Tai Chi Straight Sword, Section 2

My weapon this year has not changed. I am still working with the Chinese Straight Sword and learning the Tai Chi Sword form by utilizing a number of different videos I have been able to find. I can certainly see why and how ancient forms and systems change and evolve over time. We all have our own interpretation, body mechanics and personal styles that factor in when learning a form that has been passed down. 

I remember last year as I was starting to learn the form I was able to find a video that provided different views and angles to learn from, which was wonderful because I suck at trying to mirror someone. At first I wanted to utilize just that one video. It wasn't until I ran into trouble with a particular move that I found myself looking for a different source. This led to finding a video with a complete front view and a complete back view. The only glitch was some of the moves were being done differently. I struggled with this at first until I understood the natural evolution of the martial arts and how I or any of us play a part in that evolution as traditional martial artists. My goal is still to stay true to the technique and spirit of the original form and keep it as intact as possible.

The Yang 32 Tai Chi Straight Sword form is a simplified Version of the original Yang style sword form. It is broken down into 4 sections of 8 postures and transitions. Last year I had made it through the first section and had started on the 2nd section when I ran into a tricky posture and transition. After a few attempts my brain just wasn't getting it and so I concentrated on what I already had and worked on polishing things up.

With a fresh start this year I committed myself to learning the 2nd section. Being able to slow the video down to 25% has been great for allowing my brain to catch up and figure things out. It feels like I've done just that particular posture and transition close to 1000x already. Yes, that is a slight exaggeration, LOL. Now that I can replicate the move to the best of my current ability, I will be able to refine and continue forward. I really feel like I'm making some headway.

Acts of Kindness

Wow! I received some great news this week! After about 9 months of helping to manage and provide ongoing support to my oldest brother, he has informed me that his AISH application has been officially approved and will begin receiving money shortly along with some retroactive pay. Numerous hours have been spent getting him housed, help with doctors, finding resources, completing applications and keeping him on track.

There have been moments when I've felt a bit resentful of the time and energy I've had to spend, especially given the family dynamics. After everything that had previously transpired I really didn't expect to have any contact or relationship with either of my brothers.

When he called me with the update I felt immediate relief and joy and very aware of how life changing and powerful Acts of Kindness can be. Acts of Kindness may seem simple much of the time and yet they can have huge ripple effects. 

Through all of this our relationship has improved, my dads mind is more at ease, and the effects of this resolution will help to contribute positively to my brothers overall mental health. With reduced stress levels and improved mental health my brother will be able to enjoy healthier relationships and be a more productive member of his community, instead of being a problem. There is more potential for him to enjoy a healthier and happier life. A lot is still up to him, but he has at least gotten a boost and the support he needs to take some positive steps forward.

Key to Success

A slow start or a sprint up hill right out of the gate is not necessarily an indicator of your trajectory and how successful you will be overall. I’ve had a couple slow and bumpy starts over the many years as a member of the IHC team that turned out to be some of my best years. Struggles and overcoming obstacles provide some of the best personal growth. 

When I look back at those particular years, I find prioritizing myself was a key component to success. For me this means a combination of healthy eating, practicing gratitude, yoga, mindfulness and meditation. Even if something falls off the others pickup the slack and help to carry me through. I have found that putting in the time and effort to take care of myself helps to reduce my anxiety, I’m more open and relaxed, make better decisions and able to embrace the journey and whatever comes my way.

Prioritizing myself isn’t the only variable though. I’ve learned which additional tools complement, anchor and even help to motivate me at times. Regular blogging has kept me in tune with where I am and what I’m doing. Reading and understanding mastery helps me to focus on the why and how, and push-ups/sit-ups provide an anchor and help to build discipline. For me these all provide building blocks and are foundational to my journey, which also helps me to find and prioritize the time needed for other aspects of my training. I am constantly balancing, re-evaluating and adjusting as needed.

There is a difference between working hard versus applying effort calmly and with intent.

Embrace The Here & Now

The biggest challenge I’ve been trying to work through this week has been more of an internal struggle. I find myself thinking back to the days when life and priorities were easier to manage, and opportunities to train were abundant. Looking back I'm aware of the missed moments and wasted time, but also very aware this is all part of my personal path and journey. I've learned these feelings need to be explored a bit without dwelling on things overly much. I find it helps to recognize the negative feelings happening internally and work through the issue so that I can move on and move forward. 

Forward momentum will naturally look different since the addition of a growing and active pup. There have already been more challenges to work through than expected. In addition to the challenges she also helps to keep me focused and attentive and brings me joy. Km for the year are certainly not going to be a problem with all the daily walks. In the short time she has been a part of my life I’ve already spent more time this winter outside, breathing in the fresh air, enjoying the gently falling snow at night and gazing up at the stars than any previous winter. I’m usually much more of a cocoon inside until spring comes type of person. 

Looking back at missed or under-utilized moments helps me to embrace the here and now. With the change in priorities I have gained much and am learning to make better use of my time and find new solutions. If I step out of my box and maybe do a few things differently I know I can find some new and workable opportunities and maybe even get a bit creative. As Sifu Brinker says - work and train smarter!

Part of my overall goal for this year is to build on my enthusiasm, intentionality and inspiration. And as I write this I’m realizing the struggles, the challenges and opportunities that come my way will all help me to get to where I want to be and am meant to be. 

Transition

Year of the Snake means big changes for me. I'm already somewhat missing not being on the IHC team and at the same time excited for what the year holds for me. After another inspiring and successful Chinese New Year Banquet, I can now focus 100% on the new year.

The word or phrase I have chosen for a theme this year is 'Take Action!' And when reflecting on each day, each week and each month I will ask myself if action was an accurate description. I know there is more I can be accomplishing and I want to find ways to do and be more, both internally and externally. I'm feeling really good about this years theme word as I feel it is going to help me find a better balance of the mental and the physical.