Abdominal breathing

Abdominal Breathing

Saturday Practice

 

The Details:

It's 50 at the house. Brrrr! The sunrise was at 7:00. The high tide is at 7:56. I'm moving a bit slowly this morning. Nothing major just low energy?!?

The Practice:

Yesterday afternoon:

 After practicing Bass Guitar and Drum Set I went out to QW The Beach around 4:00. 

I QW The Beach north towards The Pelican Condos. 

Roll The Feet

Soften The Knees

Release The Lower Back, 

SI joints and hips

By aligning the head and shoulders.

The north wind was fierce! 

Note: I got caught up in the lines of a kite. Some guys were were learning how to 'Wind Boarding' on the beach using a practice kite before graduating to a full sized sail big enough to Wind Board with. After hitting me with the practice kite, he said he was avoiding hitting a shore bird with the kite, but I pointed out that's a bird, I'm a human being. Oy! 

At the furthest point north I did a session on mobility stretches. 

When I got back to 21st Ave I did a round of Cheng Style Baguazhang's 8 Animals Set and calisthenics on the Walkover before returning to the house. 

Today:

I started inside with acoustic guitar and drum set practice focused on remaining consistent in my every day practices. I've been working on acoustic guitar more than anything else. I remind myself that my main instrument is Drum Set and not to neglect my rudimentary practice pad work and coordination and ghost note practices on the Kit.

Next I went out to The Backyard and did a round of Pa-Kua Knife tuning into the correct sequence and direction of postures. I've been reviewing this form for a few days and it's coming along nicely.

Next I did a round of Taiji Dao tuned into the timing of steps and strikes. Using the front foot landing in stance as the primary timer when striking as opposed to the rear foot sliding up. 

Next I did a modified round of The 10+ tuned into the health benefits 

Next I did a Round of Taijiquan (right side) to Master Liang's music without the count. I stayed 'on beat' right until the very end where I ended up being 2-3 beats early. 

Next I did a round of Anyo Pito tuned into a more spirited round

Next I did a round of Sunsu Kata focused on the correct sequence and direction of postures

I ended with SPT (Standing Post Training) and Healing Qigong.

Friday Practice

 

                     Here's a photo of the Sego Palm in The Backyard. These are very ancient plants.

The Details:

It's 68 at the house. The sunrise was at 7:00. The high tide was at 7:15. I just realized I have 8-9 video meeting with Jeff this morning. Friday's come along pretty quickly these days. I week is like a blink or two. We've been in NSB for a month! Yikes!!

The Practice:

Once I got going....Ugh! It's taking self-discipline to start in order to continue practicing. 

I started outside on The Patio with a full round of The 10+ focused on being consistent and the health aspect of regular practice of these marvelous exercises.

Next I did a Round (left side) focused on observing from a third party perspective. I had a profound connection to nature Qi all around and inside of me. 

Breathing in Qi is in me,

Breathing out I am Qi

Next I did a round on Anyo Anim focused on applications and the quality of my stances and strikes.

Next I did a round of Kusanku Kata tuned into mobility, agility and overall health.

I ended with a SPT session and Healing Qigong.

Thursday Practice - Thanksgiving Day

 Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family and friends!

The Hibiscus is blooming in the backyard

Yesterday there was plenty of beach to walk on even though the high tide was in an hour!

The Details:

It's 61 at the house. The sunrise was at 6:59. The high tide was at 6:34. We have Bill and Nevin coming over late this afternoon to celebrate Thanksgiving with us. I'll be doing a bunch of cleaning and preparing for their arrival around 3:30 ish.

The Practice:

Yesterday afternoon:

I was pleasantly surprised, even though it was only an hour shy of high tide there was plenty of beach to walk and practice on.

I QW north just past The Pelican Condos and did mobility stretches. When I got back to the 21st Ave Walkover I did a full round of Yin Fu 8 Palm Set paying special attention to Changes #4-#7, reciting the names of the postures when possible.

Next on the Walkover I did a full round of calisthentics.

Today:

I started inside with guitar practice.

Next I went out to The Backyard around 10 and did a full round of The 10+ focused on health, mobility and agility. Self-Discipline was necessary throughout the session this morning. I've had a challenging time lately to get started and I feel that the quality of my practice sessions is suffering from my lack of engagement. It's usually easier.....Oh well! Just keep going!! 

Don't think, just DO!

When I got to #9 I did a round of Yin Fu 8 Palms Set, focused on 4-7

I also added Stand Up and Sit Down in a chair with arms folded.

I also added Heel Stomps and Jumping Jacks to add shock and vibration to my bone structure.

Next I did a Round (left side) reciting The Taiji Classics during Part I

Next I did a round of Anyo Lima focused on mobility and agility

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

I finished with Healing Qigong and Standing Post Training (SPT)

Wednesday Practice

 

       Our Vinca Periwinkle is Flowering in The Backyard. Sometimes it's called Madagascar Periwinkle. 

The Details:

It's 60 at the house. The sunrise was at 6:58. The last high tide was at 6:02. I've got a Zoom guitar lesson at 11 this morning.

The Practice:

Yesterday afternoon:

I QW south past 27th Ave. Even though it was only a couple hours from high tide, there was plenty of beach to walk and practice on. I focused on being Loose, Supple and Relaxed, counting 4 steps inhale 6 steps exhale. When I got back to 21st Ave I did a full round of calisthenics on the Walkover. When I got back to the house I did a Drum Set Session using Syncopation exercise (page) #7 and then an acoustic guitar session in preparation for my lesson on Wed.

Today:

I started with acoustic guitar practice in preparation for my lesson at 11 this morning.

Next I found the track "Taijiquan at 60 BPM with me counting ala Master Liang" then bluetoothed my JBL speaker to my laptop so that I could practice Taiji in The Backyard on The Patio Pavers.

I focused on consistency and the discipline that it takes to remain consistent. With the metronome the 'time' is more consistent. 

Next I did a short SPT and Healing Qigong

Next I went into my laptop to try and locate the original recording of The Taiji Music with Master Liang counting out the beats. I found it but was unable to figure out how to rename it so that I might be able to find it in the future. I don't practice to the music very often but I do find it inspiring to listen to and practice to Master Liang counting. The & at the end of the posture along with the 1 of the next posture really helps to dial in the 'stop without actually stopping' 

I've always been fascinated with the entire concept of time. As a drummer/musician and martial artist timing  is always an issue to stay aware of. 

Tuesday Practice

 

This morning about an hour before low tide. Plenty of beach to walk and practice on.

The Details:

It's 58 at the house. The sunrise was at 6:57. The last high tide was at 5:19. I plan on going out to the beach in a little while. Echo was sick last evening and still this morning.....Although at 10 he is up and eating....Time will tell.

The Practice:

Yesterday afternoon:

I QW The Beach north at around 5. The tide was low enough so that there was plenty of beach to walk on. I QW up to The Pelican Condos and did some mobility stretching. When I got back to 21st Ave I did some calisthenics before returning to the house.

Today:

I started inside with acoustic guitar practice. I worked on all the material that I've been covering in my lessons. I've got another lesson tomorrow morning at 11. I'll be practicing more today. I find the scheduled lessons keep me honest and motivated.

Around 8:30 I showered and got dressed to go out to the beach to practice. At 9 I QW up to The Wave. I was overdressed! So I took off my jacket and sweater. 

I started with a full round of Yin Fu 8 Palms 1-7 working extensively on #7 (eagle/bear), #6 (phoenix), #5 (unicorn) #4 (dragon) #3 (snake & hawk) #2 (double change palm) #1 (single change palm)

Next I did a full round of The 10+ at #9 I did a full round of Yin Fu 8 Palms Baguazhang.

Next I did a Round (left side) reciting the Taiji Classics + during Part I. I had a profound connection with the ocean and the horizon.

Next I did SPT and Healin Qigong

Next I did a round of Anyo Apat tuned into applications and good quality basics.

Next I did a round of Wansu Kata applying more fa jin throghout the Kata. My goal is to do these Kata's more in line with 'karate style' not stiffer but with more fa jin in the punches and kicks.

I finished by QW back to the house.

We've got the Best Buy guys delivering a new flat screen TV this afternoon and I need to get ready for the delivery.

Monday Practice

 

The Details:

It's 54 at the house. The sunrise was at 6:56. The last high tide was at 4:34.

Yesterday afternoon:

I was pleased that the tide cooperated for my late afternoon QW The Beach. I went out at 4:30 and the last high tide was at 3:44, so I was pleasantly surprised as you can see from the photo above there was plenty of beach to walk on.

I walked up to The Pelican Condos and did a few stretches before walking back to 21st Ave and across A1A to the house.

Today:

I started inside with acoustic guitar practice. I continue to work on Sugar Babe and Freight Train along with various finger style exercises using Pinch and Roll, Outside/Inside and Inside/Outside techniques.

Next I did Strength Training using TRX Straps, Dumbbells and Push-Up Bars. I've also added Heel Stomps and Jumping Jacks along with arms crossed Sit Down/Stand Up from a chair exercises and squats with dumbbells.

Next I went out to The Backyard and did a full round of The 10+ - I'm tuning into self-discipline; it's important to focus on developing and cultivating self-discipline, a necessary ingredient when striving for consistency and the higher levels of whatever skill you are wanting to develop.

Next I did a Round (left side) of Taijiquan reciting The Taiji Classics during Part I. I've been challenged by maintaining the correct side that I start on and sometimes the correct sequence too. I've been chalking it up to a directional thing because I'm inconsistent with the direction I start facing when I practice forms. But I suspect it's due to a lack of concentration when I realize I'm on the wrong side or out of sequence. There is an opportunity to check my reaction when I realize I've made an error. That's a positive thing to watch. After all, who really cares if you slip into the other side when practicing Taijiquan? When you realize and error in performance it's a good time to check your ego! After all it is slightly amusing....Eh?

Next I did SPT and Healing Qigong

Next I did a round of Anyo Tatlo focused on being light on my feet and leaping when performing the myriad of throws in this Anyo.

Next I did a round of Seiunchin Kata focused on the various 'energies' especially at the beginning of this Kata.

Stretching For Martial Arts

 

Stretching for martial arts training

Taijiquan applications

 

Taijiquan applications

Baguazhang studies

Interview with Cheng Style Baguazhang Master Liu Xing-Han

Sunday Practice

 

The Details:

It's a cool 50 at the house. The sunrise was at 6:56. The next low tide is at 9:42. 

The Practice:

Yesterday afternoon:

I went out at dusk to QW (Qigong Walk) The Beach. The tide was right to walk south towards 27th Ave. 

On the way back I paused to work on Yin Fu 8 Palms Change #5 (Unicorn) and #6 (Phoenix) I did some railing Push-Ups on the 21st Ave Walkover.

Today:

I went out to The Backyard to practice around 9.

I started with a round of Pakua Knife using a wooden broadsword (wooden katana). I focused on the correct sequence and directions (diagram of the form). It felt much more familiar than it did yesterday. I need to do that form more often. I plan on putting it in the regular rotation of weapons forms. 

Next I did a round of Taiji Dao with the wooden broadsword. I focused on the timing of steps/stance and strikes.

Next I did a brief warm up and some calisthenics. I've added Stand Up and Sit Down in a chair with arms folded. I noticed that I need to come to a full stop when seated, otherwise there can be a rocking action that proceeds the Stand Up portion of the exercises. When I come to a full stop there no residual momentum to assist with Standing Up. 

Next I did a Round (right side) for Parts I & II I used 2 1/2 lb wrist weights. I kept my arms closer to my center than without the wrist weights. I recited the Taiji Classics during Part III.

Next I did SPT (Standing Post Training) and Healing Qigong.

Next I did a round of Anyo Dalawa tuned into applications and adding more pop and focus to my punches and kicks.

Next I did a round of Seisan Kata concentrating on adding more pop and focus to my punches and kicks. 

Baguazhang Studies

POWER OF THE CIRCLE

Even Martial Circling Can Be a type of Daoyin Qigong

By John P. Painter

Making a mandala is a discipline for pulling all those scattered aspects of your life together, for finding a center and ordering yourself to it. You try to coordinate your circle with the universal circle.

Joseph Campbell. "The Power of Myth"

The Power of The Circle In Jiulong Baguazhang

Performing walking the circle (Bu yan quan-zi 步沿圈子) is the hallmark exercise of almost all Baguazhang styles. Every style has their own idiosyncrasies and methods and instead of criticizing things I do not understand I celebrate the ideas of others while remaining true to my own methods that have stood me in such good stead both in health and combat for over 50 years.

What most modern practitioners are not aware of is that bio-feedback experiments conducted at the Life Sciences Research Institute in the 1980’s found was that circle walking when performed correctly for an extended period of time (up to nine minutes or longer) changes brainwave activity and is capable of producing an altered state of consciousness, not unlike a light stage of meditation. This study was made using our Nine Dragon Eight Diagram Palm (Jiulong Baguazhang九龍八卦 掌) circle walking methods.

The finding showed that circling training can increase blood circulation, limber joints, improve flexibility, release endorphins which results in a release of anxiety and tension, and thereby affect the overall bio-chemical balance of our body in a positive manner. As a martial exercise circle walking is highly aerobic and develops the ability to turn, spin and weave in and out of multiple opponents making it one of the most important specialized exercises used in Jiulong Baguazhang to develop combat skills but it also can greatly influence ones health and longevity.

Continuous Rotation Of Multiple Circles

As the student circles in training it is important to walk with a feeling of constant rotation you are rotating around the circle, around your own center (ridgepole) and around each joint. Your joints feel as if they are screwing or twisting in and out as you move especially the legs, torso and arms. The changes of direction should be trained slowly matching each move from foot to torso to hand in a continuous flow of power. Turns should be smooth with no pauses or loss of momentum. Steps should be nimble and light yet still maintain the feeling of being deeply centered in the earth. The student should be like a spinning top, with center of gravity well controlled from the center point (Dantian 丹田).

The Three Orientations

In Jiulong Baguazhang we also have the Three Orientations. This means that we begin walking the circle facing forward as we circle, next we walk so as to orient the upper torso from the pelvis to shoulders inward to face the center of the circle and the third is walking so we face out away from the circle.

The three directions are

Tangent to the circle
Facing into the circle
Facing out away from the circle.

Beginners begin facing tangent to the circle and as flexibility improves are allowed to rotate facing inward in time intermediate students can orient in all three directions while circling. This is analogous to walking with antagonists in front, and to both sides. Being able to neutralize attacks and strike while on a single circle in the point of this exercise and is a precursor to moving into the methods of using two circles, then three and finally nine circles as in the nine post walking (Jiugongdian) methods.

Circle walking in Li family traditions is thought of as both martial and spiritual in nature. On the spiritual side it is symbolic of a basic Daoist belief that life is improved when one returns to a feeling of oneness with nature. On the martial side it employs natural methods of bio-mechanics to create energy and force for defensive actions against one or more opponents. In the training of Li family Jiulong Baguazhang which unlike some other styles is closely connected to the Yijing as a template to understanding the eight palm energies and later coming to understand their combinations to produce 64 energies from knowledge of the hexagrams we find that our circle walking evolves into a free spontaneous exercise or type or non choreographed circular dance (Jiulong zifa wudao 九龍自發舞蹈). Please note that this is not just a waving of arms while running in circles. It is an evolution derived from internalizing the mental and physical methods of structure and motion prescribed by in-depth study of the eight palms and their natures.

It should be noted that this study takes at least eight to nine years before such an ability is fully realized. At this level we learn that letting things follow their natural course (Wuwei 無 為) is best method for dealing with the inner and outer world including combative situations. With this practice we may also begin to understand our own nature at a deeper more insightful level.

As long as one continuously circles with the correct stepping patterns be it one or nine circles the positive health benefits both external and internal will be realized. There is quite a bit more but this will suffice for now. If you are a student of Jiulong Baguazhang then please keep this in mind when you are training, you will benefit greatly from these abilities.

Saturday Practice

 

The Details:

It's a chilly 48 at the house. The sunrise was at 6:54. The low tide will be at 8:44. It's the coldest morning so far this season. I slept in a bit (it was cozy and warm) and I'm moving a bit slowly this morning.

The Practice:

Yesterday afternoon:

I went out at 5:00 to QW The Beach. I walked south up to 27th Avenue. On the way back north I stopped to work on Change #6 (The Unicorn) and #5 (The Phoenix) from The Yin Fu 8 Palms Set. I'm making progress on the physical forms, but the names of the postures are challenging. I'll keep working on it. It'll come with more time and effort. I also did a round of The 21 while I was walking but stopped when I got to the middle part.

Today:

I practiced in The Backyard again this morning. I'm really liking the privacy and the practicing on the pavers on The Patio. 

I started inside with acoustic guitar practice for about 40 minutes focusing on Sugar Babe and Freight Train the bass walk-ups from C to F to G and the Pinch and Roll exercises using Outside/Inside followed by Inside Outside.

Next I went out to The Backyard and did a round of Pakua Knife working on the sequence and directions of postures.

Next I did a round of Taiji Dao. I used my light wooden broadsword that has a wooden scabbard.

Next I did a full round of The 10+ tuned into the health benefits of regular practice. I've been doing these exercises regularly since I was in my 20's and it's easy to feel and see how aging changes things even if you don't take any breaks from practicing them. When I was teaching 23 (average) classes per week I would do these exercises with every class. Some days I would do them 6-8 times! 

Next I did a Round (left side) reciting the Taiji Classics during Part I. I became profoundly connected to nature and the Qi that is all around me. 

Next I did a Standing Post Training (SPT) and Healing Qigong

Next I did a round of Anyo Isa adding more snap and focus to my punches and kicks. I also have been adding Heel Stomping and Jumping to my warm ups. I've working on increasing my air time when practicing the progressive step movement in this Anyo.

Next I did a round of Naihanchi Kata. I continue to work on the changes that I'm making to this Kata. It's coming along....Slowly!

Friday Practice

 

      Yesterday at sunrise. There was more color looking north than the actual sunrise (S S/E), Cool beans!

The Details:

It's 51 at the house. The sunrise was at 6:52. The low tide was at 7:45. It's a chilly morning. I've got a 8-9 video call with Jeff and brunch with Bill and Nevin at the Bakers Table 11:15.

The Practice:

Yesterday afternoon:

I went for a Qigong Walk north on the beach. It was truly beautiful at dusk. The light at that time of day (twilight) is magical. 

With gratitude and appreciation.

                                                               Yesterday at twilight.

Today:

After my video call with Jeff I went out to The Backyard to practice.

I started with a round of Pakua Knife which I had trouble with the sequence and directions. I need to practice this form more often!

Next I did a round of Taiji Dao focused on discipline and regularity.

Next I did a full round of The 10+ tuned into the health benefits of regular practice of these exercises.

Next I did a Round of Taiji (right side) reciting the Taiji Classics at the beginning and continually observing the quality of my postures. I also spent some time observing the handing off of Zhong Ding from foot to foot. It's like magic! How??

Next I did a round of Anyo Walo tuned into the quality and pop of my punches and kicks.

Next I did a round of Sanchin Kata focused on the connection from Tan T'icn (Hara) and punches along with abdominal breathing.

I finished with SPT and Healing Qigong.

Thursday Practice

 

Perhaps the largest Dragonfly that I've ever seen? He/she joined me for the first part of my practice.

The Details:

It's a cool 61 at the house. The sunrise was at 6:52. The last low tide was at 6:42.

The Practice:

Yesterday afternoon:

At around 4:30 I went down to the ocean to QW The Beach. I walked south and did a short stretch before turning around just south of 27th Ave. I did a brief stretch and calisthenics on the 21st Ave. Walkover before returning to the house. We went out to The Boston Fish House for supper.

Today:

I practiced in The Backyard again this morning. I was up and at it early this morning but I've been really enjoying relaxing in the early morning, perhaps a bit too much?

I started with full round of The 10+ - At #9 I did changes 1-6 of the Yin Fu 8 Palms Set. I've been working on #5 and 6 with the changes that I've noticed from Sifu Ray's recent videos on this Set.

Next I did a Round (left side) reciting the Taiji Classics during Part I. I focused on feeling Jin flowing freely up and down the 9 zig zag path. I've been slipping into the other side a bit more often than I would like. It gives me an opportunity to check my emotional response when I notice something is not quite right. Very important thing to keep track of. The goal is to stay equanimous when you are observing what and how your are practicing _____ Anything!

Next I did a short SPT and Healing Qigong

Next I did a round of Anyo Pito focused on the correct sequence and direction of postures.

Next I did a round on Sunsu Kata focused on the flow and direction of the postures.

Wednesday Practice

 

An odd flower popped up from this cactus in the backyard.

The Details:

It's 70 at the house. The sunrise was at 6:52. The low tide was at 5:46. It's forecast to be raining, but it turns out that the rain is further south, here it's just overcast and gray. I have a scheduled guitar lesson on Zoom from 11-12.

The Practice:

Yesterday afternoon:

I QW The Beach north until I reached 16th Ave. Then I met up with GG and Echo and walked south down the beach with them then across A1A where we almost got hit by a crazy driver that didn't stop. Oy Vey!!

Yesterday Morning around low tide there's plenty of beach to walk and practice on. The tide is at a time in it's cycle. Yay!

Today:

I started inside with acoustic guitar practice. I have a lesson later this morning. 

Next I went out to The Backyard and started with a brief warm up using the first few of The 10 tuned into health and consistency.

Next I did a Round of Taijiquan (right side) tuned into 'no thought' (no conscious thought) and observing from a third party perspective. I found myself tuned into Counter Balancing throughout the Round, especially when doing Brush Knee Twist and Jade Maiden.

Next I did a short SPT and Healing Qigong

Next I did a round of Anyo Apat tuned into the correct sequence and direction as well as applications.

Next I did a round of Kusanku Kata tuned into agility and mobility especially on the Zen Dashi's and Single Leg Squats.

Tuesday Practice

 

The Details:

It's 68 at the house. The sunrise was at 6:51. The last low tide was at 4:43. I'm going to try to get down to the beach for sunrise (finally). We are planning to drive up to Jacksonville to visit my Mom this morning.

The Practice:

Yesterday afternoon:

Around 5 I went down to the beach to QW. I was there about an hour after low tide and I was pleased that there was plenty of beach to walk on.

Qigong Walking: Loose - Supple - Relaxed

Today:

I finally made it out to the beach for sunrise this morning. It felt good and very familiar. I hope to get back into the habit of getting out there to photograph the sunrise and practice. I didn't see any of the 'regulars'.

I started with a QW up to 27th Ave. It was close to low tide so there was plenty of beach to walk and practice on...Yay!!

When I got back to 21st Ave I started with a full round of The 10+ focused on consistency (self-discipline), health and mobility.

Next I did a Round (left side) of Taijiquan reciting the Taiji Classics during Part I and tuned into a profound connection to nature's Qi. I cultivated sunrise and ocean Qi throughout the round but especially during Wave Hands and Jade Maiden. 

Next I did a round of Anyo Lima focused on agility, mobility and applications.

Next I did a round Chinto Kata focused on agility and mobility.

I ended with Healing Qigong before returning to the house to write and get ready to head up to Jacksonville. I've got to drop the truck off at Stewarts to get the passenger side rear tire repaired. Apparently there is a slow leak somewhere?

Monday Practice

 

The Details:

It's 68 at the house. The sunrise was at 6:50. The next high tide is at 10:26, I'm up early enough but I still think I'll be practicing in The Backyard again today. I do plan on sunrise once the tide cycle is s

The Practice:

I gave myself a day off from QW The Beach yesterday. We went out to Voo La Voo Cafe for dinner. The food was fabulous. 

I started inside with acoustic guitar and drum set practice. I continue to work on the 8 pages of exercises from the book 'Syncopation' ala Alan Dawson. This is material that I was introduced to when I was studying drum set with Keith L. at Downtown Sounds. I remember driving down to Noho on Thursday afternoons and Buddy K. would lead the Youth Karate Class 4:30-5:30 and I would be back in Greenfield in time to lead the 5:30 Taijiquan Class and the 6:30-8:30 Adult Karate Class.

Next I went out to The Backyard and did a brief warm up using the first few of The 10 tuned into health and mobility.

Next I worked on Change #6 (The Phoenix) and #5 from Yin Fu's 8 Palm Set.

Next I did a Round (right side) reciting the Taiji Classics during Part I

Next I did a round of Anyo Anim tuned into agility and applications

Next I did a round of Wansu Kata tuned into mobility and health and consistency (requires self-discipline)

I ended with SPT and Healing Qigong.

We're going to Best Buy to shop for a new flat screen TV this afternoon. 

Yin Fu 6th Palm - The Phoenix

 

Yin Fu Baguazhang 8 Palms Set - The 6th Palm - The Phoenix -

Sunday Practice

 The Details:

It's 70 at the house. The sunrise was at 6:49. High tide is a t 9:34. I'll be practicing in The Backyard again this morning.

The Practice:

Yesterday afternoon:

I went out to QW The Beach at around 4:30. I walked south towards 27th Ave thinking I was close enough to low tide (3:30 ish) but alas when I got down to the 27th Ave Ramp I was surprised to see that the water was already going part way up the ramp and I was unable to continue south. Oy! So I turned around before my sneakers got wet and walked north past Las Brisas. I focused on TLB 4 steps inhale and 6 steps exhale and maintaining a Loose, Supple, Relaxed body freely allowing the counter rotation of my hips and shoulders feeling the momentum swing my arms forward and backward with a slight expression of energy connected to the Bubbling Well Points and the contraction of my calf muscles.

Today:

I went out to The Backyard after my 10-11 meeting with Jeff. 

I started with a round of Taiji Jian (straight sword) using the folding Jian that I was gifted by Sifu Ray. I focused on the tip of the sword throughout and the discipline that I used to get started with my goal of being consistent in my practice of this form. I thought about the names of the postures without reciting them.

Next I did a brief warm up using the first few of The 10 focused on health and maintaining mobility.

Next I did a Round (left side) reciting the Taiji Classics and tuned into 'Swimming In Air' and feeling Peng Jin flowing freely up and down the 9 zig zag path. It's Sunday so I practiced while listening to classical music. This morning I practiced to Bach.

Next I did a SPT and Healing Qigong

Next I did a round of Anyo Tatlo focused on correct sequence and direction of postures.

Next I did a round of Seiunchin Kata tuned into mobility, health and agility.

I baked this morning. That's a lot of work to prepare and clean up.

Saturday Practice

 

The Details:

It's 62 at the house. The sunrise was at 6:48. High tide is at 8:42 this morning. It looks like I'll be practicing in The Backyard again this morning. 

The Practice:

Yesterday afternoon:

I started inside with Bass Guitar practice followed by Drum Set and Acoustic Guitar practice. I'm slowly making progress across the board. Consistency works!!

Around 4:30 I went out to QW (Qigong Walking) The Beach:

Roll The Feet

Soften The Knees

Release The Lower Back By Aligning The Head And Shoulders.

TLB (Taoist Longevity Breathing) 4 Steps Inhale, 6 Steps Exhale

Breathing: Slow, Fine, Even and Soft

QW: Loose - Supple - Relaxed

- Align to Relax -

Relax Releases In All Directions 

And Connects Internally And Externally 

I thought that there would be more beach to walk on since the low tide was at 2:30. I was barely able to get past the seawalls at 16th and 18th Avenues. It's a full moon tonight so it's a 'King Tide' and the highest tides are in November and there's a strong N/E wind coming ashore all that makes for hardly any beach to walk on except for at low tide. Oy Vey!! Hopefully it will get better? Fingers Crossed

I made it all the way to The Pelican Condos before turning around and QW back to 21st Ave where I did a full round of Wuji Hundun Qigong and some Walkover Exercises before returning to the house.

Today:

I went out to The Backyard to practice around 8:30 ish and started with a full round of The 10+ focused on the discipline needed to be consistent. If I choose to not do them, I feel that I'm the only one that loses. So the basic idea is to not think, just DO! The secret (shhh) if you find yourself ready to clean closets, just start!

Next I did a Round of Taijiquan (left side) reciting the Taiji Classics during Part I - I tuned into calibrating my frequency to connect to 'the information'. I had glimpses of getting the knowledge/information from the ether. 

Next I did SPT and Healing Qigong

Next I did a round of Anyo Dalawa tuned into more snap/focus on my punches and agility in the stance work.

Next I did a round of Seisan Kata focused on quality basic punches and kicks adding more snap and proper extension. I was focused on overall health.

Friday Practice

 

The Details:

It's 70 at the house. The sunrise was at 6:47. High tide at 7:50. It's the wrong timing for the high tides and it's making QW The Beach and photographing the sunrise a bit challenging. I may be practicing in the back yard again this morning. My Friday morning video meeting with Jeff has be rescheduled to Sunday. I'm meeting Bill R. at The Wake Up Cafe at 11 this morning.

The Practice:

Yesterday afternoon:

I QW to the beach. I walked north until the 16th Ave walkover. The tide was too high to continue on the beach so I walked north on Hill Street up to The Pelican and went out on the south side boardwalk to practice and take a look at the ocean and beach. It was 2 1/2 hours before high tide and the wave were already breaking all the way up to the seawall at The Pelican Condos. Oy!

I did a full round of The 21 and Healing Qigong before QW back down Hill Street to the house. 

Today:

I started inside with reading out of 'Evidence' a book of poems by Mary Oliver that Janee gifted me back in October. I've been reading a poem a day first thing in the morning since I received the book. With gratitude and appreciation.

Next I went out to the backyard and started with a round of Taiji Double Dao Form using the double broadsword set that I have here. I focused on mobility and agility and general overall health. I went slow and low in the Cross Leg Stances for hip mobility.

Next I did a full round of The 10+ focused on consistency and the application of self discipline. I was cautious not to overthink them. Just Do It! I had a fair amount of internal dialog and negotiations with myself. Oy! Just DO IT!

Next I did a Round of Taijiquan (right side) focused on:

- Opening the body

- Releasing turbid Qi

- Cultivating Qi

- Balancing Qi

*NOTE: I use discipline to stay consistent - I DO NOT rely on motivation - When I realize that I'm starting to negotiate with myself, I discipline myself to start the session. I often find that I use discipline to start a session but once I get started, I find that I get motivated and end up doing more than I originally thought I would. Disciplining oneself to start pays off....Big Time! 

Don't think just do!!

Next I did SPT (Standing Post Training) and Healing Qigong

Next I did a round of Anyo Isa adding more pop and agility throughout the Anyo

Next I did a round of Naihanchi Kata solidifying the changes that I'm making to that Kata. It's coming along nicely. 

Thursday Practice

 

The Details:

It's 75 at the house. The sunrise was at 6:46. High tide at 6:58, There will be little to no beach to walk and practice on. I'm contemplating when and where to practice.....Hmmm! I decided to practice in The Backyard on The Patio.

The Practice:

Yesterday afternoon:

I went out around 4:30 to QW The Beach, but alas high tide was at 6:30 and with the wind coming in from the east there wasn't enough beach to walk on (with sneakers). So I walked up Hill Street to The Pelican. Once I got to The Pelican I stopped on the south side and practiced on the boardwalk. 

I did the last 3 changes to Yin Fu 8 Palms. I focused on consistency and mobility and agility. It was very windy so cut it a bit short and QW back to the house on Hill Street.

Today:

I started inside with acoustic guitar practice. I worked on the two songs and the myriad of finger picking exercises that I currently have in my repertoire. I used a metronome set at 80 BPM.

This morning I'm contemplating the use of the word 'Consistency' which is one of my main training methods. I'm realizing that what it really takes to be Consistent is Discipline. I rarely 'feel like' doing 'it', When I find myself overthinking ______ (Whatever) I just start doing 'it'. I've learned a lot from my extensive oral care routine in the evening before bed. It works, and it only actually take about 20-30 minutes once I get going. Discipline is the highest order of self-love IMHO. 

Don't Think

Just Do

Once I got started I did a full round of The 10+ using discipline to remain consistent. These Qigong Exercises are extremely healthy if done daily. If or should I say when I don't have the discipline to do them, I feel that I am the only one that loses out. I feel that way very strongly and it helps to motivate you to start. Overthinking kills everything! I learned that from my musical practices. 

Again

Don't Think 

Just Do

Next I did a Round of Taiji (left side) focused on not overthinking but third party observation and monitoring the Taiji Principles. I tuned into Jin moving freely up and down the 9 zig zag path. Feeling the earth pushing up against  the bottoms of my feet, especially the Bubbling Well Points.

Next I did a round of Anyo Walo tuned into the correct sequence right at the end of the Anyo.

Next I did a round of Sanchin Kata focused on abdominal breathing (TLB [Taoist Longevity Breathing])

I finished with Healing Qigong

Old School Karate-do. Part 1

Wednesday Practice

 

The Details:

It's 76 at the house. The sunrise was at 6:46. The last high tide was at 6:05. I'm up and at it early again this morning. That's step one!!

The Practice:

Yesterday late afternoon:

I wanted to try Qigong Walking The Beach without shoes on. So I located a pair of flip flops to walk down to the beach with. Once I arrived at the beach I left the flip flops under the Walkover and proceeded north on the beach until I got to 16th Ave. 

Next I did Changes 1-5 (on both sides) of Yin Fu 8 Palms. I concentrated on change #5 after watching Sifu Ray explain the change in detail. 

Next I QW The Beach back to the house.

The tide was up and there was very little beach to walk on. I was happy I was barefoot.

Today:

I started inside with acoustic guitar practice. I worked on Sugar Babe and Freight Train first then moved on to exercises 1-4 from the Travis Picking Book. I have a Zoom lesson with Shubal at 11 this morning. 

I took my long rattan cane with me down to the beach around 8. I started walking south towards 27th Ave but turned around (there was no beach to walk on) and walked north to the 21st Ave Walkover to practice.

I started with a brief warm up using the first few from The 10

Next I used my long rattan cane to do a round of all four Modern Arnis Cane Anyo's. I did #1 on both sides the others just the right. I focused on wrist and shoulder health and consistency.

Next I did a Round of Taiji (right side) reciting the Taiji Classics and feeling my whole body be light and agile. I'm contemplating the idea of maintaining mobility for regular life as I practiced. I feel so fortunate to have Taijiquan in my life. With gratitude and appreciation.

Next I did a round of Anyo Pito focused on correct sequence and direction of postures.

Next I did a round of Sunsu Kata focused on the diagram of this Kata. I continue to get befuddled and slightly confused about the sequence and direction of postures. It's coming along....but slowly!

I finished with SPT and Healing Qigong before walking back to the house.

I'm planning on going up to Gaff's this morning in time to be back for my 11 am guitar lesson on line. We've got Spectrum Tech. coming to fix (hopefully) our cable box. Oy! Dealing with Spectrum is a nightmare!!