Teaching qi gong and living fully in mind, body, and spirit

Over twenty years ago, while I was living in Japan, I studied Buddhist and Taoist martial arts-qi gong, tai chi, kung fu, and karate-with Chinese and Japanese masters, as part of my PhD research. I am still using the basis of these teachings in my daily life: especially meditation, mindfulness, and a deep appreciation for the natural world and all sentient beings, through the practice of qi gong.

As a mindfulness-based transitions coach, creative writing coach, and spiritual director, I strive to use what I have learned in my lifetime to help people. Being of service to others, helping them explore their creativity and passion, and find their unique place in the world, is what I feel called to do.

For example, for the past few years, I have been teaching a qi gong class to seniors in a local park. It gives me such gratitude to offer this Chinese martial art, which I learned so long ago from my Chinese and Japanese senseis in Japan, to my community.

It's a thrill to watch my small group of students-aged sixty-five to eighty-seven-gain balance, muscle strength, and flexibility as they work with increased focus and breath while practicing each week's series of gentle, physical exercises.

They are learning the importance of staying in the present moment as we move our qi, or vital life energy, outdoors together, under a circle of trees. Each time I see the early-morning smiles on their faces, the influence of this Taoist practice from thousands of years ago makes my day.

Incidentally, I teach the class in Dutch, which is my fifth language, so sometimes I make a mistake or two... Like when I confused clouds with carrots during my very first lesson, which made everyone laugh. Luckily, laughing each day makes us live longer, and happier, doesn't it? I'm pretty sure there's scientific research out there to prove it.I

In any case, Thich Nhat Hanh, revered Buddhist monk and Catholic priest, was right. It's important to give back to our communities and stay involved with those around us. As we continually evolve, we all develop specific knowledge and talents, and I personally feel we are each here for a purpose.

In addition, we can make conscious efforts to be present and attentive to our surroundings, and treat each living being with kindness and generosity; even those sentient beings that inhabit mountains, oceans, lakes, and forests, like the pine trees towering over our heads, or worms wiggling at our feet.

To live healthily and stay aligned with our values and intentions, we might consider living each moment as if it were our last. Because in all likelihood, we will never be certain when that final moment will arrive. So, as I tell my qi gong students, whenever possible, enjoy each moment to the fullest. And try to laugh at least 27 times per day!

What do you do to feel healthy in your mind, body, and spirit? What makes you smile and laugh? Whatever it is, try to do more of it each day!