As the sun climbs high in the sky, casting its golden rays upon the earth, I find myself enveloped in the radiant energy of summer. In the ancient wisdom of tai chi and qigong, summer is associated with the fire element, a time of love, joy, and the warmth of human connection. In these challenging times, when the world feels uncertain and divided, embracing the summer fire energy becomes more important than ever. It is a time to rekindle the fire within myself, to express happiness, move freely, and fully manifest my true being. Please join me on my journey as I explore the transformative power of summer fire energy through my practice of tai chi and qigong.
Summer is a season of abundance when nature bursts forth in full bloom, painting the world with vibrant colors and intoxicating scents. Similarly, within myself, the summer fire energy ignites a sense of joy and connection that brings me fully alive. For me, it is a time to laugh together, share moments of warmth and camaraderie, and feel equal and loved in the company of others.
In my own practice of tai chi and qigong, I have found that the movements and principles of this beautiful art enhance my appreciation of the summer fire energy. As I flow through the tai chi form, I sense a deep pleasure and vitality coursing through my energy channels (meridians), sinews, and blood vessels. As I practice qigong, the movements restore my energy and help me cultivate a calm, grounded state as a natural way of being. Each tai chi and qigong movement becomes a celebration of life, a display of energy and connection with the world around me.
But summer fire energy is not just about external expressions of joy and connection—it is also about igniting the fire within ourselves. It is a time to tap into our inner reservoirs of strength and passion, to allow our true being to shine brightly in the world. What brings out our laughter? What moves us to dance with abandon? These are the questions we must all ask ourselves as we seek to embody the essence of summer fire energy.
For me, practicing tai chi and qigong in the summertime is a powerful way to reconnect with my inner fire. With each breath, each movement, I feel myself rooting down, rooting up, opening and expanding, reaching towards the highest manifestation of my true self. Tai chi and qigong teach us to flow with the natural rhythms of life, to embrace change and transformation, and let our inner light shine forth with radiant intensity.
Like the flickering flames of a fire reaching towards the heavens, summer fire energy urges me to ascend to higher realms of consciousness and being. It calls me to transcend my limitations, to break free from my shackles of fear and doubt, and to embrace the boundless potential that lies within me.
As we practice tai chi and qigong, we learn to harness the power of fire energy, channeling its transformative force into every aspect of our lives. We become more attuned to the subtle rhythms of nature, more open to the flow of energy within and around us, and more alive to the infinite possibilities that exist in every moment.
In the midst of life’s challenges and uncertainties, let us not forget the transformative power of summer fire energy. Let us connect with one another in the spirit of happiness and love. Let us rekindle the fire within ourselves, allowing our true being to shine forth with radiant brilliance. And let us ascend to the highest realms of consciousness and being, embracing the boundless potential that lies within us all, and experiencing moments of unity with something greater than ourselves. As we practice tai chi and qigong, let us embody the essence of summer fire energy, igniting the flame of joy and connection in our hearts and in the world around us.
You can learn more about tai chi and qigong by exploring the diverse offerings of the Tai Chi Foundation (TCF). TCF provides a free seasonal tuning for the summer fire energy. Click here to learn more. TCF also 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, as well as 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 and qigong journey. For those seeking a more hands-on experience, check out the regular course offerings of TCF’s affiliated local schools.
TCF is a not-for-profit educational organization that promotes, funds, and teaches programs that enable people to learn tai chi chuan and embody its principles.
TCF’s mission is to improve health, well-being, and awareness through the study, practice, and teaching of tai chi and qigong by an increasing number of people worldwide. Sign up for our newsletter for updates on upcoming classes and events.
There are over 200 TCF-affiliated instructors teaching tai chi classes in 30 cities around the world. Find a class, become a member, and support TCF in making the world a healthier and more mindful place today.
By Oliver Herzfeld
© Tai Chi Foundation 2024
Photography: Bob Clark on Pexels
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