Taiji (Tai Chi) encompasses all phenomena.
The five senses of a person—sight, hearing, smell, etc.—are often interconnected. Listening to the sound of water while inhaling pleasant aromas can achieve the effect of nourishing the ears. This health practice aims to harmonize the mind through natural sounds and scents, allowing the spirit to relax and be nourished.
2. Green Grass for Eye Care: Abundant greenery nourishes the eyes and spirit.
Green grass and red flowers have often been mentioned together by ancient scholars, both capable of nourishing the eyes. Wang Anshi praised the beauty of green grass, believing it nourishes the spirit and eyesight. In modern life, we should also engage more with nature, appreciating green plants to relax and nourish our eyes.
3. Reading for Heart Nourishment: Reading and contemplation nourish the spirit.
Reading not only increases knowledge but also nourishes the heart. There is no need to pursue new books; as long as one thinks diligently, new flavors can be discovered in familiar texts, which can also nourish the heart. The natural beauty found in books is like scenery on paper, allowing us to find moments of tranquility amidst our busy lives.
4. Music and Calligraphy for Aspiration: Melodious music and calligraphy cultivate character.
Ouyang Xiu from the Song Dynasty believed that playing the guqin (a traditional Chinese string instrument) could cure ailments. The melodious sound of the guqin helps to harmonize the mind, keeping diseases at bay. Calligraphy, through the coordinated movements of the hands, wrists, and arms, engages the whole body, functioning similarly to qigong and Tai Chi. Practicing calligraphy can cultivate character and enhance personal temperament.
5. Walking Aids for Foot Care: A cane provides support for steady walking.
A suitable cane is a helpful assistant for the elderly while walking. It not only provides support, making walking more comfortable and reliable, but can also serve as a pillar when standing. Using a cane for foot care allows us to walk more steadily and delay aging.
6. Sitting Meditation for Muscle Nourishment: Quiet sitting regulates breath and promotes smooth meridians.
Sitting meditation for muscle nourishment is a simple yet effective health practice. During meditation, we can harmonize our breath, ensuring that the body’s meridians are unobstructed, which also helps reduce the risk of diseases such as arthritis and arteriosclerosis.
Here are some tips for sitting meditation to help you achieve better results in practice:
Choose a quiet and comfortable environment: When meditating, try to select a quiet, comfortable, and undisturbed place to avoid distractions from external noise and thoughts.
Adjust your sitting posture: Sit upright on a flat surface or mat, with your legs hanging down in a relaxed position, eyes looking down, one hand raised, and the other extended horizontally, in a supportive posture. This position helps relax the body and promotes smoother circulation of qi and blood.
Adjust your breathing: During meditation, adjust your breathing to be even and deep. You can try deep breathing to relax your body and mind, reducing stress.
Keep your body relaxed: During meditation, pay attention to relaxing your body, avoiding muscle tension and stiffness. You can gently massage various parts of your body to help relieve fatigue and tension.
Incorporate meditation: While meditating, you can try incorporating meditation techniques to guide your thoughts, allowing for deeper relaxation and nourishment of the body and mind.
By practicing these tips for sitting meditation, we can better harness the effects of this health practice, promoting physical health and mental peace.
Feel free to share; the merit is boundless.
Education should align with the learner's capabilities and the appropriate timing!
——【Elegant Phrase】
Let wisdom and compassion never cease!