Feelings and Logic
Marcy Tavernier

Several books, articles, and videos that explored feelings and logic recently came my way. They gave me a new way to put my Five Element Qigong practice into words. For that, I'm grateful.

In one, Radical Knowing by Christian de Quincey, the author discusses circumstances that lead us either to feelings and intuition or logic and reason or, more likely, some combination of the two. Ideally, we fully develop both. One interesting observation he makes is how a full development of feelings helps us to live a happy life. However, if we only develop logic without feelings, then our tendency is not much more than making goals to be happy.

With our feelings fully developed we show greater perception of the myriad effects resulting from our actions. We sense better how our thoughts and actions affect us and others. We simply have more information to make better decisions and live healthier lives.

Personally, I think Five Element Qigong practice helps us develop both feelings and logic. Our practice of "forgetting" those things that habitually hold us back brings us greater calm and relaxation. We release tension that obstructs mind and body. We expand our ability to feel -- and experience how good it feels to be free from conflict. As far as logic goes, is there anything more logical than recognizing and following our own nature?