Jul 21
Yesterday’s post about my workout regiment got me thinking about my spiritual well-being. Muay Thai is an excellent way to relieve the stress that builds up over the course of a day – in fact, it can be argued that any form of strenuous physical activity can do the job. I would still submit that there is something special about pounding away your frustrations…
But beyond the release of endorphins (which apparently is disputed), I think that there is something deeper at work when I’m in the middle of yet another set of crunches or push-ups. Repeated exercises seem to have a focusing effect on my mind – there’s clarity of thought as I realize my objectives. The more I whip my body into shape, the more I notice how very little disturbs me. Nothing seems to be of great urgency or worry, the only thought in my head is of Now.
In my hyperreality where I’m constantly plugged in, multitasking and on the go, Muay Thai has become my refuge. It’s a place of sanctuary, where I focus body, mind and soul. Much like meditation, these sessions have the added benefit of opening my consciousness. All of sudden I’m aware of the limitless potential that resides in me.
Hindus and Buddhists might call this opening your third eye, a crucial step on the path to enlightenment. While I’m admittedly not actively searching for nirvana, my dedication to a healthier lifestyle has engaged some higher consciousness. Whether physiological or psychological, I feel I’m a little bit closer to spiritual peace.
Isn’t that what we all want? A little bit of peace and harmony?
Jul 21
My friend and former colleague Kirsten asked me to contribute to her fitness blog, so here’s what I wrote:
When encountering martial arts, most people think of karate or taekwondo, where boys and girls proudly sport their white gis and colourful belts. Or they’ll remember their favourite Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan or Jet Li movie (Chuck Norris and Jean Claude Van Damme will also suffice).What they might not realize though is that martial arts are an excellent way to get into great shape and ultimately live a better life.
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Apr 08
It starts in the gut, quickly radiating outwards, down your legs and along your arms at the same time. Creeping up your neck, you hold you breath in anticipation, waiting for the rush. A momentary pause, time stands still, and then like the Norwegian Blue, voom!
Listening to the hockey game on the radio, I’m completely absorbed in a surreal experiment that engages my imagination. Names and described action fill my imaginary rink as the team wins and loses. It’s not quite synaesthesia, but the sounds create a different reality that exists outside of television.
But live, now there’s the rub. The adrenaline takes you higher when the roar of the crowd shakes your very core. The amplifiers thunderous, the mosh pit energetic, the light show fantastic, the body electric. The ringing in your ears echo the experience, keep you coasting just a little bit longer.
Or perhaps you prefer your excitement in a more subdued doses, like an IV drip that sustains a romanticized vision of the perfect relationship, the perfect job, the perfect world. Layer upon layer, we follow the yellow brick road to our deepest desire, constructing the rationale that lets you sleep better at night. This is living, you mutter to yourself.
Live for those moments where you revel in joy. Moments where you’re left awestruck by fantasy, where you can genuinely smile, for the company of good friends. And live for those moments, where like Icarus, you come crashing down. Cause it’ll make the trip back to the top, that much more satisfying.
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