STRESS FREE LIVING!

How do we move/act without stress?

At the core of stress free living is the understanding that true relaxation or truly being stress free is not simply going limp, or giving up.

In Tai Chi we say "true relaxation" is balancing movement and stillness. Physically this correlates to relaxation not being limp, this principle is the first thing you learn in Tai Chi.

In short to truly relax and be without stress we must have principles in place to balance the situation. In other words these principles form a sort of "skeleton" to our life.

In martial, physical and psychological practices this framework is the cornerstone we use to accomplish skill. Regardless of the particular practice the ultimate goal is balanced action w/ relaxation. Structure is the foundation of this relaxation, a way to live alongside of stress while still accomplishing goals.

In this post we'll dive into some foundations we can all use to accomplish a more stress free and productive life!

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Three foundations of stress free living!

1. Correct timing and strategy
2. Acting with trust
3. Detachment from the outcome

Correct timing and strategy!

In short correct timing is moving when it's the right time to move. My teacher Dr Tony Zayner once described this as "Don't move until you are full to the brim with all that is needed... at that time one can swallow his cup and use the sustenance for the journey ahead" Correct timing in that context is based on one's preparedness and strength of will.

The second part of this foundation is strategy. Without the right strategy it doesn't matter how prepared you are or how strong your will is, therefore, correct timing must be joined with the correct strategy. We find the correct strategy by learning from those who have gone before us.

Master Feeman Ong always said "When you drink a glass of water remember where it came from." This relates to strategizing as much as it does to reverence and acknowledgement. Fill your cup with what has worked for the highly successful few and only after you have practiced/drank it you can streamline and figure what works for you. Having the foundations of past successes and strong proven strategies should give you comfort and strength to trust in your actions, just keep practicing.

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Acting with trust!

Acting with trust builds on correct strategy, in that, it's easier to trust something proven to work by others. Another way to look at it is seek the truth. It is far easier to implement something you trust and know to be real as opposed to something you are unsure of, or that you refuse to have faith in. The other component to this is that ultimately we must trust in ourselves that we can actually accomplish similar results. A great quote to remember in this respect is...
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"If someone else can do it I can too!" and "If I can do it, it's easy." -Jim Rohn

Detachment from the outcome!

Acting in trust should be extended even to the expected achievements from your actions. Many people spend their entire lives striving for something. In striving for our goals many times we accumulate anxiety, pain, insecurities and various internal + external hardships. This comes from worrying about the outcome.

Here's an idea try this...

Focus on doing the best you can today and now, not on whether you can meet your own expectations.

"Don't let likes or dislikes get in and do you harm. Don't treat your spirit like an outsider. Don't wear out your energy, leaning on a tree and moaning, slumping at your desk and dozing."
-Chuang Tzu

To summarize, stress free living is correct action with relaxation as a foundation. Be honest and it will help you relax throughout your actions. Keeping these foundations intact will help relaxation seep into your every action. Therefore acting with relaxation in mind and body can bring the greatest outcome.