tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15856676596548524002024-02-02T19:54:33.613-05:00Tai Chi With MelissaAn online resource for tai chi classes offered in Hamilton Ontario by Melissa SmithMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03341077005964035053noreply@blogger.comBlogger196125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585667659654852400.post-69278528974655147652023-09-13T13:31:00.001-04:002023-09-13T13:31:05.220-04:00Tai Chi and Qigong in Fall 2023<p>Dear All, <br /></p><div>I'm very much looking forward to the upcoming Tai Chi and Qigong season at the Regent Health Centre (150 Locke Street South) this fall. Here's the plan!<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>The start of new Tai Chi Beginners classes</b></div><div>We're running these classes three times a week, on Mondays at 11:30 am, Thursdays at 6:30 pm, and Saturdays at 1 pm. Beginners classes are an hour long, and will take you through Tai Chi foundation and the Tai Chi set from scratch. The first beginners class takes place on Monday, October 2nd. (See note below about Thanksgiving weekend.)<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>People who have completed a Beginners Tai Chi course and wish to review are always welcome to attend Beginners classes.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>More Qigong and sitting meditation</b></div><div>Our popular Qigong classes run Mondays at 1 pm and Saturdays at 2:15 pm. These classes are always open to beginners. Qigong exercises are simpler than Tai Chi and more repetitive, so can be a great point of entry if you're unsure about your schedule or how you will respond to new exercises—drop in anytime! We often use these classes for troubleshooting any physical issues participants may be experiencing, including typical areas of tension, wear and tear, and challenges stemming from injuries. Qigong is a great practice in its own right, and can greatly enhance your understanding of Tai Chi.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Traditionally, Tai Chi and Qigong exercises are done to prepare the body for sitting meditation. For those students who wish to pursue the complete range of benefits that Tai Chi and Qigong can offer, I offer instruction in sitting meditation during the Saturday Qigong class.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Intermediate Tai Chi<br /></b></div><div>These classes—Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5:15 pm—are for those who have completed Beginners and want to explore the next level of Tai Chi foundation, polish the form, and commit it to memory. Anyone who has completed Beginners Tai Chi is welcome to attend.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Advanced Topics</b></div><div>Advanced Tai Chi classes run on Mondays at 2:15 pm and Fridays at 1 pm. Anyone who has completed Beginners Tai Chi is welcome to attend, with the understanding that some lessons may be challenging. This fall, we'll continue studying Tai Chi, and go through Hsing-I foundation and the Hsing-I set. Hsing-I stepping, or the half-step push, is one of the keys to applying Tai Chi in martial art. This set is short in duration—it takes about five or six minutes to perform—and is deeply invigorating and powerful. <b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>In February 2024, I'll be introducing the sword set for those who haven't learned it before, or who want to go through it again in detail. Stay posted for more info!<b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>Lok Hup Ba Fa, Fridays at 2:15 pm: we'll continue where we left off in July, with deepening the moves and polishing the set. At this time, this class isn't open to people who haven't learned Lok Hup previously.<b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Thanksgiving Break</b></div><div>Note that classes are on for the week of October 2nd-6th, but we will be taking a break for Thanksgiving weekend. <b>There will be no classes on Saturday, October 7th, and Monday, October 9th. All other classes will run as usual in October.</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>New Fees as of October 2023*</b></div><div><b>$17.50 + HST / class<br /></b></div><div><b>$70 + HST / monthly pass<br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>Monthly passes allow you to attend as many classes as you wish to throughout the month. This is by design: we want you to come often and get the most from your practice! The passes expire at the end of each calendar month. If you plan to attend five or more classes from the time of purchase, you'll save some money. Please consult your calendars and plan accordingly, rather than asking the front desk to do special math. <br /></div><div><br /></div><div>If you're brand new and unsure about whether you want to commit to a monthly pass, you can pay at the end of your first class.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>
<b>*If you attended in August and September: </b>please check your records and / or confirm with the front desk that
you're all caught up on your fees for August and September! If you wait to pay, you
may be charged the new rate.<b>* <br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>To view the complete schedule and for up-to-date information, check the website:</b></div><div>http://taichionlocke.blogspot.com/p/class-schedule-and-fees.html</div><div><br /></div><div>As always, if you have any questions or concerns, you're welcome to contact me by email or at (905) 521-0043. I hope to see you soon!</div><div><br /></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03341077005964035053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585667659654852400.post-5511822492605686002023-04-18T11:15:00.000-04:002023-04-18T11:15:00.681-04:00May 2023 and Beyond at the Regent Centre<p> </p><div>Hi everyone!</div><div><br /></div><div>Your intrepid Tai Chi and Qigong instructors are going to take a little bit of a break in May this year. Please note our away dates on your calendars:</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>There will be no classes from Monday, May 1st to Tuesday, May 9th. We're also taking the long weekend off, so there will be no classes on Saturday, May 20th or Monday, May 22nd.</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>All other classes will run as usual.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>We're offering the monthly pass in May at a reduced rate of $55 + HST. If you're attending four or more classes in May, you'll save a bit of money with the pass. If you plan to attend three or fewer classes, it'll make more sense to pay per class. Plan accordingly!</div><div><br /></div><div>Classes will run as usual with some exceptions for holiday weekends in June and July. In August and September, I'll be away for my annual hiatus, during which I focus on my own training and plan for the year to come. Last year we ran classes during this time with the help of advanced students and my co-instructors. I'll inform everyone well ahead of time what we're planning to do this time around!</div><div><br /></div><div>If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me at smithmk2@gmail.com or (905) 521-0043.</div><div><br /></div><div>Cheers,</div><div>Melissa.</div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03341077005964035053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585667659654852400.post-40526536701254777652022-09-12T22:35:00.005-04:002022-09-12T22:35:25.743-04:00Tai Chi and Qigong at the Regent Centre, October 2022 and OnwardsDear All,<br /><br /><div>I'm delighted to let you know that Tai Chi and Qigong will soon be back in full swing at The Regent Centre, 150 Locke Street South, following a successful summer of practice. We offer a program that teaches you how to release tension, build physical strength and flexibility, sharpen mental focus, and open your heart. <br /><br />Our core teachings are Taoist temple-based soft martial arts including Tai Chi, healing exercises rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Taoist meditation. I am honoured and privileged to have received these teachings from talented and knowledgeable Masters who diligently preserved them and passed them on to me.<br /><br />We live in tricky, distracting, and stressful times. It's wonderful to have a set of tools that will not only help you cope, but enable you to thrive. I sincerely hope you'll join us this fall.<br /><br /><b>The new Tai Chi and Qigong season starts Friday, October 1st. <br /></b><br /><b>What's New With Regent Centre Classes<br /></b>If you've never done Tai Chi before or want to study the Tai Chi set from the top, we're adding two new Beginners time slots to our current schedule, on Tuesday and Thursday early evenings. These classes will start from the very beginning in October.<br /><br />Our Saturday Beginners class will carry on from its current place in the set. If you've been attending those classes, or if you know some Tai Chi and want to refresh your memory of the middle part of the set, the Saturday Beginners class will be a great fit.<br /><br />Our most popular class, Qigong, which is always open to brand new beginners, gets an additional time slot on Tuesday afternoons, in addition to the Monday class.<br /><br />Fees are increasing a modest $5 / month, to $65 + HST. For that rate, you can attend as many classes as you wish. The per class rate remains the same at $15 + HST.<br /><br />For the Fall 2022 Tai Chi and Qigong schedule and information on how to join, scroll down to the end of this post or <a href="http://taichionlocke.blogspot.com/p/class-schedule-and-fees.html">go to the class schedule online here</a>. <br /><br /><b>One on One Reiki Healing Sessions<br /></b>This summer I've been deepening my study of Reiki healing by taking classes to become a Master Teacher. Reiki is a powerful modality that allows you to receive an infusion of energy exactly suited to your needs. (I'm not a Master Teacher yet, but if all goes well I'll receive my certification this fall. If you're interested in learning Reiki, please get in touch! I'll add you to a separate mailing list for Reiki classes.)<br /><br />I've been a Reiki Master Healer since 2012, and have been working with clients one-on-one since then. Healing sessions last around two hours. I draw on my skill with guided meditation, movement, Reiki healing, and other healing techniques to craft a unique approach tailored to your individual needs. You can expect to come away feeling relaxed, refreshed, and empowered with techniques you can use to deepen and continue healing. A session is an excellent complement to your Tai Chi training and can help address any issues that you would like to work on more intensively.<br /><br />I'm opening my Reiki practice to new clients this fall. I will have time slots available throughout the week, but Tuesday morning and early afternoon will always be set aside for clients if you want to plan ahead.<br /><br />My fee for Reiki healing is $90 per session. To book, please email or call.<br /><br />As always if you have any questions at all, please ask at <a href="mailto:smithmk2@gmail.com">smithmk2@gmail.com</a> or (905) 521-0043. If you don't wish to receive these messages, please let me know and I'll remove you from my mailing list.<br /><br />Sincerely looking forward to seeing you this fall,<br /><br />Melissa.<br /><br /><b>SCHEDULE FOR CLASSES AT THE REGENT CENTRE<br />OCTOBER 2022-SUMMER 2023<br />150 Locke Street South, Hamilton, Ontario<br /></b><br /><b>All classes are taught by Melissa Smith except Thursday evening Beginners, which will be taught by Sam Rush. </b><br /><br /><b>MONDAY</b><br />Qigong 1-2 pm (beginners welcome!)<br />Break: 2-2:15<br />Advanced Tai Chi 2:15-3:15 pm<br /><br /><b>TUESDAY</b><br />Qigong 4-5 pm (beginners welcome!)<br />Break: 5-5:15<br />Beginners Tai Chi 5:15-6:15 <br />*this class is open to brand new beginners as of October 2022<br /><br /><b>WEDNESDAY</b><br />Advanced Review noon-1:30 pm<br /><br /><b>THURSDAY</b><br />Beginners Tai Chi 6-7 pm (Instructor: Sam Rush)<br />*this class is open to brand new beginners as of October 2022<br /><br /><b>FRIDAY</b><br />Advanced Tai Chi 1-2 pm<br />Break: 2-2:15<br />Lok Hup Ba Fa 2:15-3:15 pm<br /><br /><b>SATURDAY</b><br />Beginners Tai Chi 1-2 pm <br />*this class is for people who began attending in Summer 2022<br />Break: 2-2:15<br />Advanced Review 2:15-3:45 pm (Bring your weapons!)<br /><br /><b>Fees: $15 + HST / class<br />$65 + HST / monthly pass *new rate as of October 2022</b><br /><br /><a href="https://form.jotform.com/212316795185057">If you would like to attend class, and haven't done so before, please fill out a registration form.</a> <br /><br />Payment for in-person classes will be done through the Regent Centre's online portal at <a href="http://regenthealthcentre.ca/">regenthealthcentre.ca</a>, or at the front desk when you attend class. You'll also use this portal to sign up for the classes you want to attend. Signing up ahead of time will ensure there's room for you at class before you come to the Centre, and will assist us with contact tracing if there's a potential Covid exposure.<br /><br /><a href="https://regenthealthcentre.janeapp.com/#/discipline/12">Access the online schedule and follow the instructions for signing up here.</a> If you need additional help, call the Regent Centre during business hours at (905) 523-4999.<br /><br /><br /><br /></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03341077005964035053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585667659654852400.post-38490852790752350232022-07-28T23:34:00.001-04:002022-07-28T23:34:11.491-04:00Tai Chi and Qigong, August and September 2022Dear All,<br /><br />If you've been attending classes at the Regent Centre this summer, you probably already have this information, but I'm writing to let everyone in on the plan for classes in the coming months.<br /><br />For August and September, I'll be taking my annual hiatus. I'm teaching my last two sessions on Friday, July 29th and Saturday, July 30th, and will return on Saturday, October 1st for what I'm sure will be an excellent year.<br /><br />This is a time for me to recharge and work on my own training so I can come back to class with fresh insights in October. In the past, classes have been on hold during my break, but this year, several people from the advanced group have agreed to manage classes while I'm away.<br /><br />Saturday Beginner's classes (1-2pm) will continue from where they are right now (at Carry Tiger to Mountain), with Sam Rush and Gillianne Shaver instructing. Between them, Sam and Gillianne have taught Beginner's Tai Chi many times over, so you'll be in good hands if you choose to attend! (If you're looking to start from the very beginning, please get in touch so I can advise you.)<br /><br />The other classes will be offered as practice sessions. Advanced people have agreed to keep things on track so that everyone gets a good workout. The schedule will remain the same—see the end of this message.<br /><br /><b>Holidays: <br /></b><br /><b>There will be no classes on Monday, August 1st, and no classes on Friday, September 2nd, Saturday, September 3rd, or Monday, September 5th. </b>All other classes will run according to the schedule. If you can sign up for a class via the Regent Centre site, you can attend it. <br /><br />For news and announcements about plans for October, watch this space! The schedule will remain mostly the same.<br /><br />While I'm away, if you need to book or cancel a last-minute class, pay for classes, or have any questions about bookings, please ask at the front desk or contact the Centre by phone during business hours: (905) 523-4999.<br /><br />Gillianne has agreed to communicate with the group about any changes to the schedule, and any concerns around Covid transmission. If you develop symptoms or test positive after attending a class, please let her know: <a href="mailto:dgillianne@gmail.com">dgillianne@gmail.com</a>. (She can't help you with your class bookings, though, so please contact the Centre front desk about any issues with bookings or payment!)<br /><br />If you have any questions, please let me know! I'm very grateful to be part of such an enthusiastic community, and looking forward to offering more teachings this fall. If you'd like to stop receiving these messages, please ask to be removed from the list.<br /><br />Cheers,<br />Melissa.<br /><br />SCHEDULE FOR CLASSES AT THE REGENT CENTRE<br /><br />MONDAY<br />Qigong 1-2 pm (beginners welcome!)<br />Break: 2-2:15<br />Advanced Tai Chi 2:15-3:15 pm<br /><br />WEDNESDAY<br />Advanced Review noon-1:30 pm<br /><br />FRIDAY<br />Advanced Tai Chi 1-2 pm<br />Break: 2-2:15<br />Lok Hup Ba Fa 2:15-3:15 pm<br /><br />SATURDAY<br />Beginners Tai Chi 1-2 pm<br />Break: 2-2:15<br />Advanced Review 2:15-3:45 pm (Bring your weapons!)Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03341077005964035053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585667659654852400.post-44829603375240635962022-04-20T12:09:00.004-04:002022-04-20T12:10:42.147-04:00Classes at the Regent Health Centre, New Start Date: May 13, 2022Dear All,<br /><br />I hope the impending arrival of spring is giving you all something to look forward to and enjoy. Like many of you, I've been spending more time than I would have thought possible working in the garden and enjoying the little signs that the season is progressing nicely.<br /><br />I've been keeping an eye on the Covid situation throughout April. I had hoped to see more improvement by now in the <a href="#">wastewater signal</a>, which I'm currently using as the key indicator of where things are at. I'm sure you're aware that hospitalizations are also up this week. Although wastewater indicators suggest that the current wave has finally started to come down in Ontario as a whole, our local signal is still on the rise. (If you scroll down a bit at the link above, our graph is Central West, excluding the GTA.) At this point I think most of us know someone who has picked up a Covid infection despite taking reasonable precautions. <br /><br />So, I'm pushing back the start date at the Regent Centre to mid-May, with the hope that we'll see the substantial improvement we need to see by early May. I'll be in touch by May 5th to confirm the new start date. <br /><br />If all goes well:<br /><br /><b>CLASSES WILL RESUME ON FRIDAY, MAY 13, 2022<br /></b>(maybe this will be our lucky day!)<br /><br /><b>CLASS SIGNUPS WILL OPEN TEN DAYS AHEAD OF TIME, AFTER THE ANNOUNCEMENT CONFIRMING CLASSES ARE GOING AHEAD<br /></b><br />I didn't get into this in my previous message, but we will still be using the online class signup system, since this is how the Centre determines billing. As before, you'll pay the Regent Centre directly for all your classes. You can pay one class at a time ($15 + HST) or the monthly fee ($60 + HST). I am expanding the class capacities so there should be room for everyone. I'll send complete instructions when it's time to sign up, but essentially, it works just like making an appointment. Please don't worry about signing up until May 5th.<br /><br /><b>SCHEDULE FOR CLASSES AT THE REGENT CENTRE<br /></b>When we resume, the schedule will be as follows. I'll be teaching all classes personally at first. My plan is to add more beginner's classes and Qigong into the schedule in the fall.<br /><br /><b>MONDAY</b><br />Qigong 1-2 pm<br />Advanced Tai Chi 2:15-3:15 pm<br /><br /><b>FRIDAY</b><br />Advanced Tai Chi 1-2 pm<br />Lok Hup Ba Fa 2:15-3:15 pm<br /><br /><b>SATURDAY</b><br />Beginners Tai Chi 1-2 pm<br />Advanced Review 2:15-3:45 pm<br /><br />Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns, or if you'd like more information about classes. Contact me at (905) 521-0043 or smithmk2@gmail.com.<br /><br />Cheers,<br />Melissa Smith<br />Lead Tai Chi Instructor @ Regent Health CentreMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03341077005964035053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585667659654852400.post-59606674454389269222022-03-02T17:37:00.001-05:002022-03-02T17:37:44.934-05:00Tai Chi and Qigong Update, March 2022Dear All,<br /><br />I hope you're doing well. For those of you who haven't been at online classes, I wanted to give you a quick update on the state of in-person classes. Basically, the theme of the moment is: not yet, but maybe soon?<br /><br />I'm sure we're all eager for things to return to some semblance of normalcy. With the province lifting safety measures, things are going to be in a state of flux. The main challenge to reopening right now is that, while key stats have been improving, I don't have confidence they will continue to move in the right direction throughout March, or improve as much as they need to in order for us to meet and work out together safely.<br /><br />So, we need to wait and see, and be patient for a while longer. I'm optimistic that if we time this wisely, we can reconvene without disruptions. My other aim is to reopen at a time when we don't need to restrict numbers as much as we did in November and December. This will ease pressure on all of us, so we can come together without worrying about whether there will be space for everyone in class.<br /><br />I'm looking at a possible reopening in April, if hospitalisations, deaths, positivity rates, and wastewater measures fall sufficiently throughout March. Otherwise (and more likely) it'll be May. With warmer weather, I'm hopeful that numbers will naturally improve. Worst case scenario, we could meet for outdoor classes in May and throughout the summer.<br /><br />I will be making a decision about April by March 21st. If you don't hear from me by then, look for an announcement about May. That will come by April 21st.<br /><br />Thank you all so much for continuing to be patient. If you have any questions or concerns, or feedback about any of the above, I'm happy to hear it. My main concern is that you are all well and safe, and that we can enjoy ourselves when it's time to meet in person again.<br /><br />Cheers,<br />Melissa.<br />p.s. as you know if you've been attending online, I've been tweaking the schedule. The current online schedule is below. <br /><br /><br /><b>The Online Schedule<br />Monday<br /></b>Qigong 1-2 pm<br />Tai Chi and Lok Hup Ba Fa 2-3 pm<br /><br /><b>Thursday<br /></b>Qigong 6:30-8pm<br />***First Thursday of the month: sitting meditation instruction and practice included in class***<br /><br /><b>Saturday</b><br />Tai Chi Beginners 1-2 pm<br />Other Forms Review 2-3 pm<br /><br /><b>TO ATTEND<br /></b>Contact me at smithmk2@gmail.com for the Zoom link. If you've attended in the past, it's the same link I've used before.<br /><br /><b>FEES<br /></b>$60 / month or $15 / class, payable by etransfer to <a href="mailto:smithmk2@gmail.com">smithmk2@gmail.com</a>. I'm waiving HST while classes are online. Please pay me directly until we're back to in-person classes again. Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03341077005964035053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585667659654852400.post-28823813384423259292021-12-19T19:55:00.005-05:002022-02-07T11:52:28.371-05:00Tai Chi and Qigong During Omicron, plus Guided Meditation Sessions, Winter 2022Dear All, <br /><br />I hope this finds you well and holding steady despite the emergence of Pandemic 2.0: Just in Time for Christmas. I'm sending this to my complete list in case you've been thinking about returning to / starting classes, or wondering if I'm going to be running any guided meditations this winter. If I haven't chatted with you in a while, hello! This is a bit of a long note but there is, well, a lot to discuss.<br /><br /><br /><b>In this post:<br />(1) Tai Chi and Qigong classes are moving to online-only for January and possibly (probably) beyond, schedule below<br />(2) You're all invited to join me in a guided meditation session to celebrate solstice (and the fact that we're still here), Thursday, December 23rd, 6-8pm. (Scroll down to the bottom of this message for more info.)</b><div><b><br /></b><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Tai Chi and Qigong Moving Online, starting Monday, December 20th<br /></b></span><br />Sam, Gillianne, and I have had a chance to discuss how we're feeling in light of the current situation with the Omicron variant. We agreed that doing in-person class safely depends on two things: (1) a vaccine that provides sufficient protection and (2) sufficiently low numbers in the general population. With the new variant, we've lost both of those necessary conditions, so we are shutting down in-person classes starting now. It simply doesn't make sense to run a class for health and wellbeing when doing so poses a potential threat to health and wellbeing.<br /><br />I will continue to offer classes through Zoom until it's safe to go back to in-person. I will be re-evaluating this decision on a month by month basis, so January will definitely be online only. If it looks like February will be clear enough, we'll return. If there's any question, we'll be online until March, etc., etc. You will have tons of heads up before we return to in-person classes. I will notify you all by email.<br /><br />Online classes are (obviously) different from in-person, but I promise I can offer you a positive, uplifting experience that's absolutely as much of a good workout as you would get at the Centre. <br /><br />Yes, you will most likely have to learn how to work out in a smaller space. Yes, you will be dealing with your at-home distractions (and my barky dog, probably). Yes, you will get to know at least one of my cats pretty well. <br /><br />I can say, however, that the classes I taught online over the past couple of years were some of the best I've ever run. This is a great opportunity to teach you how to get in touch with what you're actually doing (versus what you should be doing) and to correct your technique. You'll learn how to transform common household items (mostly, chairs, doorways, and your kitchen sink) into helpful props for retraining your muscles and releasing the bodily habits that create aches and pains. Class is a wonderful thing, but your Tai Chi and Qigong practice really only becomes yours when you work out in your own space. Let's do that together.<br /><br />The schedule will be similar to the in-person schedule. I'm preserving the breaks between classes as an opportunity for you to chat and touch base with each other without cutting into class time.<br /><br /><b>For beginners:</b> Sam and Gillianne have thoroughly enjoyed teaching you this fall, but are unable to teach via Zoom, so Tuesday evening and Wednesday afternoon classes are on hold for now. I am opening the Saturday class from 1-2 pm just for you. (This includes those of you who are brand new and those who've been attending beginners for review purposes.) I've planned to use this time to help you make sure you don't lose the excellent progress you've made so far this year, and to carry on with learning the set at a slow, steady pace. I'm really looking forward to working on this with you. Beginners are as always also very welcome at Qigong.<br /><br /><b>For people who've been wanting to do more meditation, guided and otherwise:</b> Thursday evening Qigong classes (6:30-8pm) will now include a sitting meditation session on the first Thursday of the month, and will be replaced with a guided meditation session on the third Thursday of the month. Guided meditation sessions will start at 6pm to allow us an opportunity to check in before we meditate. More info at the end of this message.***<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>The Online Schedule</b></span><br /><b>Monday</b><br />Tai Chi Ongoing 1-2 pm<br />Lok Hup Ba Fa 2:15-3:15 pm<br />Qigong 3:30-4:30 pm<br /><br /><b>Thursday</b><br />Qigong 6:30-8pm<br />***First Thursday of the month: sitting meditation instruction and practice included in class***<br />***Third Thursday of the month: guided meditation 6pm-8pm***<br /><br /><b>Saturday</b><br />Tai Chi Beginners 1-2 pm<br />Other Forms Review 2:15-3:45 pm<br /><br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: medium;">TO ATTEND</span></b><br /><br />To attend, EMAIL ME at smithmk2@gmail.com for the Zoom link. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you encounter any difficulty, text me at 905 521-0043. I keep my phone nearby at the beginning of class, but I will not be checking email immediately before or during class.<br /><br />THERE IS NO NEED TO SIGN UP AHEAD OF TIME OR LIMIT YOURSELF TO YOUR CLASS SIGNUP DATES YOU CHOSE EARLIER. THERE IS NO CLASS CAPACITY LIMIT ON ZOOM. PLEASE JUST COME. If you've attended online classes before, it's the same Zoom room we've always used.<br /><br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: medium;">FEES</span></b><br />$60 / month or $15 / class, payable by etransfer. I'm waving HST while classes are online. Please pay me directly until we're back to in-person classes again. <br /><br /><b>If you don't wish to attend online and/or if I owe you fees back because of the way December played out, please just contact me and ask. It's not a problem at all. I'm happy to refund whatever part of your fees you didn't get to use. I'll send you the money via etransfer.</b><br /><br /><br /><b><span style="font-size: medium;">GUIDED MEDITATION, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 23rd, 6-8pm</span></b><br /><br /><b>*Please pop me an email at <a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/1/#">smithmk2@gmail.com</a> to let me know you'd like to attend*</b><br /><br />Sometimes what we really need is to take a break, reflect, and regroup. I've been leading guided meditations for a few years now, and have found it's a wonderful way to come back to earth when events strive to unmoor us. <br /><br />It may seem odd to do a meditation session remotely via the internet, but those who participated in meditations over the past year or two found it's actually a lovely excuse to cosy up under a blanket, lie back, and enjoy a deep, soothing, and relaxing experience. (Plus there's no commute home afterward!) If you've never done guided meditation before, it's a form of energy healing that involves listening to my voice as I take you on a fun adventure via images that I describe.<br /><br />Everyone is welcome. There's no charge for this session. It's my gift to those of you who would like to attend.<br /><br /><b>FUTURE GUIDED MEDITATIONS WILL TAKE PLACE ON</b> Thursday, January 20th and Thursday, February 17, also from 6-8pm. Mark your calendars, and please let me know if you'd like to come! These sessions will be included as part of your monthly Tai Chi fees, or are $15 each.<br /><br /><br />Please let me know if you have any questions at all (again: smithmk2@gmail.com or (905) 521-0043). I hope you stay safe and if I don't see you beforehand, have an excellent and joyous holiday season.<br /><br /><br />Cheers,<br />Melissa.</div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03341077005964035053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585667659654852400.post-50312383297455465382021-11-04T16:21:00.007-04:002021-11-04T16:23:04.907-04:00Dear All,<br /><br />As you probably know, classes at The Regent Centre resumed at the beginning of the month. It's been really good to work with some of you live and in person, and I'm very much looking forward to seeing more of you in the near future.<br /><br />With limits in place on class capacity, November classes filled up pretty quickly. Sign-up for December classes is coming soon (November 10th-ish). Look for instructions on how and when to sign up in your email inbox before then. (Psst: you have <a href="https://form.jotform.com/212316795185057">to fill out a registration form</a> in order to be included on mailings about classes at the Centre.)<br /><br />If you don't have immediate plans to come to the Centre, but you want to study with me, or if you're part of classes and you want to do more, Qigong sessions on Zoom are starting tonight, and running every Thursday from 6:30-8pm. Thursday Qigong is always included in your fee at the Regent Centre, but this month, I'm offering the classes for free to anyone who wishes to join. Qigong is always open to new beginners. You can join anytime and attend as many or as few classes as you wish. (If you want to continue online only in December, please contact me for payment details.)<br /><br />There is something wonderful about practicing in your own space, and learning how to balance the rest of your life with a meditative focus. You improve the quality of your own emotional and physical being when you do Qigong, since the practice brings you into alignment with natural energies. In turn, this transforms the quality of the space around you. Practicing with us online is an excellent way to bridge the gap between class and the rest of your life, since the subtle energy shifts that you bring to your own home last far longer than the duration of the class, and will help you feel supported and uplifted for days to come.<br /><br />Qigong is ideal for even small spaces. You only need an area about the size of a yoga mat to do it. If you come, wear clothes you can stretch and bend in, and place a hard-backed chair, like a kitchen or dining room chair, nearby.<br /><br />To join class, use the link below and follow the instructions. If you've joined my Zoom classes before, this is the same link we've always used. If you haven't joined before or you need me to send you the link, email me at smithmk2@gmail.com.<br /><br />Even if you're not able to make class, I wanted to point you to a documentary I discovered recently, which is an amazing example of the transformative effects of working with natural energies. Over the course of my break, I had some experiences up north that led me to investigating animal communication and tracking. When I came back, I learned about Anna Breytenbach, who works in South Africa to help humans understand animals and their needs. She consults with sanctuaries and rescue organisations to help their resident animals in a way that is quite remarkable. The heart of her practice is simply going into nature and being quiet there. For those of us who were raised to be skeptics and doubt the presence or effectiveness of energy, it's deeply instructive to see the tangible effects of being so clear and present, she can hang out with wild baboons and broker a better relationship between a black leopard and his keeper.<br /><br />In my practice, I find it very helpful to look at other peoples' experience and expand my concepts of what this world is all about, and where our talents and abilities truly lie. A fundamental truth that I repeatedly encounter is that we're capable of so much more than we think. I find it inspiring and mind-opening to see what other people have discovered (and re-discovered) about what we can do. I hope you find it inspiring too!<br /><br />Trigger Warning: there are some images of injured baboons between 4 minutes into the documentary and 6 minutes 30 seconds. Nothing gory at all, but you might want to skip those minutes if that type of content is hard for you to watch.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rQehXoCipts&t=1s&ab_channel=RealWild">Click here to view the documentary on YouTube.</a><br /><br />Have a wonderful day, and if you have any questions or concerns, as always, email me at <a href="https://draft.blogger.com/u/1/#">smithmk2@gmail.com</a> or call (905) 521-0043.<br /><br />Cheers,<br />Melissa.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" role="presentation" style="background-color: white; border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: Roboto, RobotoDraft, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: small; width: 100%px;"><tbody><tr><td align="left" class="m_7147400449009013626r10-c" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px;"><br /></td></tr><tr><td align="left" class="m_7147400449009013626r10-c" style="border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03341077005964035053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585667659654852400.post-25941466768733190482021-09-10T16:15:00.014-04:002021-09-21T14:39:56.264-04:00In-Person Classes Begin Again on 1st November, 2021Dear All,<br /><br />After much coordination with the good folks at The Regent Health Centre, I'm cautiously anticipating a return to in-person classes this fall. If it's safe for us to run classes, we will.<div><br /><b>Where: The (gloriously revamped!) Studio at The Regent Centre, 150 Locke St. South.<br /></b> <br /><b>When: Classes will begin on Friday, November 1st, 2021</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>***NOTE: this start date is different from what was previously announced***<br /></b> <br />Matt and Mel have done an incredible job updating the Centre with beautiful new paint and clearing the Studio of excess stuff. It's going to be such a nice space for us to work out in together.<br /> <br />Our group's needs have evolved since I last designed the schedule. I've shifted class content to better represent where people's interests lie. You can view the complete shiny and new schedule at the end of this message, or <a href="http://taichionlocke.blogspot.com/p/class-schedule-and-fees.html" target="">go to the schedule and fees page to look at it now</a>. It includes some more detailed information about each class.<br /> <br />I understand that safety concerns are going to be ongoing. We will almost certainly be required to be flexible this year. Matt and Mel and I have worked out a safety plan that I hope will help us all feel more comfortable. <a href="http://taichionlocke.blogspot.com/p/health-and-safety-for-in-person-classes.html" target="">You can view the health and safety plan here</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>Please bear in mind that we may have to put in-person classes on hold again, depending on what the Province and our own wisdom tells us. Should we need to shut down, I'll be running the complete new schedule via Zoom, with some minor adjustments. If that doesn't suit you, but you do want to attend in-person classes, please feel free to pay per class rather than monthly, in case we have to pivot.<br /> <br />For people who aren't ready to return to in-person classes yet, I'm planning to continue teaching Qigong online once a week, and I'll be running online Guided Meditation classes on Sunday evenings again this fall and winter. (More details on that to follow.)<br /> <br />I'm sure you'll have questions and may want some immediate answers, or just want to say hi before we reconvene. If you're concerned at all, please don't hesitate to contact me at smithmk2@gmail.com or (905) 521-0043.<br /><br /><br /> <br /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><b>IMPORTANT: Please Fill Out an Online Registration Form</b></h2>This is to ensure that all my information for you is up-to-date and in one place. It doesn't commit you to anything, but I will use the list of people who register as a contact list for classes. To stay informed of what's going on at the Centre, you have to fill out a form.<br /> <br />Note: you must provide proof of full vaccination before you can attend a class. The Province of Ontario is requiring participants in gym and studio classes to provide proof of vaccination as of October 4th, 2021. There is a field for uploading a photo or screenshot of your vaccine receipt on the registration form, or you can simply bring proof of vaccination to class.<br /> <br /><a href="https://form.jotform.com/212316795185057" target="">Click here to access the secure Registration Form.</a><br /> <br />If you have difficulty with the form, get in touch at smithmk2@gmail.com or (905) 521-0043 and I'll help you fill it out.<br /><br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">NEW: Signing Up for the Classes You Want to Attend</h2>To help manage the limit on attendance, the Centre has implemented an online sign-up system so you will know if there's room for you at class before you come. You'll be required to sign up for every class you plan to attend. Each class listed on the schedule requires a separate sign-up. Even if you're attending two classes in a row on the same day, you'll need to put your name in for each one. You'll be able to sign up for more than one class at a time. If you can't attend a class you've signed up for, I'll ask that you take your name off the class for that day so someone else can attend.<br /> <br />I know this is going to be a big change, but it will assist us with contact tracing and will also help me know what to expect before I come to class, which will be a big help to me.<br /> <br />If you're unable to access the online portal to sign up for classes, you'll be able to contact the Regent Centre front desk so they can put your name in for you. I will also be able to sign you up for classes.<br /> <br />I'll be sending more detailed instructions on how class sign-up will work to everyone who fills out a Registration form. I should have this information by mid-September. Don't worry, though! I'm told most people find it very easy once they get the hang of it. <br /><br /><br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">2021 Class Schedule</h2>Now for the fun stuff! I've put a lot of thought into the new schedule. We'll still be doing plenty of Tai Chi, but there will be three Qigong sessions each week, as well as advanced content for those of you who've worked on the other internal martial arts. I'm dedicating two classes per week to Lok Hup Ba Fa / Liu He Ba Fa, an advanced art that is rarely taught, and extremely beneficial. (It's like Tai Chi Plus!) This will be a chance to go over the complete form from the beginning, and polish it well.<br /> <br />Beginner's classes will run courtesy of the astounding Sam Rush and the incredible Gillianne Shaver. I'll be teaching all other classes.<br /> <br />All classes are at The Regent Centre unless otherwise noted. <a href="http://taichionlocke.blogspot.com/p/class-schedule-and-fees.html" target="">Go to the schedule and fees page to read a more detailed description of each class</a>.<br /> <br /><b>Monday<br />Continuing Tai Chi: 1-2 pm <br />Lok Hup Ba Fa: 2:15-3:15 pm<br />Qigong: 3:30-4:30 pm<br /> <br />Tuesday<br />Beginner's Tai Chi: 5:30-7 pm<br /> <br />Wednesday<br />Beginner's Tai Chi: 1-2:30 pm<br /> <br />Thursday<br />Qigong: 6:30-8 pm (Online)<br /> <br />Friday<br />Continuing Tai Chi: 1-2 pm<br />Lok Hup Ba Fa: 2:15-3:15 pm<br /><br />Saturday<br />Qigong: 1-2 pm<br />Tai Chi and Other Forms Review: 2:15-3:45 pm<br /><br /></b><h2 style="text-align: left;"><b>Fall 2021 / Winter 2022 Fees</b></h2>Monthly: $60 plus HST<br />Per-class: $15 plus HST</div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03341077005964035053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585667659654852400.post-79988674675422060682021-05-20T23:22:00.001-04:002021-05-20T23:22:38.435-04:00Schedule Change to Saturday Online Classes<p>Dear All,</p><p>I've already announced this at class, but in response to student interest, I'm making a change to the Saturday class schedule.</p><p>Beginning this coming Saturday, May 22, 2021, the Saturday online program will be as follows:</p><p>1-2:30 pm Qigong<br />2:30-4 pm Advanced Tai Chi</p><p>NOTE that Saturday classes will no longer start at noon. This will make the timing of classes the same as it is on Mondays and Wednesdays. There will be no other changes. Current beginners are absolutely welcome and encouraged to attend Intermediate Tai Chi in order to supplement their practice. </p><p>The complete schedule is as follows: </p><p><b>Monday</b><br />Qigong 1pm-2pm<br />Intermediate Tai Chi 2-3pm<br />Continuing Practice, focusing on Lok Hup Ba Fa 3-4 pm<br /><br /><b>Wednesday</b><br />Beginner's Tai Chi 1-2pm<br />Intermediate Tai Chi 2-3pm<br />Continuing Practice, focusing on Lok Hup Ba Fa 3-4pm<br /></p><div><b>Saturday</b><br />Qigong 1:00-2:30 pm<br />Continuing Tai Chi 2:30-4 pm</div><p> </p>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03341077005964035053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585667659654852400.post-51275970686525316782021-04-30T23:27:00.003-04:002021-04-30T23:27:50.688-04:00Rescheduling Qigong for May 2021<p>Dear All,</p><p>As I announced in my last message, I'm taking some time away from class in May 2021. Since that announcement, one of our members requested that the Qigong classes that will be missed because of my away dates be made up by rescheduling Qigong to Wednesdays, where it will (temporarily!!) replace Tai Chi Beginners. I can't replace all three of the Qigong sessions we'll be skipping, but we can make up two of them. So:</p><p><b>There will be NO CLASSES on the following dates:</b></p><p><b>Saturday, May 8</b></p><p><b>Monday, May 10</b></p><p><b>Monday, May 17</b></p><p><b>MAKE-UP QIGONG CLASSES will run on </b><b>Wednesday, May 12, from 1-2 pm, and Wednesday, May 19, from 1-2 pm. </b></p><p>I hope this compromise works for you! I expect Tai Chi Beginners will work extra hard to make up for their missing classes. </p><p><b>All other classes will run as usual in May, including Tai Chi Beginners. As previously announced, the fee for May will be reduced to $40.</b></p><p>If you've already paid fees for May, I can refund your $10, or you can pay $10 less in June, just let me know.</p><p>Cheers, and hope to see you at class,</p><p>Melissa.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03341077005964035053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585667659654852400.post-67446352078836417652021-04-23T12:09:00.003-04:002021-04-30T23:19:06.947-04:00May 2021<p>Dear All,</p><p>Just a quick note to let you know I'll be taking some time away from classes in May 2021.</p><p><b>There will be NO CLASSES on the following dates:</b></p><p><b>Saturday, May 8</b></p><p><b>Monday, May 10</b></p><p><b>Monday, May 17</b></p><p><b>All other classes will run as usual in May. The fee for May will be reduced to $40.</b></p><p>If you've already paid fees for May, I can refund your $10, or you can pay $10 less in June, just let me know.</p><p>Cheers, and hope to see you at class,</p><p>Melissa.</p>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03341077005964035053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585667659654852400.post-88604110384950338952021-03-31T17:19:00.002-04:002021-03-31T17:19:23.475-04:00No Classes this Saturday, April 3rd, 2021<p> Hi All, </p><p>Just a quick note to let you know I'm taking a break this Easter Weekend. </p><p><b>THERE WILL BE NO CLASSES ON SATURDAY, APRIL 3rd, 2021. All other classes will run as usual, including Easter Monday.</b></p><p>Have a great weekend! See you Monday.</p>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03341077005964035053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585667659654852400.post-44225371285032943622021-02-07T11:36:00.001-05:002021-02-07T11:36:09.456-05:00Happy February, and a Note About Family Day<p>Hi everyone,</p><p>I hope this finds you well and enjoying our spate of more-wintery weather. Online classes continue to run throughout the winter and beyond!</p><p>Just a quick note to say <b>there will be NO CLASSES on Monday, February 15, 2021</b>. I'm planning to take Family Day to spend with my family, like you do. </p><p>All other classes will run as usual in February. </p><p>Stay warm, and hope to see you soon.</p>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03341077005964035053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585667659654852400.post-13179918849103804772020-12-26T19:34:00.003-05:002020-12-26T22:18:11.179-05:00Monthly Fee Change in 2021Dear All,<div><br /></div><div>I've been absolutely delighted by the persistence many of you have shown in continuing with your Tai Chi and Qigong studies throughout 2020, through our Zoom sessions. It's been my pleasure to continue to offer instruction, as well as to include Lok Hup Ba Fa and other advanced sets as part of our continuing exploration of the Taoist arts. </div><div><br /></div><div>Something I haven't shared with you is that I had intended to increase the monthly fees this year, starting with our new teaching season in October 2020. I delayed announcing that decision because current events have seemed to provide a never-ending cornucopia of changes, and I didn't want to introduce anything new into the mix.</div><div><br /></div><div>I know things are still in flux, but it is necessary for me to introduce the planned fee increase now. I hope you'll understand that this change is vital to my ability to support all of you. In return, I'll continue to offer the highest quality of instruction.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Beginning in January 2021, the fee for Tai Chi and Qigong lessons is $50 / month.</b></div><div><b>If you are a student, on ODSP, OW, or in financial need, the fee is $30 / month.</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>I understand that there may be some of you who have lost work or income due to covid. Since I'm in the same boat, I understand completely. If you had budgeted for the previous rate of $40 / month and you can't afford more, please let me know. My priority is that you are able to continue studying Tai Chi and Qigong, and I'll do whatever I can to facilitate that.</div><div><br /></div><div>Thanks for understanding. All my best to you and yours. See you on December 30th for class (<a href="https://taichionlocke.blogspot.com/2020/12/december-2020-holiday-schedule.html" target="_blank">don't forget the schedule's a bit different that day!</a>), and / or in 2021. </div><div><br /></div><div><i>If you need to contact me for whatever reason, please do so at smithmk2@gmail.com or (905) 521-0043.</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><i><a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TaiChiWithMelissa">Subscribe</a> to make sure you don't miss any posts. Subscribing will deliver new posts into your email inbox. <a href="https://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=TaiChiWithMelissa" target="_blank">Click here to go to the Feedburner signup page</a>.</i><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03341077005964035053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585667659654852400.post-73906895309444745332020-12-11T22:30:00.000-05:002020-12-11T22:30:13.087-05:00December 2020 Holiday Schedule Hi Everyone!<div><br /></div><div>I trust your truly bizarro year is about to be capped off, like mine, with a Christmas with a Difference. I'm planning to take it easy this year, stay close to home, and have a truly cosy holiday season. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Tai Chi and Qigong Classes</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>All online Tai Chi and Qigong classes will run as usual throughout December, with the following exceptions:</div><div><br /></div><div>There will be NO classes on Saturday, December 26, 2020, or Monday, December 28, 2020.</div><div><br /></div><div>Classes will run on Wednesday, December 30th, 2020 but in anticipation of highly variable attendance, and to make up for the two Qigong classes that will be cancelled on the 26th and the 28th, I'm changing up the schedule for this one day. </div><div><br /></div><div>Classes on <b>Wednesday, December 30th</b> will be as follows:</div><div><br /></div><div>1-2 pm Qigong</div><div>2-3 pm Tai Chi All Levels (I promise this will be easy for beginners and challenging for intermediate and continuing folks)</div><div>3-4 pm Lok Hup, Sword, and sundry advanced review</div><div><br /></div><div>I won't be teaching new content so if you can't attend on the 30th, don't worry! I reckon some of you might like to get a workout in.</div><div><br /></div><div>The regular class schedule will resume on January 2nd, 2021. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Meditation and Chakra Discussion Sessions</b></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Sunday, December 13, 2020, 3 pm </b></div><div>We'll continue our discussion of Anodea Judith's <i>Eastern Body, Western Mind</i>, with the chapter on the Solar Plexus chakra. There is no charge for these sessions. It is a casual discussion of a very challenging book.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Sunday, December 20, 2020, 2-4 pm</b></div><div><b>Winter Solstice Guided Meditation</b></div><div>This beautiful moment in the year is among the most peaceful and powerful from an energetic perspective, although we often fill our time with busy-ness and extra socialising. I believe this year offers a unique opportunity to slow down, check in with ourselves, and practice self-care. This session will include a fun and gentle guided meditation to help you align with the true purpose of the season: to embrace the spirit of restfulness and rejuvenation. The cost is $20.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Sunday, January 3, 2020, 2-4 pm</b></div><div><b>Heart Chakra Guided Meditation</b></div><div>The chakra series continues in the new year with this, the turning point of the chakra system. In the heart, the earthly energies of the lower chakras meet the spiritual superhighway of the upper chakras. Learn how to mingle these two forces with love as we explore the heart through discussion and guided meditation. Fee: $20.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://taichionlocke.blogspot.com/2020/11/new-guided-meditation-series-beginning.html">The complete Chakra Meditation Series schedule is here</a>. The discussion of the corresponding chapter from <i>Eastern Body, Western Mind</i> occurs the week after each guided meditation.</div><div><br /></div><div>All meetings take place via Zoom. For more information or to join, contact Melissa at smithmk2@gmail.com or (905) 521-0043.</div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03341077005964035053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585667659654852400.post-38616799844078974732020-11-18T19:17:00.004-05:002020-11-18T19:17:52.425-05:00Guided Meditation Session this Sunday, November 22, 2020, 2-4pm <p>This guided meditation session will focus on the sacral chakra, the feeling centre of the body. This chakra is the seat of the emotions, and the conduit through which we experience and appreciate the sweetness of life, as well as its dynamism. When it's aligned, we move freely no matter what comes our way.</p><p>I hope you'll join us for an exploration of this chakra, and a guided meditation designed to clear, realign, and engage its energies.</p><p>We'll meet on Zoom from 2-4pm. The fee is $20. If you haven't joined one of these sessions previously, but would like to, contact me to register at (905) 521-0043 or smithmk2@gmail.com.</p><p><br /></p>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03341077005964035053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585667659654852400.post-73508790497150750322020-11-07T23:51:00.003-05:002020-11-07T23:51:50.277-05:00New Guided Meditation Series beginning Sunday, November 8, 2020<p>With apologies for the last-minute invitation, I'm writing to let you all know that I'll be running a new guided meditation series this fall and winter. Although the sessions will be interlinked, each one will contain standalone lessons related to that day's topic. I always find that people manage to make it to the sessions that are most appropriate for them. Again, you do <i>not</i> have to attend every session! Please come to any that you both wish to attend and are able to attend.</p><p>The focus of the series will be the chakra system, with an emphasis on the psychological dimension of each chakra. We'll talk about the ways in which the skills and abilities supported by each of these energy centres can become blocked or muted due to life experience and habitual ways of thinking, we'll learn about ways to heal energetically, as well as practical exercises and approaches to shifting old patterns, and we'll do a guided meditation to encourage healing and enhance our relationship to each chakra.</p><p>The schedule will be as follows:</p><p>Sunday, November 8, 2020, 2-4pm: Root Chakra</p><p>Sunday, November 22, 2020, 2-4pm: Sacral Chakra</p><p>Sunday, December 6, 2020, 2-4pm: Solar Plexus Chakra</p><p>***Sunday, December 20, 2020, 2-4pm: We'll pause the Chakra program to do a session dedicated to the Winter Solstice.***</p><p>Sunday, January 3, 2021, 2-4pm: Heart Chakra</p><p>Sunday, January 17, 2021, 2-4pm: Throat Chakra</p><p>Sunday, January 31, 2021, 2-4pm: Third Eye Chakra</p><p>***No Meditation on February 14 so you can spend Valentine's Day with the person of your affections and / or practicing self-care***</p><p>Sunday, February 21, 2021, 2-4pm: Crown Chakra</p><p>This course is appropriate for all levels. Participation costs $20 per session. Meetings will take place via Zoom. </p><p>Please let me know if you have any questions, or if you'd like to join the next session: smithmk2@gmail.com or (905) 521-0043.</p>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03341077005964035053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585667659654852400.post-74736208812890731962020-10-08T23:32:00.003-04:002020-10-08T23:33:05.344-04:00Thanksgiving weekend schedule, 2020<p>Hi everyone!</p><p>I hope you're all doing well and looking forward to whatever this coming holiday weekend holds for you and yours. </p><p><b>There will be NO CLASSES on MONDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2020.</b> All other classes will run as usual in October, including Saturday classes this weekend. </p><p>If you can't make it on Saturday, I hope you have a wonderful weekend. Anything I teach on Saturday will be repeated at a later date, so you won't miss anything vital. </p>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03341077005964035053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585667659654852400.post-90811875343070043952020-10-01T13:25:00.001-04:002020-10-01T13:25:46.798-04:00Classes Begin Saturday, October 3rd, 2020<p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6AjV3k6_xcZYx_zzvHPSf5sdiwgDzPnhth0-6o5oIjtCFqyBi8El6b6djBopW0P5l9PBM67DCnYvwYZnla0en8DUlNHoeHC-Z-iLj_kFsxMpQSEKf5EqSRbR7Te8sMentj2j2fQR_Xw-g/s2048/Cottage+September+2020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6AjV3k6_xcZYx_zzvHPSf5sdiwgDzPnhth0-6o5oIjtCFqyBi8El6b6djBopW0P5l9PBM67DCnYvwYZnla0en8DUlNHoeHC-Z-iLj_kFsxMpQSEKf5EqSRbR7Te8sMentj2j2fQR_Xw-g/w400-h300/Cottage+September+2020.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm writing with a quick reminder that classes resume this Saturday at noon! I'm eagerly looking forward to seeing you all again, sharing some insights and new practices I worked with while I was away, and helping you learn and improve your art.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We'll meet at the same Zoom link we were using before. If you've misplaced it, or if you'd like to join for the first time and you need instructions, please get in touch at smithmk2@gmail.com or (905) 521-0043.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><b><i>ONLINE SCHEDULE:</i></b><br /><br /><b>Monday</b><br />Qigong 1pm-2pm<br />Intermediate Tai Chi 2-3pm<br />Continuing (Sword and sometimes Sabre and Hsing-I*) 3-3:30<br />Lok Hup Ba Fa: 3:30-4pm<br /><br /><b>Wednesday</b><br />Beginner's Tai Chi 1-2pm<br />Intermediate Tai Chi 2-3pm<br />Continuing (Sword and sometimes Sabre and Hsing-I) 3-3:30<br />Lok Hup Ba Fa: 3:30-4pm<br /><br /><p></p><div><b>Saturday</b><br />Qigong Noon-1pm<br />Beginner's Tai Chi 1-2pm</div><div>Continuing (Tai Chi, Sword and sometimes Sabre and Hsing-I, Lok Hup review) 2-3:30 </div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03341077005964035053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585667659654852400.post-35970452798813334772020-09-13T19:10:00.002-04:002020-09-13T19:10:55.309-04:00Tai Chi Newsletter, Fall 2020<p>Dear Friends,</p><p>I'm writing to you from the depth of my hiatus during a truly glorious September. I hope you're having a wonderful month and taking advantage of the cooler temperatures to enjoy some time outdoors. The pandemic continues, but so will Tai Chi and Qigong class, in our safe online format. I very much hope you'll join us in October!</p><p>If you have any questions about any of the following information, or if you'd like to join, please contact me (Melissa Smith) at smithmk2@gmail.com or (905) 521-0043. Once you let me know you'd like to join and I have an email address for you, I'll send you the instructions for signing on to class, and you'll be all set. If you've already been to online classes, I'll see you in the same Zoom room we were using before.</p><p><b>Important Upcoming Dates</b></p><p><b>Tai Chi and Qigong classes start again on Saturday, October 3rd, 2020</b>. The schedule will be the same as it was before I took my break. <a href="http://taichionlocke.blogspot.com/p/class-schedule-and-fees.html" target="_blank">You can review the class schedule here</a>. I'll be leading all of the classes while we're working online. I'm very much looking forward to class!</p><p><b>The New Beginner's Tai Chi cycle also starts on Saturday, October 3rd, 2020</b>. For this fall, and possibly only for this fall, I'll be accepting students from anywhere in the world. The occasion of the pandemic means we're not limited to one physical location anymore. (I do recommend finding a local-to-you instructor when it is safe to start training again, and if you are local to Hamilton, Ontario, I would love it if you decided to come out and practice in person once all this is over.) </p><p>Because of the online format, we will be taking our beginner's lessons more slowly than usual. If you've always wanted to comb through the set a tiny bit at a time, this is your year! <a href="http://taichionlocke.blogspot.com/p/tai-chi-for-beginners.html" target="_blank">You can read more about learning Tai Chi online as a new beginner here</a>.</p><p>Tai Chi and Qigong fees will remain the same: $40 / month for unlimited classes; $20 / month for students, people on ODSP or other forms of social support, or in situations of financial need.</p><p><b>If you are brand new to me and you want to come try classes out, just ask! I'm offering a free week of classes to anyone who hasn't trained with me before. Once you try class, if you decide you'd like to stick with it, your first month will be $30. ($15 for people paying the lower rate.)</b></p><p>There's much more to look forward to at class: new content for Qigong practitioners, polishing the set for Intermediate Tai Chi folks, and lots of challenging technique for Continuing / Advanced students. For those exploring other internal martial arts, we'll keep polishing sword, and Lok Hup Ba Fa sessions will continue from where we left off in the summer (at Nine Circulations After the Emergence of the Golden Pill, a move name of which I will never tire!). </p><p><b>Other Classes</b></p><p><b>Guided Meditation sessions will resume this fall, every other week.</b> I thoroughly enjoyed running these sessions throughout the summer, and I thought they were very productive. <b>My plan is to run these sessions on alternate Sunday afternoons from 2-4 pm, beginning on Sunday, October 25th.</b> The topic for the first session will be <i>Setting Spiritual Goals</i>. Please let me know if you'd like to participate. Guided meditation sessions are $20 each.</p><p><b>Private and semi-private outdoor sessions, weather permitting, will be available from October 3rd forward,</b> as well as individual online sessions for those seeking to polish their forms or looking for guidance. <b>I'll continue to offer Reiki and Shamballa distance healing.</b> In-person healings won't be available until the pandemic resolves. Private and semi-private sessions are $60 / hour. Reiki and Shamballa sessions are $30 for healing alone, or $60 for a consult plus healing.</p><p><b>A Final Note</b></p><p>I've had several inquiries about whether in-person classes will start again at the Regent Centre anytime soon. The answer is no: all regular classes will be online only. There is a learning curve involved in attending online classes, but that's a small inconvenience when set against preserving our safety and peace of mind. Unfortunately it just isn't safe to exercise indoors in a group setting yet: aerosol transmission of the virus and the ever-changing nature of community spread means I can't guarantee everyone's safety. It's impossible for me to reconcile this level of risk with helping you build your health and wellbeing. When the time comes to return to in-person classes, I will announce it here. <a href="http://taichionlocke.blogspot.com/p/faq.html" target="_blank">In order to address some concerns about online classes, I've set up a new section on the FAQ page.</a> If you have any questions that aren't addressed there, please let me know!</p>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03341077005964035053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585667659654852400.post-90339393865304290042020-07-22T11:14:00.000-04:002020-07-22T11:14:32.918-04:00Diaphragm and Abdominal Muscle Synergy, or, Why Belly Breathing MattersEarlier this week at Qigong class I shared some information about work I've been doing around correcting diaphragmatic breathing and the digestive system. It reminded me of how important breathwork is, and the unique way we can incorporate the breath into Tai Chi and Qigong practice. I did a bit of an introduction to this topic at class, and some of you requested the research I've been doing, so here you go!<div><br /></div><div>If you're not familiar, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thoracic_diaphragm" target="_blank">the diaphragm</a> is a thin sheet of muscle, shaped like a dome, that separates the lungs and heart from the organs of digestion. It is responsible for breathing: as it contracts, the dome flattens and draws air into the lungs. At the same time, if everything is working well, the abdominal muscles and the ribcage expand to give room to the air entering the body, while at the same time, the pelvic floor lowers. As the diaphragm relaxes, it goes back to its dome-like shape, the abdominal muscles contract back into place and exhalation occurs. People (and animals who have diaphragms) breathe fully into their bellies when they're relaxed and not stressed or in pain. Because people are often stressed (i.e, in some kind of psychological pain state), we often lose the ability to belly breathe, or our ability to take a deep belly breath becomes diminished.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diaphragmatic_breathing" target="_blank">You can read more about diaphragmatic breathing here.</a></div><div><br /></div><div>If you've asked about breathing in class before, you've probably heard my standard answer to the question of how to breathe during practice: just do it. Ensuring that you aren't holding the breath is very important, since many of us do that subconsciously while concentrating. There is another level to breathing during Tai Chi and Qigong practice: relaxing the breath so that it flows evenly and deeply (a fully belly breath / complete diaphragmatic breathing). Even though Tai Chi and Qigong can be vigorous exercise at times, and the heart rate will increase as you do some of the more challenging moves, the breath still tends to be long and slow, or should be. If you find yourself panting or your breathing becoming erratic or frantic, it's time to relax more deeply and work on deepening the breath, while asking if you're taking a complete breath. </div><div><br /></div><div>I was always taught that it's important not to tie a pattern of breathing to Tai Chi and Qigong movements. Breathing will change and shift as you deepen your relationship with energy and with the practice, and so you shouldn't train yourself to coordinate the breath with each movement in a particular way. Doing so inhibits spontaneity.</div><div><br /></div><div>I stand by that answer, but the fact is that many of us (myself included, from time to time) need to return to an evaluation of the breath and ask: is it truly relaxed? Is it deep enough? Is it flowing freely? And, most importantly, is the breathing mechanism doing what it's supposed to do? Most people breathe too shallowly, or clench while breathing (see above re: chronic stress).</div><div><br /></div><div>The current state of research into breathing and its connection to good body mechanics and internal health supports the vital importance of good breathing. Erin Chapman and colleagues have argued that breathing is so important to correct movement that a breathing assessment should go hand in hand with treatment of musculoskeletal pain in active people. (You can read more about these assessments and the different types of breathing dysfunction here, in the<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5046973/"> <i>International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy</i></a>.)</div><div><br /></div><div>Disordered breathing also has implications for a wide array of seemingly unconnected issues. <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6153095/" target="_blank">This article by Bruno Bordoni and Bruno Morabito in <i>Cureus </i>discusses the links between diaphragmatic dysfunction and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)</a>. In the course of their discussion they link dysfunction of the diaphragm to a stunning array of physical issues, including (but not limited to): swelling or bloating of the abdomen, pelvic pain, lower back pain, TMJ (a dysfunction of the jaw), chronic headaches, GERD (acid reflux), anxiety, depression, increase in both pain and the perception of pain, and inflammation. That's a ton! (They link all of these issues to IBS—it is quite fascinating and horrifying reading. For those of you who were at class when I mentioned this topic, this is the article that started my deep dive into reading about breathing, after I had already begun to work with my own breathing as a new approach for a couple of issues I'm personally working on.)</div><div><br /></div><div>My takeaway from all this is to reaffirm how vital it is for us to reset our relationship with good breathing mechanics from time to time. Fortunately retraining is accessible and something we can do from the comfort of our homes. (If you've got severe symptoms, you could consider consulting a doctor and ask about the possibility of biofeedback, which has proven quite effective in retraining the breath.) </div><div><br /></div><div>I recommend working with the breath as a practice on its own, so that the diaphragm learns to move freely, and in coordination with the other body systems, and then trying to fold your new breathing habits into your practice slowly over time. For many of us, reminding the body of how to breathe well and completely will feel so good, it will become second nature (or become second nature again) while we do complex tasks, including Tai Chi and Qigong. Deep breathing / belly breathing / diaphragmatic breathing is a great practice to do hand in hand with the postural realignment work we've been doing in class recently, especially in Qigong. Releasing old and restricted breathing patterns will really help support the new postural and movement habits we're all constantly trying to develop!</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Some notes:</b></div><div>A little goes a long way when you are first working with all this. Try doing some relaxed breathing where you just pay attention to the breath, and then 1-3 deep or belly breaths once a day. Work your way up to more. </div><div><br /></div><div>Don't force anything. If you've been breathing more shallowly, you will be strengthening the diaphragm and the other muscles involved with breathing, as well as stretching them, but that doesn't mean you should force breath to deepen. Relax and allow the breath to move freely: belly breathing is a product of a relaxed body. Deepen your breathing over time, not all at once. </div><div><br /></div><div>The concept of timing that we talk about in class—coordinating movement so everything works all together, and no body part is left behind—also applies here. If you haven't been breathing fully, then you'll probably hesitate to expand the belly when inhaling, and on exhalation, the contraction of the abdomen will probably lag behind as you release your breath. Try allowing the belly to expand (while relaxing it!) a little bit sooner than you think you should. Likewise, let the belly fall or contract "ahead" of the breath as you let it go and exhale. For me personally, the benefits I'm experiencing so far from working in a deeper way with my breath have largely come from completing the inward movement of the belly with exhalation, so I've been making sure to play with letting it contract more than it usually does. </div><div><br /></div><div>Good luck! Don't overdo, don't strain, and enjoy folding this practice into your routine. It really doesn't take long, and it's deeply relaxing and refreshing.</div><div><br /></div><div>Resources:</div><div><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Ua9bOsZTYg">A short video on how to perform basic diaphragmatic / belly breathing</a> (3 minutes)</div><div><a href="https://www.uofmhealth.org/conditions-treatments/digestive-and-liver-health/diaphragmatic-breathing-gi-patients">A slightly longer video on how to perform diaphragmatic / belly breathing, with some information about GI health and deep breathing from the University of Michigan</a> (4 minutes)</div><div><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8uMiz1Zx1r0">A good discussion by pelvic health expert The Flower Empowered on the relationship between belly breathing and the pelvic floor</a> (6 1/2 minutes)</div><div><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izmn-pz1qAc" target="_blank">More advanced: an explanation, also by The Flower Empowered, of how to do hypopressive exercises which will help retrain and feel the muscles involved in exhalation, if you're having trouble feeling your exhalation fully</a> (7 1/2 minutes) </div><div><br /></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03341077005964035053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585667659654852400.post-70284401733798766402020-07-15T22:51:00.000-04:002020-07-15T22:51:11.644-04:00Class Schedule for July, August, and Class Break, September 2020Hello everyone,<div><br /></div><div>As many of you know, I take an annual break from teaching in order to rest, reflect on any changes that need to take place with classes, and focus on my own training. This break usually occurs in September, and has sometimes extended into the first part of October.</div><div><br /></div><div>Due to (positive) changes in my personal life, this break is going to start a little earlier than normal, and I'll be sneaking away for a couple of days in July.</div><div><br /></div><div>So:</div><div><br /></div><div><b>All classes will run as usual in July, except for Monday, July 27th and Wednesday, July 29th. There will be no classes on those two days.</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>All classes will run as usual in August, but the last day of class will be Saturday, August 22nd. For the last week and a bit of August, there won't be any classes. There will be no classes in September 2020.</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>The monthly fee for August will be $30 instead of $40. </b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Classes will resume on October 3rd, 2020. (This is the first Saturday in October. The monthly fee of $40 will resume at that point.)</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>There will be a lot to look forward to in October, including a new Tai Chi Beginner's cycle and the continuation of Lok Hup Ba Fa training, as well as new depths to our study of Qigong. </div><div><br /></div><div>Things might change between now and October, but my current plan is that all classes will continue to be offered online until it's reasonably safe for us to gather and practice indoors. <i>This includes reasonable safety for all our members</i>. Depending on how things develop, I may be offering some in-person teaching at the Regent Centre in the fall or winter on the same limited basis I've been offering training this summer, but I don't currently have concrete plans to do this.</div><div><br /></div><div>I very much appreciate hearing any opinions from you on how you would like things to proceed, given our limitations and what's comfortable for you. Many of you have offered me feedback already, and it's been very helpful. My primary aim in all of this is to continue to offer lessons in the safest way possible.</div><div><br /></div><div>I hope to see you at a class sometime soon! And I'm looking forward to a time when we can train together in person again. </div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03341077005964035053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585667659654852400.post-25056839575728919542020-06-27T00:38:00.000-04:002020-06-27T00:38:32.709-04:00July 2020Hi everyone! A couple of quick notes on class:<div><br /></div><div>Classes will run as they have been in July 2020, online on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays. You can view <a href="http://taichionlocke.blogspot.com/p/class-schedule-and-fees.html" target="_blank">the complete schedule here</a>. If you haven't accessed online classes yet, but would like to, please pop me a line at smithmk2@gmail.com or call (905) 521-0043.</div><div><br /></div><div>The next guided meditation session runs on Sunday, July 5 (not the nonexistent date I originally listed, Saturday, July 5). For more information on guided meditation, <a href="http://taichionlocke.blogspot.com/2020/06/guided-meditation-sessions-for-summer.html" target="_blank">read the post here</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you're a continuing student and you haven't contacted me lately or have chosen not to attend online classes, I would like to touch base with you. Please let me know if you're available. Thanks!</div><div><br /></div><div>A less quick note on some content we discussed the other day:</div><div><br /></div><div>During a recent qigong class we were discussing the TCM clock associated with the organ systems of the body. We've talked a lot about the cycle of the five elements in qigong, but each of these elements also maps onto each day, creating a circadian rhythm.</div><div><br /></div><div>This is very handy for understanding any symptoms you may have that repeat at the same time each day. (Why do I always get sleepy at 2pm? Why do I always wake up at 3 in the morning?) Lily Choi, a TCM practitioner in New York state, has a wonderful article about the organ clock, including tips and tricks for strategically supporting each organ at its ideal time, and a good image of the clock for your reference: <a href="http://lilychoinaturalhealing.com/news/2016/8/4/tcm-time-clock" target="_blank">TCM Organ Qi Cycle: Our Body Clock</a>. Go check it out!</div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03341077005964035053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1585667659654852400.post-44360730152519743972020-06-16T18:53:00.001-04:002020-06-23T16:12:34.950-04:00Guided Meditation Sessions for Summer 2020<div>Hello everyone,</div><div><br /></div><div>Guided meditation sessions will continue throughout the summer, on the full and new moons each month. These are mini-workshops, lasting two hours each, and include a check-in to see how everyone's doing, a discussion of the energies we'll be working with, a guided meditation, and post-meditation discussion. (Don't worry if that sounds like a lot! We take a break in the middle.) </div><div><br /></div><div>Guided meditation is a wonderful way to receive a fresh infusion of new positive energies. At a time when much of our input is distressing or negative, it's great to be in a position to receive something helpful. The discussions we have around the meditation are a wonderful source of insight into working with energy and receiving guidance. We learn from each other as we work together.</div><div><br /></div><div>The next four sessions will continue the theme we started on Friday, June 5, as we began to explore the five Taoist virtues or positive traits, and by way of doing so, the five elements, and five aspects of spiritual energy, as outlined in traditional Chinese medicine. We began on the Strawberry Full Moon with metal element / lungs / the Po or "animal soul," which is responsible for reacting to situations as they arise. </div><div><br /></div><div>Don't worry if you missed the first one, or if you know you can't make all of the remaining meditations: each of these sessions stands alone, and is an in-depth exploration of a beneficial energy. As one of my mentors always says, you end up coming to the sessions that offer what you need! That may be all of them, or it may be that certain meditations resonate with you. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you're brand new, you're welcome to attend. If you've been to my classes or these meditations before, you're welcome to attend. Guided meditation sessions are $20 per session. </div><div><br /></div><div>Here's the schedule for the rest of the summer:</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Sunday, June 21, 2020 New Moon</b></div><div><b>6-8(ish) pm</b></div><div><b>Water</b></div><div><br /></div><div>There's a ton happening on this date! It's the first full day of summer, astrologically speaking—the solstice takes place on June 20th at 5:43 pm. In traditional calendars, the solstice marks midsummer, the time when the days are longest. On the 21st there will also be a special type of solar eclipse. When aligned with the sun, the moon will cover 99.4% of its surface, creating a ring of fire effect. In other words, it should look really cool. It won't be visible from North America, but keep an eye out for photos from parts of Africa, India, and China. </div><div><br /></div><div>For this session, we'll be working with the water element. Water governs the kidney / bladder systems. In Chinese medicine the kidneys store Essence, what Ted Kaptchuk calls the "deep, 'soft,' 'juicy' potential in living beings." They're also responsible for the will: the decisions and commitments we make, as well as the understanding that on some level we're connected to destiny. This meditation will help balance the will and access inner wisdom. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Sunday, July 5, 2020 Full Moon</b></div><div><b>6-8(ish) pm</b></div><div><b>Wood </b></div><div><br /></div><div>This meditation falls on the full <a href="https://www.almanac.com/content/full-moon-july#" target="_blank">Buck moon, also known as the Thunder moon</a>, named for the time of year when bucks' horns pick up speed in their growth and development, and the time when thunderstorms are most likely. This year the July moon rises on Saturday evening, and reaches peak illumination or fullness after midnight. There will be a penumbral eclipse on this day—the moon passes through the outer edge of the earth's shadow, making it appear darker between 11 pm and 2 am.</div><div><br /></div><div>All of these eclipses enhance any energy work we might want to do. On this evening we'll work with the wood element, which governs the liver / gallbladder. Liver is responsible for the smooth flow of qi in the body. At its best, the liver creates an even disposition. It's connected to the non-corporeal soul or Hun, and is responsible for kindness, benevolence, and the ability to recognise the humanity in others. We'll work with this aspect of the soul to help establish an open, flexible and firm sense of our own boundaries. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Monday, July 20, 2020 New Moon</b></div><div><b>6-8 (ish) pm</b></div><div><b>Fire</b></div><div><br /></div><div>This is a less action-packed New Moon than the previous month! But we'll be in a fabulous element with fire. This meditation will focus on the heart, which is the organ that governs the connection between a person's spirit or shen and their daily actions. With this meditation, we'll work on developing appropriate and timely actions and reactions, ensuring that our heart energies are strong and supple enough to allow the big picture of Spirit to guide our choices.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Monday, August 3, 2020 Full Moon</b></div><div><b>6-8 (ish) pm</b></div><div><b>Earth</b></div><div><br /></div><div>This final meditation of the summer takes place on the night of the <a href="https://www.almanac.com/content/full-moon-july#" target="_blank">full Sturgeon moon</a>, the time when sturgeon are most readily caught. (That Old Farmer's Almanac link has a ton of other names for this moon, including "Blueberry Moon," if you prefer something less fishy!) This moon takes place two days after the traditional holiday of Lammas or Lughnasadh, which celebrated the first wheat harvest—it's a very significant time of year for celebrating the ripe fullness of the season in the Northern hemisphere, and a great time to complete our series with the earth element!</div><div><br /></div><div>Earth governs the spleen, which is responsible for extracting and distributing Qi. In Chinese medicine, it's considered the primary organ of digestion. On a psychological level, the spleen rules our ability to see potentials, meaning, if it's in balance, we can consider possibilities, weigh our options, and make clear-headed decisions. In this meditation, we'll explore the concept of having enough, and help ourselves to meet the world with clarity and decisiveness. </div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03341077005964035053noreply@blogger.com0