It is not uncommon for people to approach us about learning Tai Chi because they want to ‘feel more grounded’. Often they only seem to have a vague notion of what this means. When goals aren’t quantified progress is going to be stifled, so it is worth formulating a working definition in order to make progress.
Firstly it should be said that we separate grounding from rooting, though of course there is some crossover. Some schools spend a lot of time on rooting exercises, and we do indulge this to some extent doing some basic posture testing to ground out physical force and develop peng energy. However it is essential that you graduate to making your root more mobile if you have martial ambitions.
Grounding as we practice it has two primary facets, firstly there is the psycho-physical side. This is the idea that if you are too in your thoughts which is leading to negative effects you can focus on the somatic experience of the physical, with a greater emphasis as you go lower in your body and make contact with the ground. Secondly there is the energetic component which involves exchanging energy with the ground, removing any excess or sick energy from the body and exchanging it for clean earth energy. Definitely an operation to conclude your energy work practice with. For those that are concerned about polluting the earth with your sick energy do not be unnecessarily worried. Just like it can create nourishing compost out of waste the earth can readily recycle your energy.
If you are looking for a fast acting hack to ground emotionally, energetically or physically give this a try…Make a closed fist with both hands but rather than have your thumb on the outside place it under the fingers. This creates an often instant connection to the soles of the feet through which you can discharge or exchange energy.
Until next month we hope you are keeping well and enjoying your practice.