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The Amazing Terracotta Warriors

July 15, 2016 By Arlene Faulk

Terracotta Warriors

In grade school and high school there was no mention of China in my history classes. We learned about the pharaohs and pyramids of Egypt and the antiquity of Rome. But Asia did not come up. None of us thought to question that.

In modern times China is a major player on the world stage, as the world has become more intertwined in the financial, consumer products, political and sports arenas around the globe. Travel to China has become more accessible in recent years, so Americans have the opportunity to learn more about its culture and history. Those of us who have studied Chinese medicine and/or are involved with Tai Chi, have gained a some knowledge about Chinese philosophy, healing through acupuncture and herbs and balancing Qi (life force energy).

Today we have frequent cultural exchanges, with dance, instrumental and orchestral performance, visual art and with ongoing student exchanges in university degree programs. And sometimes with important exhibitions that need to be shared with the world. That very thing is happening now, in Chicago.

Terracotta Warriors

I recently viewed “China’s First Emperor and his Terracotta Warriors” at the Field Museum for the third time. Amazing story about China’s first emperor building thousands of terracotta soldiers to protect him in the afterlife. Discovered in the 1970’s by a farmer digging for a well. Thousands have been excavated, plus chariots and horses and birds and swans. Each soldier is 5’11” – 6′ tall. All faces are different. When viewing them close, it looks like they are looking directly at you.

So much more to the story. The scale of this effort and the artistry is overwhelming. I visited the actual site in Xian, China five years ago and felt like I was witnessing one of the major “wonders” of the world. I felt that way again in Chicago.

Thousands of no-name Chinese people, toiled day after day to design and construct these warriors, horses, and other animals. Some died in the process and were buried in the emperor’s pits. Fascinating that these people, who were nobodies, created artistry that would last into perpetuity. We can honor and marvel at their talent these many centuries later.

terra cotta warriors

If you are anywhere close, go see this exhibit. Even if you are not close, think about making a special effort in the next six months to come to Chicago to see it. You will be amazed.

Filed Under: Energy, Mindfulness, Paying Attention, Tai Chi, Traveling in China Tagged With: Chinese culture, Chinese history, first Chinese emperor

A Chinese Lantern Festival

March 28, 2015 By Arlene Faulk

red lantern canopy
lantern festival

A CHINESE LANTERN FESTIVAL – what a sight to behold! (“This canopy of 15,000 lights transition us from cacophony to tranquility”)

A must-see special exhibit at the Tampa, Florida zoo. My sister and I were amazed, with eyes glued to the extraordinary displays of thousands of lanterns, elephants, flowers, Koi fish and temples so exquisitely designed and displayed.

Forty Chinese artists conceptualized, designed and erected this magnificent exhibit, which is hard to describe in words. Such bright colors illuminated in the paths, waterways and bridges of the zoo. As the sun set and darkness prevailed, we experienced a blaze of red, gold, green and purple.

So serene and calm. Visitors whispered. Ooos and aaaahs heard around every corner.So much history and culture. The calmness reminded me of Tai Chi, being in the moment and feeling balance.

Although I cannot do it justice, I want to share some of the “Zoominations” experience with you. And, if you are in Tampa by May 31st, do not miss it.!

panda lantern
panda lanterns

Filed Under: Energy, Light, Paying Attention, Tai Chi Classes, YinYang Tagged With: artistry, Chinese culture, Chinese history, lantern festival, light in the darkness, serenity

Arlene Faulk

Arlene Faulk

After a years-long struggle to understand and conceal debilitating symptoms while I ascended the corporate ladder, I found comfort and healing through Tai Chi and Chinese Medicine.

My memoir, Walking on Pins and Needles, is the story about the power to control our lives and move in the direction of possibility. Read more...

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“A LIFE-AFFIRMING STORY”

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My book Walking on Pins and Needles: A Memoir of Chronic Resilience in the Face of Multiple Sclerosis is available in paperback & e-book.

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FROM TAI CHI STUDENTS

Tai Chi makes me feel calm, yet energized. Because of my practice, the small irritants of life affect me less.

Tai Chi student

I had back surgery, was in pain and had little range of motion. Tai Chi practice at Heartwood has helped me increase flexibility, my range of motion and my overall stamina.

Tai Chi student

Arlene teaches the Tai Chi form in such a gentle and connected way that many movements now feel utterly natural and healing.

Tai Chi student

I've even shared some of the exercises with my bike club to help reduce injuries. They really work!

Tai Chi student

I've always been a klutz and have regularly lost my balance and fallen when walking outside. Arlene taught me how to stand and walk properly through Tai Chi. I really can't believe it: I haven't fallen in four years since I've been taking Tai Chi with Arlene!

Tai Chi student

I love Arlene's Tai Chi classes. She helps us understand not only what we're doing, but also why we're doing it. That really helps me take what I learn in class and apply it to my daily life.

Tai Chi student

I'm really inspired by what Tai Chi has done for Arlene. She is a great teacher, who is calm and very patient. She has really helped me not to be so hard on myself.

Tai Chi student

I play golf and had a lesson after school, on the same day we had Tai Chi class. My coach commented, 'Your posture is amazing and all of the balance issues that we have been fighting for so long seem to have just taken a vacation.' I mentioned to him that I thought it was due to Tai Chi.

Tai Chi student

Tai Chi relaxes your entire body and promotes peace and proper breathing. The more I manage to breathe properly while doing any activity in my life, I generally tend to do a lot better at it. I benefited from Tai Chi because it managed to help me with my breathing skills even more.

Tai Chi student

Tai Chi really gives my body strength to put up with the pains of my breast cancer and back problems. Tai Chi is 'sneaky'. You don't think it's helping, but eventually you realize it's helping you.

Tai Chi student

For me, Tai Chi brings comfort and quiet amidst all the chaos and change.

Becky, Tai Chi student

In just a few months, the practice has become perhaps the most nurturing element in my life during COVID times, when sustaining a commitment to anything else has been challenging.

Barb, Tai Chi student

The community Tai Chi has provided has been a gift. With so much we can now do whenever we wish --- with an app, YouTube video, or streaming service --- meeting weekly (via zoom) in real time, live, to practice Tai Chi creates true community.

David, Tai Chi student

I really enjoy our time together and I've found Tai Chi a great way to "keep moving," not only during this pandemic but also as a regular practice with a wonderful integration of mind, body and spirit.

Martha, Tai Chi student

Tuning into the class and seeing familiar faces of the other students brings a nice sense of community and connection during this time of separation and isolation.

Julia, Tai Chi student

I love the walking practice because it helps me slow down and focus only on the moment.

Tai Chi student

Tai Chi has made me aware of how I’m standing and where my weight is. My balance is improving.

Tai Chi student

I hear Arlene saying to listen to my body and only do what I can do. That helps me relax.

Tai Chi student

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