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We are part of the SEMKA
group
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Where do we derive our Life Force From?
The basic source of human energy, according to Taoists, comes from our
parents. The Yin energy of the mother in the egg and the yang energy of
the father in the sperm provide the initial sparks that ignite the fire
of life. This energy from the parents is called prenatal energy or original
Chi.
A second source of Chi is radiation from the stars in the form of light,
electromagnetic waves, and subsonic vibrations. The most prominent stars
in this process are the Sun and the North Star in the constellation known
as the Big Dipper. Humans in particular depend on the Chi, which is radiated
through space by the stars and planets, for sustenance. The air we breathe
is charged with cosmic energy in the form of extremely fine particles
of cosmic "dust". This dust is the residue of exploded stars,
planets and asteroids. It rains constantly onto the earth forming as essential
component of the soil. Plants are the only living organisms that can directly
transform light into nourishment. Humans absorb light energy indirectly
by eating either vegetables or the flesh of other animals that feed on
plants.
The interaction of light, cosmic dust in the soil and air, together with
water, forms the basis of photosynthesis in plants. Chi is life, and abundant
energy is abundant life. If our energy supply is low due to illness or
excessive emotions, we experience low vitality and lack of drive. Living
ceases to be an enjoyable experience; we feel disconnected, leading to
the feeling of being separated from the environment, from society, and
from ourselves. Taoists therefore place extreme importance on cultivating
and maintaining a high level of energy to strengthen ones connection with
the universe and oneself.
Tensho-Chi with its emphasis on breathing and movement from the chest
and from the centre of the body, helps to build and distribute the vital
energy, by strengthening the function of the stomach, spleen and the lungs.
These are the organs most responsible for receiving and processing the
external Chi of food and air.
Tensho-Chi teaches you to stand and move naturally and breathe from the
belly rather than the chest, allowing the Chi to circulate freely. In
Tensho Chi you deliberately use your own awareness or intention to direct
your energy and guide your body and mind to a state of spontaneity and
a natural way of movement. In Tensho-Chi we focus on the most minute details
of how we move, breathe and use our mental intention.
With regular practice, this awareness begins to spill over into daily
life. Through this increased awareness in practice, the dangers of ordinary
life, injuries, mistakes and accidents are greatly reduced.
TENSHO - LIT:- 'TURNING HANDS OR WRIST'
CHI - intrinsic life power, vital energy
Below is a guide to what Tensho-Chi is and how we practice it. Tensho
Chi is an ancient form of health - exercise developed by the northern
Shaolin system of Chinese martial arts.
Due to the philosophical, social, economic and cultural exchanges made
between China and Japan throughout the centuries, particular impressions
have been left upon each nation's psyche.
For Japan, because of their natural militaristic inclination, the legacy
of the Chinese martial arts system was easily absorbed, and later redeveloped.
It is no wonder that today in Japan we find considerable Chinese influence
in the 'forms' of these Budo arts. Within the Nahate system (Goju-Ryu
style) of Okinawa Karate is found a 'Kata' by the name of 'Tensho', which
uses a strong stance and tension breathing techniques.
The similarity of this form to the ones presented here is only slight,
but they may very well have had a common origin. Within the system of
Tensho-Chi there are twenty four variations to the form, each one with
its own benefits. These affect the body's natural energy (Chi).
Around these versions of Tensho we have the fortunate use of a wide range
of self-awareness or body informing techniques.
The Tensho Chi system could easily be called 'Tensho-Chi-Kung'. It is
in fact an internal energy discipline using breathing, meditation and
posture exercises (both active and static) to encourage the 'free-flow'
of natural energy (Chi) around the body, thus opening or unblocking the
etheric pathways or meridians of the body.
The purpose of these exercises is to create, eventually, a physical-emotional-mental
alignment, the result of which is 'health' or 'wholeness' in the fullest
sense. The whole system of Tensho Chi consists of 24 Katas each one with
its own particular style or feeling.
There is also the energy side of the system which is being aware of the
Chi in each form and also being aware of the Chi around other students.
This then leads on to the universal Chi through exercises. Another part
of the system is the meditation side of Tensho-Chi which is being aware
of ones own mind which is a very powerful tool when cultivating the workings
of Chi.
This leads on to the Martial Arts side of each form. The application of
each Kata is taught and practiced slowly. With the help of a partner each
student is able to practice each movement, experiencing the flow of Chi.
Within these exercises pushing hands is also practiced.
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Take a look at what some of our students are saying about their experiences
with Tensho Chi
"My neck and shoulders were stiff, to the point
of giving me headaches....I spent an hour learning basic moves...I had
the best night's sleep that I have had in ages. I woke up in the morning
unbelievably relaxed."
"Now I can relax whenever I want to.."
"Tensho Chi helps to focus the mind by clearing
the clutter of everyday life..."
"...I would recommend Tensho Chi to anyone..."
"I have discovered an inner strength, that I
did not know that I had..."
You can see more testimonials here
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