Monday, February 16, 2009

Maturity

One of the benefits of getting older is the understanding of maturity. My thoughts are – maturity is the ability to control anger and not overreact, the patience and ability to pass on short term pleasure in favor of long term gain, living in peace with what we cannot change and having the courage to change what we can.

Tai chi thought of the week:
Next time you need a snack, how about blueberries or almonds. Maybe add some yogurt and enjoy the taste and health benefits.


Stay centered, enjoy the day, and be careful out there.
Sifu Mike

Sunday, February 8, 2009

What is Reiki?

As a Reiki Master I am often asked to explain Reiki. Pronounced ray-key, reiki is a Japanese word for universal life force energy. Just like Chi in tai chi, or prana in yoga, reiki can and is used to for healing, deep relaxation, and inner peace. Reiki can bring balance and harmony to the body and mind as it boasts the immune systems and enhances the body’s ability to heal itself. Reiki can never do harm, and can be used to enhance all other healing modalities. Reiki is done with the client resting on a table or chair. The session takes about an hour, and the client should give himself time to relax and not rush afterwards (so as to enjoy the afterglow). I can perform reiki at my house or yours, and I am certified to attune students who want to become a Reiki Practitioner or Reiki Master. Reiki can benefit you in many ways.

Tai chi thought of the week:
Let’s remember that the purpose of a discussion is progress, not who wins. Don’t you agree?


Stay centered, enjoy the day, and be careful out there.
Sifu Mike

Sunday, January 18, 2009

Birthdays

When we have birthdays it sometimes creates mixed emotions. In my case it’s always a positive, for it focuses lots of attention on me and reminds me how lucky I am... how blessed I am to have reached 64 (last week!) and feel like 40 (until I look in the mirror!). Then I get cards and phone calls from friends and family. My 5-year-old grandson Carter was born on the same date, and he helped his mom make my favorite dessert. My thanks to all who helped make my birthday a special event in my life. They say you can judge a man by his friends – I hope that is true. Again, I think you all (or is that y’all), it is appreciated to the fullest.

Tai chi thought of the week:
Before I sleep I spend a moment thinking about all the nice things that I will be doing tomorrow. In the morning before I get out of bed I again think about all the nice things I have to look forward to today. It is a great way to start the day. Try it!


Stay centered, enjoy the day, and be careful out there.
Sifu Mike

Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Do Your Best!

When you try something new, like tai chi or yoga or any new exercise, try not to put lots of pressure or expectations on yourself. Just do your best! It's simple if you do your best, then whatever happens happens. And that's OK because we can only do our best, whatever that is for each of us individually. Don't you agree? Keep this in mind when you are thinking about the kids or grandkids. If they are trying and doing their best, then whatever the grade on the test is ok. Sometimes the kid with the B is working harder than the kid with the A. Learning how to work and study and practice is more valuble than an A (in my humble opinion, that is).

Tai chi thought of the week:
In our pursuit of happiness we should realize that each and every day has some happy moments in it. When we are not in the moment we will most likely miss that happy moment. That would be a shame.


Stay centered, enjoy the day, and be careful out there.
Sifu Mike