Tai Chi Lessons from My Octopus Teacher

In 2021, the film My Octopus Teacher won awards for Best Documentary Feature from both the U.S. Academy Awards and U.K. BAFTA Awards. It documents a year spent by filmmaker Craig Foster forging a relationship with a wild common octopus in a South African kelp forest. The documentary provides profound insights into the natural world through the lens of a unique human-animal relationship. Tai chi practitioners, in particular, can glean valuable lessons from the film, drawing parallels between the octopus’s movements and the principles of tai chi.

The Central Brain and the Dantian

One of the most fascinating aspects of the octopus is the location of its brain. Unlike many creatures, an octopus has a central brain situated in the middle of its body, and large neural centers in each of its arms, allowing for independent movement. This diffused brain adaptation enables the octopus to perform complex tasks and respond to its environment with extraordinary agility and precision. The octopus’s distributed intelligence can be compared to the dantian in humans, a concept central to tai chi. The dantian, located in the lower abdomen, is considered the body’s center of gravity and the source of internal energy (qi).

Interestingly, scientists consider the enteric nervous system in the human abdominal area to be like a second brain due to its (i) extensive and complex network of neurons that operate independently of the central nervous system, (ii) constant two-way communication with the brain through the vagus nerve, and (iii) role in influencing behavior and emotions. Just as the octopus’s movements are coordinated by a central but distributed neural system, tai chi movements are guided by the dantian, harmonizing the body’s motions and enhancing fluidity and balance.

Swimming on Land

Professor Cheng Man-ching emphasized the importance of performing tai chi as if “swimming on land.” The concept is so fundamental to the practice of tai chi that Professor Cheng devoted an entire chapter to it in his book “Cheng Tzu’s Thirteen Treatises on T’ai Chi Ch’uan” (i.e., Treatise Five – Swimming on Land). This is vividly brought to life in the film as the octopus, with its graceful and fluid movements, embodies the very essence of this principle. Whether it is gliding through the kelp forest, mimicking the sway of seaweed, or wrapping itself in algae to camouflage, the octopus moves with a seamless, flowing grace that tai chi practitioners should seek to cultivate. By observing the octopus, tai chi students can better understand how to move with the natural currents of life, maintaining a state of relaxed alertness and continuity of motion.

Adaptability and Mindfulness

The octopus’s ability to adapt to its environment and the threats it faces is another lesson for tai chi practitioners. The documentary showcases the octopus’s remarkable skills in camouflage, problem-solving, and survival. For instance, when faced with predators like pyjama sharks, the octopus employs various strategies, such as using shells and stones to protect itself. This adaptability mirrors the mindfulness, awareness, and responsiveness required in tai chi, where practitioners must remain conscious of their surroundings and adjust their posture and movements in response to external forces.

Connection with Nature

Foster’s journey in My Octopus Teacher underscores a deep connection with nature, an experience that resonates with the essence of tai chi. His daily immersions in the ocean and evolving relationship with the octopus illustrate the profound impact of consistent practice and attunement to the natural world. Similarly, tai chi practice involves regular engagement with natural elements, whether practicing in a garden, feeling the ground beneath one’s feet, or aligning movements with the rhythm of the breath. This connection fosters a sense of unity and balance, both internally and with the environment.

Learning Through Observation and Patience

The film also highlights the importance of learning through observation and patience. The filmmaker’s dedication to visiting the octopus every day, despite the initial challenges, teaches a crucial lesson about perseverance and attentiveness. In tai chi, progress often comes slowly and requires diligent practice and observation (including self-observation). Each movement, though seemingly simple, holds depth and complexity that can be fully appreciated only through persistent and mindful practice.

My Octopus Teacher offers rich visual metaphors and direct lessons that can enhance the practice of tai chi. By emulating the octopus’s central coordination, fluid movements, adaptability, and connection with nature, tai chi practitioners can deepen their practice of this ancient art. The documentary not only inspires awe and respect for the natural world but also serves as a powerful reminder of the profound lessons that nature can impart to those who are willing to observe and learn.

You can learn more about tai chi by exploring the diverse offerings of the Tai Chi Foundation (TCF). TCF provides live online courses, allowing you to participate in guided sessions from the comfort of your home. These virtual classes offer unique opportunities to connect with experienced instructors, ensuring that you receive personalized guidance and feedback. Additionally, the Tai Chi Foundation offers Teachable on-demand classes, providing a flexible and accessible way to learn at your own pace. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced practitioner, these online resources offer a wealth of knowledge to enrich your tai chi journey. For those seeking a more hands-on experience, check out the regular course offerings of TCF’s affiliated local schools.

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By Oliver Herzfeld

© Tai Chi Foundation 2024