Morning light rises over the tea fields of Wudang, as I learn how to absorb 陽氣 (Yang energy) from the sun, and try to understand what “effortless movement” and “being like water” mean.

During this 氣功 (Qì Gōng) practice I realize that stillness might be the hardest movement of all.. and that real strength is found in softness. I reflect on my current state of weakness and understand that strong emotions drain vital energy.

Along the way, I meet Yuan Yuan — a fellow practitioner that mirrors my own purpose. She reminds me that simplicity itself is the path, the 道 (Dào). Through our conversation, I begin to see that there are concrete ways to cultivate one’s energy and preserve this precious life force that we all have within, the 氣 (qì).

There is a beautiful notion in Chinese spirituality known as 修行 (xiū xí ...