The FitMind Podcast: Mental Fitness, Neuroscience & Psychology #101: Movement as Meditation - George Thompson
Apr 16, 2025
George Thompson, a Tai Chi teacher, Taoist practitioner, and filmmaker, shares his transformative journey of healing through mindful movement. He discusses how Tai Chi aided his recovery from knee pain and emphasizes breath mastery for calming the nervous system. Delving into Taoist philosophy, George explores concepts like emptiness and interconnectedness, illustrating how facing challenges fosters personal growth. He also touches on his documentary, 'The Subtle Art of Losing Yourself,' highlighting the importance of service and integrity in life's journey.
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Embodiment Reveals Self-Organizing Wisdom
- Coming into the body via breath and awareness connects you to a self-organizing energetic being.
- Wisdom must be experienced from present-moment embodied awareness, not only read about.
From Deliveroo To Wudang Mountains
- George left the UK impulsively and arrived at Wudang expecting Kung Fu but found a Taoist/Tai Chi school instead.
- He met Master Gu, the only English-speaking master, who generously taught him Tai Chi, meditation and Taoist philosophy.
Injuries Led To Strengthening
- George began Tai Chi with many injuries (wrists, ankles, knees) despite Tai Chi's gentle reputation.
- Daily training revealed weak supporting muscles; strengthening in applied ranges healed his knee pain.
