Bamboo in the Wind

In the practice of Qigong, there is a lovely sequence called "Bamboo in the Wind." Qigong, deeply rooted in Chinese philosophy, is the synchronization and alignment of breath to movement. "Bamboo in the Wind" is the gentle swaying of the body, from side to side. A movement in allowing, rather than doing. The polarity of moving in stillness.

The bamboo with its firm bond to the earth, yet yielding to the winds of challenge from any direction. An admirable quality to possess as a human being on earth.

Strong and flexible. Grounded and light. Breathing in the moment, effortlessly embracing change. The wind as refreshment, tossing old patterns of leaves down to the earth. Opening up spaces for new sprouts of growth. The wind and the bamboo, always in harmony—mutually arising.

Bamboo in the wind, a metaphor for life.


All content and photography ©2014 Lori Brookes. All rights reserved.