Living Matrix Model

 

"Every living cell in the body is connected in the living matrix of the connective tissue system.

The tensegrity of this system conducts vibrations, transmitting energy and information to each cell.

Energy, present in many forms in the body, is essential to the body's functioning.

The connective tissue system, composed primarily of collagen molecules and water, has a liguid crystalline molecular structure.

The liquid crystals of the connective tissue system form a continuum that permits rapid intercommunication, much faster than in the nervous system, and allows the body to perform as a coherent whole.

The energies of the body are responsive to consciousness.

Heightened coherence often corresponds to improved physical and mental abilities and better health."

- Rick Barrett.  Taijiquan: Through the Western Gate.  Blue Snake Books, 2006, 265 pages, index, bibliography.  VSCL.  The "Western Gate" is modern science, allopathic medicine, and materialism.  A challenging read with respect to scientific explanations, and showing parallels to taijiquan body-mind experiences and TCM. Quote from page 192.

The book is filled with fascinating explanations and some practical lessons and observations about mind-body practices like Taijiquan.  

Here is an example relevant to Taijiquan practice:

"If my intention is to push something (in the ordinary sense of the word) I automatically create tension in my arms and shoulders.  Try it.  The anticipated resistance of the thing to be pushed caused my body to tighten.  That is how we learn to move from infancy, and it remains the case until a better way comes along. If instead I reach with my fingers, rather than push, I don't encounter my own internal resistance.  Compare these to ways of moving and fell the difference in your body."
- Rick Barrett, p. 193.

There is more softness, more song, if I reach in the final phase of Grasping the Sparrow's Tail, rather than push.  

Point with your index finger when you move your arms.  What happens?
Expressiveness with the hands and fingers in an essential aspect of body-mind movement practices.  

Thinking about our bodies as being and functioning like liquid crystals is an amazing conclusion to reflect upon.  Gives "Go with the Flow" a new dimension.