…Wu Wei means no going against the nature of things; no Monkeying around. … When we learn to work with our own inner nature and the natural laws operating around us, we reach the level of Wu Wei. Then we work with the natural order of things and operate on the principle of minimal effort. Since the natural world follows that principle, it does not make mistakes. Mistake are made-or imagined- by man, the creature with the overloaded Brain who separates himself from the supporting network of natural laws by interfering and trying too hard. Not like Pooh, the most effortless Bear we’ve ever seen.”
---The Tao of Pooh, by Benjamin Hoff
Above is one of the best explanations of the powerful principle of Wu Wei I have found. The less “monkeying around” we do-- the less we push ourselves beyond our natural limits-- the more energy, flexibility, and strength we will achieve over time, withmuchless likelihood of injury. PracticingWu Wei requires patience, alertness to the reality of the present moment, and lots of compassionate self-acceptance. Isn’t it wonderful that all of this is built into the practice of Qigong? It’s a valuable principle to apply to life in general, too. As Hoff writes in this simple, wise, and beautiful book (which I highly recommend!):
“The efficiency of Wu Wei is like that of water flowing over and around the rocks in its path- not the mechanical, straight-line approach that usually ends up short-circuiting natural laws, but one that evolves from an inner sensitivity to the natural rhythm of things.”
Many thanks and a Taoist salute to Jane Meryll and Larry Leo for inspiring this newsletter!
Class Schedule and Upcoming Workshops and Special Events:
Qigong for Autumn—In-person at Hotchkiss Library, Sharon CT: Saturday, October 4, 10:30 am-12 pm. Please contact the library to register for this free event (860) 364-5041. The weather forecast for Saturday is beautiful, so we’ll be able to practice outside. Please bring flat, easy to move in shoes and layers to stay warm!
Next Millbrook Library In-person/Zoom Qigong: Fridays, October 10th and 24th, 10 - 11 am. This beginner-friendly class is open to all. Please register at millbrooklibrary.org. You will receive email reminders and the Zoom link and passcode, for those who require it, once you register.
Qigong for Autumn—In-person at Innisfree Garden, Millbrook, NY. Saturday, October 18, 1-2:30 PM. Join me for an all-levels practice in one of the most serene, inspiring gardens in Dutchess County! Register at innisfreegarden.org. (Rain date the following Saturday).
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Zoom Qigong Classes Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday at 9:30 am EST
