Episode 09: Dao House
They say it’s the journey, not the destination that counts… but after 10 days on the road and my mind thoroughly blown by the immensity of Utah, it felt good to SETTLE! I have visited the Dao House many times, but this journey gave me a new perspective on the landscape, the accommodations and the vibration of the space. The Dao House sits at 9,000ft snuggly at the bottom of Twin Sisters, across from Long’s Peak, Mt. Meeker and Estes Cone. I enjoyed waking up to a beautiful view, cool breezes and dancing swallows. Elk, black bear and even a moose visited while I was there! I would do my early morning practice on the lower level patio or on the deck off the main Lodge. During the day, my kids and I helped the lodge staff with cleaning and housekeeping duties, as they were short-staffed coming out of the pandemic. After running my own business for 12 years and juggling the ups-and-downs of the pandemic, I appreciated the straightforward nature of the work. At times, I felt I was scrubbing my own soul of all the built-up residue from the past year’s chaos. It was fulfilling, despite a few VERY long days. I hold new respect for the staff of a hotel/lodge! When I finished my responsibilities, I would explore the mountain trails, drive to Lily Lake a mile down the road or go into Estes Park and walk along the river, watching swallows and humming birds skate across the water. In the evening, I would sneak into the “Long’s Peak” event hall at the Dao House and practice my forms.
In the past, I had always come for private instruction or intensive workshops with Master Chen. Unfortunately, Master Chen recently moved to California, so I only saw him during a brief visit. We had a nice dinner together and caught up on a personal level. It was nice to reconnect with my master after so many years! This journey was not about receiving instruction; rather seizing the opportunity to cultivate my personal practice, no matter where I am. On my Journey to Dao House, I discovered the power of a few minutes of qi gong or meditation in an informal setting. I have come to appreciate these small moments of stillness and encourage everyone to seize the opportunity when appropriate. Wherever you are on your travels, find 5 minutes to connect, to be still and soak in the moment. That is what it means to Travel the Dao!
Stretches to loosen the waist, back, shoulders and wrists. Video taken at the Dao House in Estes Park, CO.
Nei Gong or 'Internal Work' is designed to restore balance in the mind and body. These movements can be a supplement to your tai chi practice to enhance qi flow and open the 8 extraordinary meridians. The last move is “Free-style Ball Turning,” so don’t try to copy, just follow your qi!
The Dao House sits in the back drop with Estes Cone above
Wu Dang 28 Tai Chi form performed at the Dao House in Estes Park, CO. Long’s Peak and Mt. Meeker are the peaks to the left with Estes Cone on the far right.
