As a Taijiquan instructor, I always mention the importance of relaxation and sinking into our movements while doing Taiji. Ironically, although I’d like to think that I can manage "relaxation" in my Taiji, I think my ability to "just relax" (i.e. "chill out") outside of the martial arts realm is lacking.
Here I am….in Elk Grove California, visiting my sister. I initially came to California to attend a Wushu tournament in Berkeley. While in my hotel room, I took calls from prospective clients, set up appointments, updated business contacts, and a host of other "business" stuff. Until this tournament was over, I was still on "work" mindset, I thought. All went well…the tournament was exciting, I got alot of new appointments and answered alot of business calls.
After the tournament, my brother in law arrived at the Arena to take me to Elk Grove. And up until now, I’ve been answering business calls and setting appointments for the upcoming Spring Quarter. My nieces set up the Wii and asked me if I wanted to play….to which I said "In a minute…"
"Wait a sec"…I thought. Technically, now that the tournament was over, I should be on a mini "vacation". But here I am on the computer, checking my finances, answering business email, taking calls.
With all that said….I’m going to practice "relaxing" now, and try my hand at playing with the Wii (this ought to be interesting!). I’m turning this computer off, turning my smartphone off, and relaxing with my sister, brother in law, and nieces.
See ya!!
And oh yeah……YOU should relax too……
Don't Fight The Tao 