Body - Mind Health

By Master Erica Linthorst

There was an excellent recent posting on chakras leading us to understand more about the activity centers that “produce life force energy” in the body.

Other Eastern studies discuss meridians / meridian channels through which energy, or ki flows. When inhaling, ki enters the body through acupressure points (called kyong-hyol in Korean) and moves through the meridians to vital organs of the body.

In a healthy state one’s circulation is optimal, the person dynamic and lively. Symptoms of health include sweet saliva in the mouth, warm hands and feet, cool and refreshed head, warm abdomen filled with energy, regular bowel movements. This is referred to as the “water up, fire down” state where perception is clear and the senses opened. Typically, one feels positive, relaxed and both creativity and imagination are enhanced.

In the “water down, fire up” condition a person may feel disconnected, static, lifeless; experience dry mouth or bitter taste. One might have cold hands and feet, experience heat and pain in the head and the abdomen will lack warmth and energy. The individual may be constipated and have digestive problems. Finally, one feels tired and uncomfortable.

So, how do we help bring ourselves to a healthy state? First, it is important to acknowledge and recognize the body-mind connection. For many of us, in our dojangs, we often hear about this and may even have some practices or exercises that relate to this connection. For example, sometimes a class may begin and finish with simple relaxation, breathing practice, and/or meditation. There are many different styles and functions of these actions – including gaining focus, losing stress, increasing circulation by oxygenating the blood.

Initially, there are a number of simple things one may do on one’s own each day
to stimulate the body in preparation for the day ahead.

- Stretch before getting out of bed. Waken the sleeping muscles gently and
carefully.

- Try to take time for a simple meditation practice, preferably in a quiet place.
During this period, focus only on breathing. There is a variety of postures and
the key here is to find one that is comfortable for you.

- Stand with shoulders relaxed, tailbone curled slightly inward, knees soft, legs
shoulder-width apart, feet parallel, weight evenly balanced on soles to revive
the body, tap along the meridians.

- Gentle body bouncing provides a general loosening of all muscles and joints
and offers the extra benefit of stimulating brain activity and release of en-
dorphins - the natural, feel-good chemical - the is always available to each of
us provided we initiate activities such as those mentioned above.

When you invest time in this body-mind communication, you will gain a healthy dividend.

P.S. Note that often what starts the day off right, also helps release stress
and clear the body and mind for a good night rest.