Mom and her bandThis month my daily Essence Qigong practice sustains me through difficult times as my 88 year old mother (with her band in the photo) lies possibly dying in a hospital bed in my hometown in Central Washington, and my 30 year old daughter and son-in-law face their own challenges in the New York film industry 2,800 miles away. I want to tear myself in half to be in both places under the illusion that I can make everything better. News Flash: Life can’t be fixed, only lived. Gentle note to self: If I tore myself in half, I could still be only half anywhere, and what would be left of me?

I return to Qigong. “Here I am,” find my balance, my energetic center, open my heart, breathe, move, repeat. At the end of my half hour, I act from my center, from my heart, calmly, a whole person, trusting this is right action, performed with love, to the best of my ability. What more can I ask of myself, or of anyone else?

Perhaps like me, you find yourself in a “compassion sandwich,” between generations of loved ones today. I would love to talk with you about ways, like qigong, to care for yourself while you offer your care to others. Please don’t hesitate to call me at 541.390.9652, or email [email protected].