Bridging Ancient Wisdom and Modern Conflict: A Reflection on The Israel-Hamas Clash
Oct 10, 2023Introduction:
In recent weeks, the world has watched with bated breath as violence flared between Israel and Hamas, igniting a firestorm of political, social, and humanitarian concerns. The images of destruction and the cries of the afflicted echo through the corridors of global consciousness, urging individuals and communities to seek a semblance of understanding amidst the chaos. As the smoke of battle mingles with the tears of the bereaved, a quest for deeper comprehension and pathways to healing unveils itself. Amidst this quest, the ancient wisdom of Chinese metaphysics and the nurturing practice of Qigong beckon with a promise of insight and solace. This blog endeavors to traverse the bridge between ancient oriental wisdom and the modern-day conundrum of conflict, exploring how the cyclical lenses of Feng Shui and the I Ching, coupled with the healing essence of Qigong, can offer a sanctuary of understanding and a beacon of hope in the turbulent waters of global discord.
- Period 1 (1864-1883) – Wood:
- Growth, Expansion:
- Industrial Revolution continues, with expansion of railroads, telegraph systems, and burgeoning industrial technologies.
- Growth, Expansion:
- Period 2 (1884-1903) – Wood:
- Continued Growth, Nurturing:
- Continued industrial growth. The period also saw the scramble for Africa, a reflection of expansionist tendencies.
- Continued Growth, Nurturing:
- Period 3 (1904-1923) – Fire:
- Transformation, Energy:
- World War I (1914-1918), Russian Revolution (1917), leading to significant global transformations.
- Transformation, Energy:
- Period 4 (1924-1943) – Fire:
- Continued Transformation, Creativity:
- The Great Depression (1929), the rise of totalitarian regimes, and the onset of World War II (1939).
- Continued Transformation, Creativity:
- Period 5 (1944-1963) – Earth:
- Stability, Balance:
- Post-World War II reconstruction, establishment of the United Nations (1945), the beginning of the Cold War era promoting a precarious balance of power.
- Stability, Balance:
- Period 6 (1964-1983) – Earth:
- Continued Stability, Nurturing:
- Continued Cold War, Space Race, the beginning of détente indicating a nurturing of peaceful relations.
- Continued Stability, Nurturing:
- Period 7 (1984-2003) – Metal:
- Contraction, Reflection:
- End of the Cold War (1991), the rise of the internet leading to a reflection on global connectivity.
- Contraction, Reflection:
- Period 8 (2004-2023) – Metal:
- Continued Contraction, Discipline:
- Global financial crisis (2008), a period of economic austerity and re-evaluation of financial systems.
- Continued Contraction, Discipline:
- Period 9 (2024-2043) – Fire:
- Renewal, Significant Change:
- Predicted to be a time of technological advancements, a resurgence of women’s influence, and a shift towards purpose-driven endeavors based on the attributes of the Fire element and the Li Trigram.
- Renewal, Significant Change:
I Ching: Ancient Insights into Modern Turmoil
The I Ching, or the Book of Changes, stands as a towering beacon of oriental wisdom, casting the light of its ancient hexagrams onto the murky waters of human experience. As conflict flares on the global stage, the I Ching’s symbolic language whispers the ancient lore of cyclical change and balance. Hexagrams like Conflict (Hexagram 6), The Army (Hexagram 7), and Opposition (Hexagram 38) reflect the multifaceted nature of the clash, offering a prism through which to view the unfolding drama.
In the aftermath of war, the scars of loss and fear imprint upon the hearts of the afflicted. Qigong, with its nurturing embrace, offers a haven of healing. As individuals embark on the journey of Qigong, they delve into a realm of inner stillness, where the turbulent waves of external chaos recede into the horizon of calm serenity. The practice beckons a community of healing, where each breath of peace ripples through the collective consciousness, weaving a fabric of communal resilience.
The tendrils of ancient Chinese wisdom extend into the modern conundrum, offering a lens through which to view the cyclical dance of conflict and peace. The juxtaposition of the enduring principles of Feng Shui and the I Ching against the transient flames of global discord invites a profound reflection. As individuals and communities, we are beckoned to delve deeper, to seek the undercurrents that propel the cycles of peace and conflict, and to strive for a harmonious rhythm in tune with the ancient cosmic dance.
Free Qigong Session for War-Affected Individuals
Harmony Amidst Chaos: A Qigong Journey from Trauma to Tranquility
I am honored to announce a free Qigong session designed specifically for individuals who have been affected by the ongoing conflict. This session is intended to provide a safe and nurturing space where participants can embark on a journey of self-healing. The practices will focus on releasing the trauma stored within the body and mind, and cultivating a sense of peace, balance, and resilience.
Underpinning Theory of the Session
The session will be rooted in the time-tested wisdom of Chinese Medicine and the Five Element theory. The recent conflicts have ignited a fire of destruction, and according to Chinese Medicine, an excess of Fire energy can lead to a state of agitation, restlessness, and emotional upheaval. By applying the principles of the Five Element theory, this Qigong session aims to restore a sense of balance among the elements within each participant.
- Water Element: Nourishing the Water element to calm the Fire and promote a sense of fluidity and ease.
- Wood Element: Encouraging the smooth flow of Qi to alleviate feelings of stagnation and frustration.
- Fire Element: Mindfully engaging with the Fire element to cool and calm its excess energy.
- Earth Element: Cultivating a sense of grounding and nurturing support to promote stability and community.
- Metal Element: Facilitating a process of letting go, to release the pain of the past and welcome new, fresh energy.
Expected Outcomes
Participants can expect to experience a gentle release of trauma through the flowing movements and meditative practices of Qigong. By engaging with the Five Elements, individuals will have the opportunity to restore a sense of balance and harmony within themselves, promoting a profound sense of healing.
The session is open to all, regardless of experience with Qigong, race, religion, or nationality. It is a humble offering in the face of great suffering, with the hope that through collective healing practices, we can contribute to a greater sense of peace and understanding in the world.
