IAAP Newsletter:The Unified Field
The Tide of Attunement
by Andrew Shier
Life is characterized by motion and health and is a natural by-product of the vibrant pulsation of the life current. When we are "in the flow" there is nothing quite like it! Clarity, sensitivity, synchronicity and purposeful direction often mark this state of being. Also our energy feels balanced and a certain invincibility characterizes our atmosphere. Sounds so great, who would ever want things to be otherwise? Well, there is the ebb part of the cycle to consider. Inherent in all motion is the pulsation of ebb and flow. For instance, there is a rest between every heartbeat. So often, it is in this ebb part of the cycle that our sense of clarity and purpose are challenged. We may not "see" as clearly and our energy may not be as vibrant as before. How shall we navigate these waters so that we don't lose perspective and momentum?
Unfortunately in our North American culture, we are prone to attitudes and measures that tend to kick start the ebb part of the cycle. Attitudes such as "more is better" can compel us to unnatural levels of action and productivity. This makes it difficult to recognize the ebb phase of the creative process and, therefore, the ease and relaxation that are aspects of it are not engaged. Instead of relaxing when it is time to do so, we "keep on truckin."
In my Attunement work with others, I have come to see stress in a simple light. Stress occurs when a person enters into the flow phase of the creative cycle without having adequately honored the phase of relaxation and leisure. Our reservoir of energy and stamina is replenished when we are "in ebb." If we overlook this phase, entry into the flow is accompanied by a capacity that is half full, if that. Often, it is at this point that we push ourselves even harder as voices in our heads drive for success, productivity, and self-esteem. Eventually, we are worn down and Life may give us a big ebb called illness. What does it take to change what has so often become a vicious cycle rather than the natural cycle?
The tide of Attunement is another way of saying the natural pulsations of Life. Attunement is a precise spiritual and healing art that re-establishes this rhythm. When this is so, health returns because one is at one with or in tune with the rhythms of the Creator that are behind everything! A place of peace and tranquility abounds and we find our stride, replete with a sense of joy and purpose. Could it really be so simple? Is not the character of God and life simplicity at its best?
Andrew Shier teaching T'ai Chi
