The universe is a vast net of energy rays

Fifty-Seven

The universe is a vast net of energy rays.
The primary ray is that which emanates from the
     Subtle Origin, and it is entirely positive, creative,
     and constructive.
Each being, however, converts the energy of this
     primary ray into its own ray, and these lower rays
     can be either positive or negative, constructive or
     destructive.

An individual who is not yet fully evolved can be
     adversely affected by negative energy rays in the net
     around him.
For example, the combined influence of several
     negative rays might cause an undeveloped person to
     believe that his life is being controlled by an
     invisible, oppressive ruler.
Such a misconception can be a significant barrier to
     enlightenment.

To attain full evolution and the status of an integral
     being, you must be aware of this intricate net and
     its influences upon you.
By integrating the positive, harmonious energy rays
     with the positive elements of your own being, and
     eliminating the subtle negative influences, you can
     enhance all aspects of your life.

In order to eliminate the negative influences, simply
     ignore them.
To integrate the positive influences, consciously
     reconnect yourself with the primary energy ray of
     the Subtle Origin by adopting the practices of the
     Integral Way.
Then all the rays in the net around you will merge
     back into harmonious oneness.

Recommended Summer Reading: The Healing Promise of Qi

The Healing Promise of Qi: Creating Extraordinary Wellness Through Qigong and Tai Chi
by Roger Jahnke, O.M.D

Here is an excerpt.

"Ancient Qi masters developed a formula for health and longevity based on the Qi:

Inner Harmony = Qi Flow = Health and Longevity

This formula is the foundation of all Chinese medicine, acupuncture, and herbal medicine. Concepts in Western science such as coherence, resonance, and integrated body/mind function are parallel to the concept of harmony in China. In the West science points to numerous forms of flow including blood, lymph, brain chemical distribution, nerve transmission and the movements of ions.
When they added the capacity to purposefully cultivate inner harmony through personal practices the ancients created this formula:

Practice + Intention = Inner Harmony = Qi Flow = Health and Longevity 

Exploring Qi and Qigong is like opening a marvelous Chinese puzzle box--boxes within boxes, secrets within secrets. Think of yourself as having just reached a gateway where, only a moment ago, no gate was visible. According Chinese tradition, if you open this gate and enter the realm of Qigong--with sincerity--a multitude of practical benefits will be yours."

Kung Fu Leadership Team Enhances Their Chi

Here's what chi looks like after whitewater rafting!  The Kung Fu Leadership Team paddled The Gorge on the South Fork American River on Friday the 13th of July. (Yes, Friday the 13th! We aren't superstitious.)

What a team!  What good captains--Shih Fu Catherine (on far right) and Shana Maziarz (second from left).  And Shih Fu Eileen solo paddled an inflatable kayak. She now has a river story to tell about swimming Lost Hat Rapids and Satan's Cesspool.

"I'd paddle with the Kung Fu Team anytime!" says Shih Fu Catherine.

How to Stay Cool

"The summer is associated with the Fire element in the Chinese system. The organs ruled by this element are the heart and small intestine as well as the functions of circulation and heating in the body.

Diet and exercise are very important to keeping the Fire element strong. Proper nutrition is vital to maintaining a healthy heart and for providing fuel and heat for the body.  So our diet could be changed by eliminating refined foods, tea, coffee, alcohol and tobacco, and by cutting down on animal fats...

Summer is the time to recharge those internal batteries with solar power. Keep the Fire balanced with Water inside and out, and keep the body loose, getting good exercise. It is a time for growth and coming forth."
--Elson M Haas, MD "Staying Healthy with the Seasons"

Practice Independently on July 4th

There will be no classes on Wednesday, July 4th.
Classes resume on Thursday, July 5th.

Tai Chi increases brain size, benefits cognition

Scientists from the University of South Florida and Fudan University in Shanghai found increases in brain volume and improvements on tests of memory and thinking in Chinese seniors who practiced Tai Chi three times a week, reports an article published today (June 19, 2012) in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease.


This was the first trial to show that Tai Chi plus stimulating discussion led to increases in brain volume and improvements on psychological tests of memory and thinking.

Previous trials have shown increases due to more aerobic types of exercise. The group that did not participate in the interventions showed brain shrinkage over the same time period, consistent with what generally has been observed for persons in their 60s and 70s.

"The ability to reverse this trend with physical exercise and increased mental activity implies that it may be possible to delay the onset of dementia in older persons through interventions that have many physical and mental health benefits," said lead author Dr. James Mortimer, professor of epidemiology at the University of South Florida College of Public Health.

http://medicalxpress.com/news/2012-06-tai-chi-brain-size-benefits.html

Where will you take your Tai Chi this summer?

Tai Chi blending with the energy on Waimanalo beach, Oahu. 

David Parry-Jones