The holidays are a time more than any other during the year that challenge our emotional Tai Chi. Excitement and anticipation is present along with feeling hurried, pressured, and often times depressed; in fact researchers have noted that coronary events peak during the winter holiday season.
One of the most understated principles of Tai Chi practice is to smile, which has been shown to create a parasympathetic shift in the bodymind effectively lowering blood pressure and stress related hormones. Easier said then done. We don’t always feel like smiling and so often get caught up in the continuing complexities of our serious lives.
For my personal story on teaching myself to turn that frown upside down, check out the video and give the gift of a smile to everyone you meet this Christmas, it might just save your life.
In health and gratitude.
Be Well,
Brian
