Anticipation

When we anticipate we lose openness.

We expect things to be the same as they were before but they are not. We cannot rely on events unfolding the way we suppose they will because they will not.

Our brain sees patterns and similarities otherwise we would be bombarded with sensory overload and yet, at a deeper level of perception, nothing is ever the same as any previous moment. We cannot see these changes and so our unconscious conclusion is that they do not change then we have a habit to think things do not change.

From a martial point of view and in our daily life this is a dangerous view. If an opponent does something that we do not expect then we will be surprised and may not be able to respond appropriately. Therefore it is better to not expect anything in particular. If our friend behaves in a way that we do not expect then we can be disappointed if we find it difficult to adapt and be flexible.

When practising the form, at the end of each posture move the mind to begin the next movement. Avoid anticipating the next posture until the posture you are practising is complete.

In daily life follow Dr. Chi's guiding principle 'Every way OK.'
Bristol 13.1.09