Low Center of Gravity
Keeping a low center of gravity is another principle that reminds us to ‘keep our mind where our body is.’ Too much thinking can keep awareness floating above the body in some problem-of-the-day or some problem of some other day. Usually there isn’t even a problem; just mental constructs called problems related to not getting what we wanted. Life flows more smoothly when we focus on ‘the way’ and not on ‘our way’ only.
Maintaining a low center of gravity in tai chi and life reminds us to stay close to the present reality. In chi kung practices, this refers to breathing into our lower abdomen, allowing our diaphragm to move up and down gently massaging our internal organs and exercising our lungs to their full capacity. This isn’t easy but with practice it can get easier. Learn more in The Alchemist’s Tao Te Ching: Transforming Your Lead Into Gold