Stillness and Flow

Dear Patient,

My job as an acupuncturist is to encourage your body’s energy to flow. Energy that’s stuck, or moving in the wrong direction, is the root of illness and pain.

One good way to encourage flow is by moving with intention—going for a walk, practicing tai chi, dancing, stretching.

But flow is also restored in moments of stillness: listening to the birds while you enjoy a cup of tea on the porch, a few minutes of prayer, a nap in the acupuncturist’s chair. You might notice that you feel different in some way after these moments of stillness—refreshed, renewed. That’s because stillness settles the chaos and invites flow. It creates a place for your energy to go.

Stillness isn’t sitting around doing nothing, it’s an act of profound presence and awareness. It’s an opportunity to take in the seen and unseen magnificence surrounding you, and marvel at the miracle of your own beating heart.

May you find moments of stillness today.

Love and gratitude,

Your Acupuncturist

P.S. This Note was inspired by the lovely piece Stillness by Michal Berman. If you enjoy these Notes, you’ll love her daily blog A Breath of Fresh Air for the Breathless.