During this time of suspended classes, the Fung Loy Kok Board of Directors encouraged us to use this time to practice stillness and deepen our individual practice wherever we are. Participants across Canada are doing just that, staying strong and discovering so many things. In the spirit of “together apart,” we’ll be sharing these personal stories over the coming days and weeks.

I feel such gratitude for all the encouragement to practice stillness. This has led to finding balance and feelings of stronger connection with everything.

Sing.gaay ’laa. (A Haida greeting which means ‘good day’ or ‘good morning’.)

-Beatie, British Columbia

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Like most of us, I don’t have room in my home for a set. So I’ve been mostly focusing my Taoist Tai Chi® practice  on the foundation exercises. Although a couple of days ago the weather was quite nice so I did two  sets outside. That was a real treat! And a lot of my practice has been atypical. For example, my morning and afternoon walks with my dog have turned into lots of one-legged don-yus and kicks!

It’s funny; not being able to attend class, I’m thinking I had to rely on self-instruction. But I didn’t. How often my instructors’ words would come into my head to guide me.

Our branch has been calling other participants to stay in touch. I’m not really a phone person, but it has been nice to hear their voices. And for the most part, people seem to be doing okay. So that’s comforting.

It was especially nice when the Board decided to try chanting on Zoom. It was nice to hear familiar voices and see familiar faces as I scrolled through the pictures.

No matter what I do –whether it’s the physical practice, talking to participants, or chanting– it all brings a sense of stillness. That’s priceless.

-Scott, New Brunswick

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I have come to realize that the self-discipline required to increase my individual daily practice makes me feel more content, relaxed and happy. What a gift this is!

-Theresa, British Columbia