used reverse breathing and Hee/Haa sounds during #7, then the Dragons Back. I used 25lb to assist with #8, then a round of Ba-Ji. Full squats during #9 and The Three swings and Song Gong for #10.

Next I did a Round (right side) reciting my version of Taiji Classics (principles) during Part I. I maintained a light and nimble energy at my crown, as if my head was being held by a string from above but actually it was being expressed upward with Jin from within.

Next I went out to my main practice area:

and resumed my practice with a round of Yin Baguazhang 8 Linking Form Changes 5-8 (both sides). I'm starting to feel the effect of more regular Baguazhang practice. This set felt as good as it has for years.

Next I did a round of Anyo Tatlo tuned into quality basics and stances as well as applications.

Next I did a round of Seiunchin Kata focused on performing the Kata more system specific; releasing Jin at every opportunity.

Next I did a round of Taiji Dao using a wooden broadsword focused on correct sequence and flow.

 Next I reviewed what I could remember of Pa-Kua Knife. I can reconstruct the beginning and ending but get confused in the middle. I looked on YouTube but so far I haven't been able to locate anyone doing that particular version 

I ended with Healing Qigong before returning to the house to journal today's practice here in this blog.

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Wednesday Practice

 

The Details:

It's 67 at the house. It's Wed. so we are tentatively scheduled to run the 'crash boat' if the wind is 10 mph +

Ginnie has a SYC Board Meeting this evening. 

The Practice:

I went out to The Deck to practice around mid-morning.

I started with a full round of The 10+ focused on the changes I'm making and the order that I'm doing them in. I monitored principles throughout the set and used TL Breathing and a Calm Centered Mind (CCM) throughout.

I used a 25 lb dumbbell during #8 and triceps. I also did a bicep session with 20 lb's.

Next I did a Round (left side) reciting my version of The Taiji Classics during Parts I, II and III. I focused on Slow is Smooth, Smooth is Fast and using The Dragons Back during the Soong Jin and Peng Jin phases of postures.

Next I did a full round of Healing Qigong:                  

                                                      "Qi permeates my bones"

Next I did a round of Yin Baguazhang 8 Linking Set Changes 1-4 (both sides) reciting the names of the postures throughout.

Next I did a round of Anyo Dalawa tuned into sparking up my punches and overall flow, posture to posture. I also focused on applications.

Next I did a round of Niahanchi Kata focused on the changes that I'm making to this Kata.

Next I did a round of Taiji Jian with a wooden Jian. I recited the names of the postures throughout.

I finished with Lazy D with a wooden Jian in my left hand.

I came inside to journal today's practice here in this blog.

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Tuesday Practice at The Studio

 

The Details:

It's 59 at the house. I'm going to drive into Greenfield to The Studio to teach the 8:30 this morning. It's one of the last classes before closing The Studio next month.

The Practice:

After opening up, unlocking the doors, windows and starting the fans. I began with a round of Cheng Style Baguazhang Yin/Yang Walking focused on practicing long enough so that I could just feel the changes instead of counting the steps.

Next I did a round of Anyo Isa focused on full extension and pop on my punches and blocks.

Next I did a round of Seisan Kata using quality basics and stances as well as correct sequence, techniques and stances.

Next I did 1-6 of The 10+ and then Read and Phil came.Phil just stood at the doorway with a mask on, evidently Rob who was in Arnis class last night with Phil called to say he was sick but hadn't tested for CoVid 19 yet. Oy!!

After some conversation and discussion about the theme for the day's class:

"Calm Is A Super Power"

Start......Middle.......End

Part of the discussion is know when a part stops and during movements what moves and what doesn't move.

Next I finished The 10+ explaining what I was allowing to move and what parts I intended to keep still. I also talked about opening and closing the Kua without the knee moving as in the 3 swings and Song Gong.

After Phil left Read and I did a Round (right side) I recited the Taiji Classics during Part I. Read was able to get through Parts 1 & II and I did Part III on my own.

I finished with Healing Qigong, closing up and then went to the YMCA for a round of CYBEX strength training. 

I saw Don McCauley on the street as I was walking to the YMCA. I'm going to get my Roger's Bass Drum Hoop back. Yay!

Monday Practice

 

The Details:

It's 59 at the house. I have a 10:45 doctors appointment in Amherst this morning.

The Practice:

I went out to The Deck and did a full round of The 10+ focused on consistency and overall health.

Next I did a Round (left side) reciting the Tauji Classics during Part I

I finished with a Healing Qigong before returning inside to prepare for my appointment at 10:45. I wanted to get there about 15 minutes early to do the paperwork.

It was a tough appointment! Blair shot my finger full of Novocaine. Once I was numb enough, he cleaned out the wound and removed the dead skin, I broke out in a cold sweat and I felt a little sick to my stomach. I was happy when it was over! It needed to be done. The way my body's was with dealing with it was to get the area infected. The doctor ordered me a 10 day cycle of Doxi (antibiotic)

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Sunday Practice with Jeff

 

The Details:

It's 57 at the house. I've got Jeff scheduled for 10 this morning. My right index finger started off as a simple sliver (metal?) and has turned into this very swollen, puss filled, painful injury. I have an appointment with a dermatologist tomorrow morning in Amherst. I may try to relive some of the pressure on my own later this afternoon,

The Practice:

I started on The Deck with Echo doing a brief Warm Up.

Next I did a Round (left side) reciting the Taiji Classics during Part I. I was mostly tuned into being consistent and observing the principles without much conscious thought. 

Once Jeff arrived we started by chatting and drinking tea, I talked about the system I have implemented to regularly do a round of all the particular forms in American Karate, Modern Arnis, both sides of the Taiji Solo Form and all the weapons forms.

Next we practiced one side of The Taiji Dance. We did an isolated Vertical Push Hands session mostly focesed on fixed step (stationary) and identifying the 4 techniques during Vertical Push Hands and saying Hwa, Na and Da at the appropriate times throughout The Dance.

Next we did the intro and outro to Wuji Hundan Qigong and reviewed The Tea Cups and Look Far And Close as well as the Wuji  and Taiji Mudras along with the one that I used

Next we did Taiji 13 Spear with good results. I found a worksheet about the 13 Spear Two Person from 2008 and that helped me to flush it out.

Next we did 6, 8. 10 and 12 count drill (s) mainly focused on correct sequence.

Next we did Tapi Tapi session focused on remembering the discreet entrenches, exits and techniques. I've lost a lot from not having a regular practice partner.

Next we reviewed the Ice Pick Knife Disarm Drill...But my sore fingers got in the way and it was time so we stopped.

I came inside to journal today's practice in this blog.

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Saturday Practice

 

The Details:

It's 56 at the house. It's a busy day, first a Celebration of Life for Janee in Northfield at 11 and then a Wedding Party for Dylan and Giulia at Melinda and Daves. 

My right index finger has been really sore. I'm not sure what I need to do to help it heal. Hmmm!

The Practice:

Busy day! I got the chance to see family a couple of times today. Very nice service for Janee and wonderful wedding party for Dylan and Giulia

Before I went to Janee's Celebration of Life I went out on The Deck and started with a full round of The 10+ focused on being consistent and overall health.

Next I did a Round (right side) reciting the Taiji Classics during Part I. I focused on the peristaltic action in my lower and upper legs and the effect that it has on my heart and circulatory system.

Next I did a round of Cheng Style Baguazhang Old 8 Palms (both sides) focused on using relaxed shoulders and cultivating nature's Qi.

Next I did a round of Anyo Walo tuned into the quality of my basics. I remained focused on full extension and focus on my punches and blocks.

Next I did a round of Sanchin Kata focused on the quality of my dynamic tension and it's connection to my breathing. 

Next I did 1-4 Modern Arnis Cane Anyos (right side). I tuned into using a light body during the progressive steps and applications.

I finished with Healing Qigong before getting ready for the service.

After the Wedding Party I came home to journal the days practice here in this blog.

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Friday Practice - Day 8,798

 

The Details:

It's a cool 61 at the house this morning. We're scheduled to help out this evening at Melinda's in preparation for Dylan and Guilia's Wedding Party tomorrow afternoon. Our new IPhone 15's came yesterday. GG is attempting to transfer data from our old phones to the new 15's. EVERYTHING is complicated and confusing....Ugh!

The Practice:

I did a full acoustic guitar practice as is evidenced by the callouses on my fingers. I continue to apply my main training idea to the guitar; I.e. approaching the practice daily whether I feel like it or not. A goal is to have at least one 15 minute practice session per day. The other idea I use is to 'invest in loss' by practicing very specifically trying to play as 'cleanly' as possible. Even though playing a chord (especially F major) without inadvertently muting strings (cleanly) slows the process....It's the only way to become a good player. 

Next I went out to The Deck and did a full round of The 10+ focused on being consistent and overall health. I added 'Spiral Down, Spiral Up' at the end of the set. I've also added 25 lbs to my Wuji Squats (#8) as well as a dumbbell routine using 20 lbs dumbbells to do 1. Curls 2. Triceps 3. Back.

Next I did a Round (left side) reciting the Taiji Classics during Part I. I stayed focused on 1. Tongue at the roof of the mouth 2. Breathing in and out through the nose 3. Observing and monitoring with a meditative (third party) state of mind.

Next I did Standing PT and Healing Qigong.

Next I did a round of Anyo Pito monitoring the sequence and direction of postures.

Next I did a round of Sunsu Kata focused on the flow and sequence of postures as well as using high quality basics.

Next I did a round of Taiji Double Dao focused on shoulder health and hand/forearm strength. 

I finished by coming inside and journaling today's practice in this blog.

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