Of all the different forms of meditation, standing is maybe the most accessible and flexible. Not needing appropriate seating means you can perform standing meditation pretty much anywhere! It’s a great way to gently wake your body up in the morning, combined with some stretches. Later on, it’s the perfect break from sitting down at work.

Standing meditation is also a fantastic practical application of a Taoist ideal: to be able to adapt to whatever happens; and to find the tranquility within us, irrespective of our external environment.

Take this rain meditation, for example. Taoists believe every day is beautiful, including the rainy ones. Bad weather doesn’t have to stop you practising outside. In fact, there are even potential benefits that come from meditating in the rain.

The sound of raindrops provide an immersive reminder of nature’s presence - even in the most urban environment, and they can also be a soothing background to meditation. Furthermore, rain is a key figure in the circulation of our Qi: coalescing up the back before falling down the front, nurturing our elixr field (dantian) like a field of crops.

Actions

• Practice! If it’s rainy where you are, give a spot of rain meditation a go
• Explore Look for other spontaneous, alternative forms of meditation to explore
• Apply Consider the unique value of something frequently considered bad

Happy explorations,

Master Gu

When I lost my job through illness, I decided to start learning tai chi, but it was a struggle finding an authentic local teacher who taught the philosophical and cultural traditions behind Tai Chi.

I started looking online and soon found George. I was inspired by his journey with Master Gu, learning Tai Chi and Taoist living from an authentic Wudang master.

As soon as I discovered the Online Academy I knew it was where I would continue my training.

WTWA Online is thorough: from fundamentals to full Tai Chi forms, all the way to Chinese culture. Despite the breadth of courses you’re given a thorough introduction, so you can learn your first steps and use them straight away.

My cognition has improved. My body feels healthier. I'm enjoying life a lot more than what I used to.

What’s more it’s all up to you: what you study, when, where. They guide you to make your own learning journey, but the amazing community and Master Gu’s livestreams mean that there’s always help and company too.

So join us! You’ll learn a lot, you'll make new friends, and improve your life. I hope to see you soon!