Silk Reeling · Rooted Alchemy

Silk Reeling

We can use the term silk reeling to help us refer to, and study, the concepts of blending and weaving as we practice. The production of silk is deeply embedded in Chinese culture and society throughout the ages. The term is used in martial arts, tai ji and qi gong and comes from the Chen style of Tai Chi, but has been adopted, and possibly independently developed by numerous styles. Analogy and metaphor are the language of tai ji and qi gong, it creates space for us to build our own understanding in our own way and in our own time.

Some silk reeling concepts we can take into our practice.

-Like reeling raw silk from a cocoon, our movement should be relaxed, focused and unbroken.

-Like creating thread, the harmonization of the joints should move and 'string' together as you move. Each joint is its own cocoon. Move from center, as center.

-Each movement weaves another thread into our experience and creates a stronger connection throughout.

-Movements weave and blend together creating contrast, intersection and separation. This can be related to the idea of 'brocade' as in the "8 Pieces of Brocade"

Fun fact, silk worms create a single thread to make their cocoons which can reach up to almost a mile long!

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