Pampamisayoc Qi Gong

Food for Thought…

Things are rarely as bad as they seem… and they are rarely as good as they seem…

Expectations always lead to disappointment… disappointment will eventually lead to disillusionment…

It is more peaceful and calming to live somewhere in the middle…

It’s a common truth that life often falls between extremes…. When we encounter challenges or setbacks, it can feel as though everything is falling apart…

The reality is usually more nuanced… it is rare for things to be as exciting or as boring as we may at first believe…

During moments of success, we might be tempted to believe that we’ve reached the pinnacle, the top, only to discover that new challenges are just around the corner… This duality (Yin and Yang) highlights an essential aspect of human experience… expectations can distort our perception…

Expectations, while they can provide motivation and a sense of direction, often lead us to set ourselves up for disappointment…When the outcomes of our efforts don’t align with what we envisioned, we may experience disillusionment, which can dampen our spirits and hinder our progress…

It’s essential to approach life with a degree of realism, recognizing that both positive and negative experiences are temporary… By cultivating an attitude of acceptance and respect… we can find balance in the fluctuating nature of our circumstances…

The key lies in maintaining flexibility and resilience…

Instead of clinging tightly to expectations, we can learn to appreciate the journey itself… embracing the lessons learned along the way, regardless of the outcomes… This mindset allows us to navigate life with greater ease, reducing the sting of disappointment and enhancing our appreciation for the good moments…

Acknowledging that things are rarely as bad or as good as they seem helps us foster a healthier perspective, enabling us to engage with life more fully and authentically…

All the Best!

H Perry Curtis, Master at Pampamisayoc Qi Gong

Food for Thought…

Everyone wants to create a life that brings peace and joy within… often we as humans don’t recognize this until later in life…

When we recognize we were searching for peace and joy, we begin to realize that we did not travel our path toward this desire with enough commitment and with enough consistency…

Commitment and consistency are two crucial pillars when it comes to achieving goals and crafting a life aligned with one’s values and aspirations…

Commitment is the dedication to pursuing your objectives, while consistency is the regular practice of taking actions that move you closer to those goals… Together, they create a powerful framework for personal growth and fulfillment…

Commitment provides the motivation and resolve necessary to push through challenges… When you are genuinely committed to a goal, you cultivate a sense of purpose that fuels perseverance, even in the face of obstacles… This unwavering attitude can mean the difference between giving up at the first hurdle or finding creative solutions to overcome difficulties… It creates resilience, allowing you to bounce back after setbacks and maintain your focus on long-term aspirations…

Consistency complements commitment by ensuring that you take actionable steps toward your goals regularly…

It’s not enough to be passionate about a goal; you must also engage in consistent behaviors that lead to progress… This could involve establishing daily routines, setting aside time for skill development, or consistently evaluating your progress… Over time, these small, intentional actions compound, leading to significant advancements and the eventual realization of your dreams…

Consistency builds confidence. Each time you follow through on your commitments, you reinforce your ability to succeed… This self-efficacy fosters a positive feedback loop, where you become increasingly motivated to continue your efforts…

Both commitment and consistency foster a sense of accountability…we must accept accountability for our actions and our results…

When you commit to your goals publicly or within a community, you cultivate a support system that encourages you to stay the course…Sharing your journey with others creates an environment where you are more likely to follow through on your plans, as you feel responsible for not just your own expectations but those of others who support you…

Commitment and consistency are fundamental in achieving meaningful goals and living a life of intention… They empower you to navigate challenges, build confidence, and create a sustainable path toward the life you envision for yourself…

Are you committed to building and crafting you life into something that you truly respect and admire?

Do you achieve pursue the peace and joy this will bring you with consistency?

Can you see the benefit in doing so?

H Perry Curtis, Master at Pampamisayoc Qi Gong

Food for Thought…

Simplicity is one of the core essentials of understanding Daoism…

One of the main essentials within simplicity is determining what your essentials in life may be… and then sticking to your essentials and not be distracted by the excesses that seem to always surround us in modern life… this can be challenging but not impossible…

It all starts with deciding what is essential for you in obtaining a calm and peaceful mind… and thus, life…

So what is the modern idea of essentialism?

Essentialism is a philosophical approach that emphasizes the importance of focusing on what truly matters in life while eliminating distractions and excess…. Sounds a little like Daoism doesn’t it?

This concept promotes the idea of identifying and prioritizing the essential aspects of our existence… our values, goals, and needs…over the non-essential, which often leads to stress and confusion…

By distilling our lives down to these core elements, we can cultivate a more meaningful and fulfilling experience…

This philosophy closely aligns with Daoism… or the natural way of the universe…

Daoism teaches that by recognizing and adhering to the natural flow of life, individuals can achieve a sense of balance and tranquility…

Both essentialism and Daoism encourage us to simplify our lives and focus on what is genuinely significant…

In practice, an essentialist approach reflects Daoist principles by promoting mindfulness and acceptance…

Just as Daoism advocates letting go of rigid expectations and embracing spontaneity, essentialism calls for the intentional elimination of the unnecessary…

By doing so, we create space for deeper engagement with life’s essential elements, fostering a sense of peace and clarity…

Both essentialism and Daoism invite us to reflect on our true nature and purpose, guiding us toward an authentic way of living that honors our intrinsic values and the natural rhythms of existence… By harmonizing these philosophies, we can navigate life with intention and grace... with simplicity, calmness, and peace within…

H Perry Curtis, Master at Pampamisayoc Qi Gong

Food for Thought…

An advanced breathing/ medatitive practice is Embryonic Breathing, known as "Yuanqi" in Taoist practice… This is a foundational technique within Qigong and Taoist meditation that emphasizes deep, relaxed breathing to cultivate vital energy (qi) and promote inner harmony and expanded awareness…

Rooted in ancient Chinese philosophy, this practice is inspired by the natural rhythms of life, particularly the breath patterns of a fetus in the womb, representing a state of pure potential and tranquility…

The essence of Embryonic Breathing lies in its ability to connect practitioners with their innate life force awakening the Third Eye and enhancing the ability to expand the awareness and return to the natural connection that humans today seem to have lost…

Unlike conventional breathing methods that may involve shallow or rapid breaths, Embryonic Breathing encourages slow, gentle, and diaphragmatic inhalations and exhalations. This approach helps calm the mind, relax the body, and foster a deeper connection to one's internal energy…

When sufficient energy has accumulated at the lower Dantien, this energy can be led up the Thrusting Vessel and into the Spiritual Valley… activating the third eye and awaking the spirit… reuniting Mother and son…

Practitioners typically begin by finding a comfortable seated position, allowing the body to relax fully. As they inhale, they visualize drawing in qi from the universe, filling their lower abdomen like a balloon…

Upon exhaling, they release tension and negativity, allowing the breath to flow naturally. Over time, this practice can enhance physical well-being, increase emotional resilience, and deepen spiritual awareness…

In addition to its physical benefits, Embryonic Breathing serves as a meditative tool, promoting mindfulness and presence. By nurturing a state of stillness and receptivity, practitioners can access a profound sense of peace, ultimately facilitating personal growth and transformation…

Regular practice fosters a harmonious balance between body, mind, and spirit, making Embryonic Breathing a vital component of Qigong and Taoist traditions…

Note that this is an advanced practice and should not be attempted by beginners… it is best to be led into the practice by a Master… there are several steps that must be accomplished before moving into the actual Embrioyic Breathing Meditation…

Without this guidance, divergent Qi and illness may result…

If you are serious about your paractice and have an interest in expanding your spiritual awareness, it would be best to begin your training by reading what you can find and then locating a teacher that would be willing to accept you as a student in this practice…

This has been a guarded practice over the centuries…

All the Best!

H Perry Curtis, Master at Pampamisayoc Qi Gong

Food for Thought…

After Qigong practice this morning, I walked into town to share a cup of coffee with my wife… my wife drinks her coffee rather quickly while I tend to sip the coffee and savor each sip…

While savoring my coffee, I noticed the actions of the people in the coffee shop…

I witnessed some form of passive aggression coming from the majority of the people present… turning away when answering, not directly answering a question, showing disrespect in subtle ways, ignoring the other people, etc..,

This made me think about the prevelance of passive aggressive behavior in our society today…

Passive-aggressive behavior is a form of indirect resistance to the demands or expectations of others, often displaying itself through procrastination, evasiveness, stubbornness, or intentional inefficiency…

This type of behavior can be particularly harmful in interpersonal relationships, because it stifles and undermines open communication and creates an atmosphere of confusion and frustration within the aggressor and the receiver…

Individuals exhibiting passive-aggressive behavior often struggle to express their feelings directly…

instead opting for subtle or covert methods of expression of disharmony and non compliance… coming from fear, anger, or resentment…

This usually leads to misunderstandings, as others may find it difficult to interpret the true emotions…. It’s a form of masking or hiding…

For example, someone might agree to a task but then fail to complete it on time, leaving the other party feeling frustrated and unappreciated…

Or they may agree to meet at a set time and then through procrastination, show up late or not at all…

Such actions can damage trust over time, as those on the receiving end may feel manipulated or disrespected…

The causes of passive-aggressive behavior are varied… and take sel-reflection to determine… generally, it stems from feelings of inadequacy, fear of confrontation, or a desire to maintain control without engaging in direct conflict…

These feelings can be rooted in childhood experiences or cultural norms that discourage open expression of negative emotions…

In many cases, individuals may not even recognize their behavior as passive-aggressive… they could view their actions as justified responses to perceived injustices or frustrations… that may not even exist…

Addressing passive-aggressive behaviors requires effort from both parties involved…. The aggressor and the receiver…

The person displaying these behaviors must become aware of their tendencies and work towards expressing their feelings more openly and assertively… the other party should strive to create a safe space for honest dialogue, encouraging them to share their thoughts and emotions without fear of backlash…

Active listening and validation can also foster better understanding and reduce the likelihood of misunderstandings…

While passive-aggressive behavior has become normalized and accepted and might seem like a harmless way to express discontent, it generally leads to greater emotional distance and conflict… it’s creates disharmony…

By promoting open communication and fostering healthy interactions, individuals can break the cycle of passive-aggressiveness, leading to more satisfying and trusting relationships…

The Daoist emphasis on creating harmony in relationships would go a long way toward slowing down the spread of this very harmful way of displaying anger and resentment…

Have you noticed passive aggressiveness in your life?

Have you noticed the disharmony it creates?

Can you see any benefit in bringing honest expression, trust, and harmony into your relationships?

All the best!

H Perry Curtis, Master at Pampamisayoc Qi Gong

Food for Thought…

Where are you in this moment? Do you accept where you are?

Acceptance is a cornerstone of Daoism, representing the first step toward harmony with the natural flow of life…

In many ways, acceptance is about acknowledging the present moment without judgment… recognizing our current emotional and situational realities as they are…

This awareness is vital as it allows us to detach from the constant desire to control or alter outcomes… which often leads to frustration, anxiety and the non acceptance of reality…

So, where are you? Are you where you currently are… or you fighting where you are… are you accepting… or are you resisting?

When we observe our lives without resistance, we create a fertile ground for understanding… Instead of fighting against emotions or situations, acceptance invites us to lean into them, to fully experience our feelings and circumstances…

By doing so, we begin to sense the ebb and flow of energy around us… This intuitive understanding of our personal currents helps us discern what actions align with our deepest values and principles…

Navigating life’s stream becomes less about striving for arbitrary goals and more about harmonizing with who we really are... Just as water flows effortlessly around obstacles, so too can we learn to move gracefully through challenges when we acknowledge and accept where we are…

This isn’t about passivity but rather about embracing proactive mindfulness… it means acting in accordance with our principles and values… while remaining open to the lessons each experience offers…

Could this be an example of WuWei?

Acceptance encourages resilience…

Life is unpredictable and filled with uncertainties, but by accepting our current reality, we empower ourselves to adapt and respond more effectively…

We gain clarity and insight that enables us to make choices aligned with our values, guiding us toward growth and fulfillment…

Ultimately, acceptance fosters a sense of peace…

When we stop resisting reality and instead meet it with openness and curiosity, we cultivate inner calm…

By allowing ourselves to flow with life's natural rhythms, we discover not only our direction but also the joy inherent in simply being…

Embracing acceptance, then, is not just a philosophical concept but a practical tool for navigating the complexities of existence with grace and intention…

Do. You accept where you currently may be? Or do you resist?

Can you see how acceptance may be the path to follow?

All the Best!

H Perry Curtis, Master at Pampamisayoc Qi Gong

QIGONG SCHEDULE IN COTACACHI, starting today Monday October 21st.

Mondays: 9-10am & 5-6pm
Wednesday: 9-10am

No need to book ahead, just show up on time.

For more info: 098 5452054

We practice outside, see location in the link:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/SPcDSZjTjrfPjfoV8
Photo credit to Everyday Health.

Food for Thought…

Overthinking, wrong thinking, anxiety, and depression seem to be extremely common and shared challenges in todays world…

Addressing these issues take time and discipline… but they can be dealt with by bracing simplicity and structure…

In today's fast-paced world, many people struggle with the burdens of overthinking, anxiety, and depression. This cycle usually begins with fear… fear of the unknown, fear of past mistakes, or fear of future possibilities.

These fears can create a self-imposed isolation, making it difficult to engage with the present moment.

Understand that the path out of this debilitating cycle can be established by the deliberate structuring of our daily lives… Simplistic Structure is the key…

By implementing a routine that prioritizes simplicity and structure…we can cultivate a life that encourages mindfulness and presence.

This doesn’t mean eliminating all sources of stress or anxiety, but rather creating specific designated times for engaging in simple tasks that demand our full attention. Whether it's cooking a meal, washing the dishes, taking a walk, or tending to a garden, these activities become anchors in our day, grounding us in the here and now… fully in the moment… leaving no time to travel to the future, anxiety… of living in the past, depression…

The essence of this approach lies in intentionality…. We must set a disciplined intention…

When we immerse ourselves in these moments, we shift our focus away from the spirals of overthinking…

Simple tasks, when approached with mindfulness, gently redirect our thoughts from worries about the past or future to the beauty of the present…

The act of being fully present—really paying attention to the sensations, sights, and sounds of our surroundings—opens the door to relaxation and clarity…

Over time, as we practice this mindfulness, we may find that our anxieties begin to dissipate…

Consistently structuring our lives around these moments of simplicity fosters resilience; we build new neural pathways that favor calmness over chaos…

This practice nurtures a sense of accomplishment and purpose, reinforcing our capacity to handle life's challenges…

The path toward eliminating overthinking, anxiety, and depression is about creating an empowering environment… and environment that encourages joy, creativity, and connection in our lives…

By embracing the power of structure and simplicity, we invite tranquility into our daily existence, freeing ourselves from the confines of fear and allowing growth to flourish…

Do you suffer with overthinking, anxiety, or depression?

Can you see how embracing discipline, simplicity, and structure could help you to escape from these sufferings?

All the Best to you in your life…

H Perry Curtis, Master at Pampamisayoc Qi Gong

Food for Thought…

The post from yesterday (an interpretation of verse 55 of the I Ching) produced several questions about humility…

Many have a blockage toward being humble…

As a way to bring greater awareness to the subject,

Here is a short explanation of humility as understood in Taoism…

At the center is the letting go of ego… we don’t even know what we don’t know… so how can the ego make us think we know everything…

As the Yang to that Yin… we know what we do know… but we don’t too firmly attach to what we do know because we can’t know it all…

Like in all things Taoist, there’s balance and harmony… living in the middle…

Taoism places great emphasis on humility as a fundamental virtue that fosters harmony and balance within oneself and in relation to the world.

In the Taoist perspective, humility is seen not merely as a personal trait but as a way of being that aligns with the natural flow of the universe, or the Tao. This alignment encourages individuals to let go of ego-driven desires and recognize their interconnectedness with all living things.

Humility allows one to embrace simplicity and accept the inherent limits of human understanding. By recognizing that we are part of a greater whole, individuals cultivated a sense of inner peace and contentment, reducing the need for external validation.

The humble person acts with a quiet strength, often choosing to listen more than speak, which promotes understanding and compassion in interactions.

Humility in Taoism leads to a deeper appreciation for the present moment, reflecting the belief that true wisdom comes from observing rather than asserting.

Taoist texts, such as the Tao Te Ching, emphasize that “the highest virtue is like water,” which nourishes all without striving for recognition. This selfless quality of humility fosters an environment where growth and cooperation can flourish, underscoring the idea that greatness often lies in the background, nurturing rather than dominating.

It’s all about balance and harmony… letting go of ego driven desire to always be right… but still being confident… without being arrogant…

Living in the middle…

There is much more to becoming humble that just these few words… but it is really quite simple… in concept… a little more challenging in practice…

But it is possibly…

Hope this helps… those overcontrolling beliefs and conditionings of our past can be challenging to let go…

But that is what growth is about… not as much acquiring new beliefs… but releasing those beliefs that block our paths…

All the best!

H Perry Curtis, Master of Pampamisayoc Qi Gong

Food for Thought…

In everyone’s lives, we go through periods of tremendous power when we seem to do everything right… we are in the groove (an old vital record reference)… or a more common phrase, we are in the flow…

During these times, we can do no wrong… people respect us… people listen to our counsel… when you say, “everything is gonna be alright”, people know that is the truth…

But we have also been through times when the tide turns… and whatever we try, it just doesn’t seem to work out…

This is the nature of life… the ebbs and flows… the expansion and contraction… the ever changing circle of life…

At one moment others are full of trust and confidence… in the next they are full of mistrust, and forward progressive movement seems impossible…

So in these times of mistrust and lack of movement… how do we restore the flow?

By steadfastly clinging to what is true and good… returning to our closely held values… and restore our humility… we reawaken our own… and other peoples receptivity… so growth can take place…

Only by carefully observing these cycles… the ebbing and flowing…the openings and closings of ourselves and others to our influence… can we reach our true potential...

To do this, we must cultivate an attitude of independent watchfulness… we observe ourselves and others from a position above and outside of ourselves… some would say from the position of our higher selves…

In this state of quiet observation we open our hearts to follow the path in the direction that our connection to the Dao or the natural flow of nature and the universe… this, in turn opens our eyes to what is possible and what is not… This clarity enables us to move with strength and grace when the time is right, and in this we achieve abundance…

Always remember, that influence cannot last forever; as the sun rises, so it must set. When receptivity gives way to mistrust and our influence begins to wane, we should not struggle and try to force or to fortify or prolong it…

Humility, Modesty and Detachment require that we accept the turning of the tide. By letting go of the passing moment and entering the next with a correct and balanced attitude, we save ourselves for a more beneficial time… and with this attitude, the flow can be restored in our favor more effortlessly…

H Perry Curtis, Master at Pampamisayoc Qi Gong

An interpretation of verse 55 of the I Ching…

Qigong classes in Cotacachi are starting again! Now with evening & morning classes.

After a short break due to travels we are starting up the classes again. Come and join us next week. Beginners and intermediate are all welcome.

Qigong is also suited for all ages. We work with the body, breath, mind, emotions and spirit - physical limitations are not an hindrance... what's more important is your mind.

If you want to feel good in your body, steady in your mind, calm in your emotions and connected with your spirit (or whichever word you prefer) - Qigong is for you.

Mondays 5-6pm
Wednesdays 9-10am
(Starting October 21st)

No need to book ahead, just show up on time. Classes are outside, put on a raincoat if it's raining :) No classes if the rain is really heavy.

Classes are next to the police station on Rocafuerte. Only a few blocks from Plaza San Francisco. Location on the link.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/C7Ne6ecnDufJ4GWz5

Send me a message for more info.
098 545 2054

Food for Thought…

Being grateful and appreciative and finding joy for the things that we have and experience in life are very important for our overall well being and for the manifestation and creation of the type of life that we desire for ourselves and our family…

The Formal Japanese Tea Ceremony is in many ways a practiced discipline for acquiring the appreciation and gratitude that is essential to a joyful life… and as a solid foundation for future growth and creation…

The Formal Japanese Tea Ceremony, or "chanoyu," is a beautiful embodiment of mindfulness and gratitude, showcasing how ritual can deepen our appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.

Each aspect of the ceremony, from the carefully chosen utensils to the precise movements of the host, emphasizes intention and respect. This practice invites participants to experience the moment fully, fostering a profound sense of presence.

During the ceremony, the act of preparing and serving tea becomes a meditative experience. The host meticulously cleans and arranges the utensils, symbolizing the purification of body and mind.

Guests are encouraged to observe, reflect, and savor each sip, turning an ordinary act into a sacred ritual. Tasting the flavor on one sip… then the warmth on another sip… sensing the smoothness of the cup on another sip… the precise movements of the hands… the scent of the tea… etc. as the cup of tea Is slowly savored throughout the ceremony…

This intentional focus not only cultivates gratitude for the tea itself but also for the connection shared between individuals in that serene space.

This formalized and focused appreciation and gratitude are also practice for experiencing the unfolding of our lives as we “savor” the experiences and lessons of our lives as they slowly unfold before and within us…

The aesthetics of the tea room and the careful selection of seasonal elements—like flowers or ceramic wares—remind us of the beauty in transience. Embracing imperfection and simplicity can lead to a deeper appreciation of life’s fleeting moments.

Just as the aesthetics of the scenery of our life and home become reminders of the life that we desire to experience as our lives progress…

Through this disciplined practice, participants often leave with a renewed sense of joy and a greater understanding of their interconnectedness with others.

The lessons of the tea ceremony extend beyond its duration, encouraging us to carry mindfulness, gratitude, and appreciation into our daily lives…. For the things that we already have… In doing so, we cultivate habits that enrich our overall well-being and strengthen our relationships with family and community.

Do you live life as a ceremony of appreciation and gratitude for the things that you have and experience as your journey unfolds before you?

Can you see the benefit in doing so?

H Perry Curtis, Master at Pampamisayoc Qi Gong

Food for Thought…

When the world around me is irredeemable… I must be a righteous man…

When the world around us feels irredeemable, the call to be a righteous man becomes even more profound.

In times of despair, confusion, or moral ambiguity, choosing righteousness is both a personal and collective act of resistance. It invites us to stand firm in our values and principles, even when the tide seems to be flowing in the opposite direction.

This is a time to stand tall and strong, with the strength if a mountain…

Being a righteous person in a troubled world means embodying integrity, compassion, and justice.

It challenges us to act in alignment with our beliefs, championing the causes we hold dear, whether it’s fighting for social justice, protecting the environment, or advocating for those who cannot speak for themselves. Our actions may seem small in the grand scheme, but they ripple outwards, influencing others and creating a community of like-minded individuals who strive for a better future.

Righteousness is not merely about external actions; it also requires introspection and self-awareness. It compels us to confront our biases, question our assumptions, and be open to growth and learning. Finding strength in vulnerability allows us to connect with others on a deeper level, fostering understanding in times of division.

In a world that often appears irredeemable, being a righteous man is an act of hope.

It affirms our belief in the possibility of change and inspires us to contribute positively to humanity.

Ultimately, it’s about planting seeds of kindness and integrity that can thrive, even amidst adversity, paving the way for a brighter, more compassionate world.

Can you be Righteous when the world around you is falling apart and has lost its moral compass?

Can you be a person of value and integrity when those around you cannot?

Can you see the benefit in doing so?

H Perry Curtis, Master at Pampamisayoc Qi Gong