People often ask me, what is meditation?

We all have a vague idea. There are endless books, articles and classes on the subject. However, I would like to share my perspective: the Daoist perspective.

Here in Wudang, meditation holds great significance. Whether sitting or standing, it is an essential part of our practice. But it extends beyond these forms.

Meditation is not just a practice, it’s a means of doing. A way of living.

Firstly, meditation need not always be about stillness. When you practice Tai Chi Quan, it becomes a meditative experience.

Beyond this though, whether you're walking, cooking, or waiting for the bus, if you can maintain a calm state of mind, focus on your breath and enjoy what you're doing, that too is meditation.

This idea aligns with the Daoist concept of "tianren heyi," the unity between man and nature. In its highest form, meditation permeates every aspect of our existence and keeps us connected to the natural universe we were borne out of.

Remember meditation isn’t only reserved for sitting in the m orning. It’s a way of life: the enjoyment of the present moment.

Action:

Can you start to live meditatively? Find a moment in your everyday that you can approach as meditation:

• Take long, slow, deep breaths and focus your attention on them
• Explore your sensations: both within your body and coming from the world around you
• Keep returning your mind to the present, your breathing and your sesnsations

Happy explorations,

Master Gu

I’d been interested in tai chi for some time, so when the pandemic hit I was determined to it up more seriously.

Having followed George's videos on YouTube for quite a while, I admired the quality of his filmmaking and absolutlely loved Master Gu’s charisma. When I discovered that he and Master Gu were launching the online academy I knew it’d be great and couldn’t wait to join.

Now I have this perfect combination of content and quality. I like the way the lessons are shot, the sound is perfect and the system is very easy to access. Whether it's Qi Gong, Tai Chi, philosophy or meditation, it’s all there, 24/7.

But Master Gu is of course the main reason I joined. His delivery is incredible, his command of English is beautiful. His knowledge and sincerity just permeates everything he says and does. I could listen and learn with him all day long!