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Year of the Tiger  

In the T’ai Chi Form that I was being trained in, and that I have been practicing and teaching for the past 40 years, the Tiger appears three times. Like in a fairytale, three is the magic number. (The Form by Cheng Man-Ch’ing has 37 movements).  First, appears Embrace the Tiger, and Return to the Mountain.  Then further into the Form comes Step back and Ride the Tiger, and close to the end, Bend the Bow and Shoot the Tiger. Other animals appear as well: Sparrow, White Crane, Monkey, and Golden Pheasant. I am not a scholar on these ancient names of the Form. But each movement clearly embodies and teaches us certain applications and qualities. What better teachers than nature, animals, trees….  




The Tiger’s qualities and movements teach us readiness and courage. If we can turn and face the Tiger – or whatever is stalking us – eye to eye, we have a better chance of survival, and thriving. Ready for surprises, we open to listening. Training our sensitivity and focus, gaining confidence, we might then progress to riding the Tiger, using her strength. And when necessary or ready, we must take aim at the Tiger, become the master. This is how I imagine some of the universal qualities of the new year and future. Unpredictable. Uncertain. Shifting. Forcing us to be present to what is, even if still invisible. And I personally am interested in learning and discovering more and deeper qualities of the Art of Riding the Tiger. And perhaps being ready to take aim at the Tiger. 


This creature is roaming in my garden and living room :)


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