Beyond Form: The Synchronicity Secrets of Dayan Qigong
In the realm of Qigong, there's an inherent universality that transcends the specifics of form and structure. Every aspect of the practice, every movement and stance, resonates with a deeper, more holistic rhythm.
This is evident when passersby, upon witnessing a group in practice, feel an innate urge to align their posture, stretch, or even simply become more mindful of their steps. It's this magnetic pull of synchronicity that leads a child, upon seeing the group, to joyfully exclaim "BIRDS!" and mimic the flapping of wings. They, too, are in sync, drawn into animal immediacy even if just for a fleeting moment.
As practitioners, we find harmony by conciously observing, mimicking, and resonating with “The Ten Thousand Things.” The essence of Qigong lies in the organic connection and understanding it fosters, both within and with the world around us.
Finding Your Place in the Circle
For newcomers to Dayan Qigong, the first question often is, "Where should I stand?" During warm-ups, the circle formation invites unity, with each member making or taking space as needed. Our grace in accommodating drop ins and drop outs mirrors the ease with which geese rotate the tip of their flying v.
Flying with the Flock
Transitioning to the structured discipline of the form can be a moment of uncertainty for many practitioners. This shift often brings with it a perception that there's a 'right' or 'wrong' place to be, a 'correct' or 'incorrect' space to occupy.
When practicing as a group, Leaders A and B serve as our visual anchors. Leader A goes front left corner for visibility. Leader B starts in the back right corner so we can stay oriented when we turn around. While traditionally these spots are reserved for the more experienced, rotating roles can offer fresh perspectives.
Beyond these anchors, there's a more localized sync to consider. Tuning into those nearest can sometimes be more intuitive than seeking guidance from a distant corner. This close-knit synchronization can ripple through the group, creating a mesmerizing wave effect that's a sight to behold from afar.
The Inner Sync
Delving deeper, synchronization is not just about aligning with others but also about harmonizing with oneself. The intricate interactions of thoughts, Shen, Qi, and our various bodily systems offers endless avenues for exploration. Without a prescribed breathing pattern in Dayan Qigong, practitioners have the liberty to experiment, finding unique rhythms that resonate with their mind and body. This internal sync is where the true depth of the practice lies, with countless insights waiting to be discovered.
Stepping Out Of Sync
In the grand scheme of the universe, chaos and entropy reign, making moments of misalignment in our Dayan Qigong practice a natural reflection of this cosmic order. When you find yourself out of sync, it's vital to approach the dissonance with patience and understanding. Rather than succumbing to panic, which can disrupt the meditative flow, embrace these moments free from guilt or embarrassment. Transitioning from this space of misalignment to one of harmony can be a gentle, explorative journey rather than a rushed correction. Consider it a test of adaptability, where the answers aren't right or wrong but are gateways to innovative insights and deeper understanding. You may discover you’re exactly where you need to be!
There are moments, too, when stepping out of sync is a conscious choice, a necessity. Should you feel the need to pause or exit the practice, it's advisable to perform the 64th movement of the form, a closing gesture. This act ensures that any energy set in motion is balanced and grounded. It provides a seamless transition, allowing you to either observe from the sidelines or attend to other matters, ensuring that your departure is as harmonious as your practice. The close is a sound response to interruption even when you’re practicing alone.
Synchronizing with Time
Incorporating Dayan Qigong into daily life is a commitment to synchronizing the form with one's life rhythm. While it might be challenging to maintain this connection every moment, regular check-ins with the form create a woven tapestry of practice, making it more accessible with each iteration.
Your Sync Story
Synchronization in Dayan Qigong is a journey of both external alignment and internal harmony. How do you experience these touch points? Share your insights, be it in the comments or during our practice sessions. Let's continue to learn, resonate, and grow together!
Practice with us at 10am every Saturday in Sue Bierman Park (San Francisco). If weather is wet/raining we practice at the covered entrance of Four Embarcadero. The format is a 1 hour session with warm ups, picking out 1 of the 64 movements for details/discussion, and a full practice of Wild Goose Qigong First Set.