Table of Contents

• Reflection of the Week:

  • Five Principles of Extending Ki

  • Plus Life

Reflection of the Week:

In Japanese, the phrase Ki o dasu (氣を出す) means “Ki extends.” This phrase captures an effortless flow of energy. To be “extending Ki” is not an action we need to take; rather, it is the state of allowing our energy to flow unrestricted. When Ki extends naturally, we embody genki (元気) — vitality, health, and robustness. This vitality is not just about physical health; it is a state of openness in both heart and mind. Even when we face illness or hardship, this extension of Ki brings resilience, as we remain open to life rather than closed off by fear or negativity.

Extending Ki teaches us about our interconnectedness. We are not isolated islands; we are deeply interdependent, linked to each other and the world around us. Each thought, each word, each action, each interaction creates ripples, affecting others in ways we may never fully understand. When we extend Ki, we do so with the understanding that our energy, our presence, can have a positive impact. This perspective encourages us to be mindful of the influence we have, creating connections that are uplifting and supportive.

“To live is to extend Ki.” This calligraphy from Koichi Tohei Sensei reminds us that Ki extension is not a separate activity. It is the essence of life itself. Our task is not to force or control it, but simply to allow it to happen. Often, we try to do too much, adding layers of action that actually interfere with our natural state. Extending Ki means letting go of this need to control. It invites us to observe, to notice, and to appreciate life as it unfolds. When we stop trying to do more, we find that Ki extends on its own, guiding us through both beauty and difficulty with a sense of acceptance and grace.

In the Quaker (Society of Friends) tradition they talk about proceeding as way opens which I find closely aligned with how I view “Ki Extends.” They both emphasize a natural, open, responsive way of living rather than one focused on forcing desired outcomes. They both involve patience, trust, and awareness of and in ourselves, our environment, and others. 

Five Principles of Extending Ki

• You are not overly conscious of your body.

• You make full use of centrifugal force in your movements.

• You have soft eyes and a poised body. 

• You show composure in your posture. 

• Therefore you are bright and easygoing.

1. You are not overly conscious of your body.
   When we extend Ki, we allow our focus to move beyond the limitations of our physical form. Too often, self-consciousness about our bodies — whether in movement or stillness — can create tension, making us hesitant or overly focused on ourselves. Extending Ki means freeing ourselves from this self-consciousness. Instead of being caught up in how we look or move, we can focus on being present and connected. Our movements become natural, and we inhabit our bodies comfortably, without fixating on form or appearance. This principle encourages a sense of ease, where our attention is outward, allowing us to engage fully with the world.

2. You make full use of centrifugal force in your movements.
   Nature has its own set of laws, and centrifugal force is one that offers us stability and balance. Just as a spinning top maintains its upright position through outward force, we can harness this same principle in our movements. By embracing centrifugal force, we don’t need to use extra effort or force to stay balanced — we allow natural forces to support us. This teaches us a broader lesson: life often provides the support we need if we stop resisting and learn to flow with it. Extending Ki in this way means aligning with the natural flow of energy rather than struggling against it, letting our movements be steady and centered.

3. You have soft eyes and a poised body.
   When Ki extends, our vision softens. Soft eyes are receptive eyes; they take in the world without strain or judgment. This softness in our gaze translates to our entire body. We become both poised and relaxed, embodying a state of readiness without rigidity. When our eyes and body are soft and poised, we remain open to the full scope of experience, able to respond with ease rather than react with tension. This state of relaxed awareness allows us to perceive clearly, enabling us to adapt and act appropriately, no matter what arises.

4. You show composure in your posture.
   Composure is an inner strength that shows up outwardly in how we carry ourselves. Extending Ki brings a quiet confidence. When we are composed, others can sense our calm and may even feel more at ease in our presence. It is a posture that radiates a kind of calm assurance that neither falters in adversity nor becomes overly elated in success. This composure gives us a sense of control not over others, but over our own reactions. In extending Ki, we cultivate this state, reflecting an inner calm that can hold steady through life’s challenges.

5. Therefore, you are bright and easygoing.
   When Ki extends freely, a sense of brightness fills our being. We feel light-hearted, able to laugh, and find joy in the simple moments. This brightness isn’t forced; it’s a natural expression of being connected and at ease with ourselves and others. In this state, we are easygoing, able to adapt to changing circumstances without becoming overwhelmed or rigid. Extending Ki brings about an effortless joy and calm, making us naturally uplifting to those around us. Our presence becomes warm and inviting, a reflection of the “plus life” we are choosing to live.

Plus Life

The absolute universe is One, an undivided whole. But within this unity, duality arose, giving birth to the relative world we experience every day. These opposing forces create contrast, allowing us to understand light by knowing darkness, and joy by experiencing sorrow.

A bright, joyful life is often described as “plus life.” But choosing a plus life is not about naïveté or ignoring life’s hardships, nor is it an attempt to be a “Pollyanna,” seeing only what’s pleasant. Instead, it’s a deliberate choice to meet life with resilience and openness, acknowledging both joy and sorrow. A “plus life” embraces reality in all its complexity, finding ways to stay engaged, centered, and optimistic even in challenging times.

As we practice extending Ki, we let go of minus thoughts and embrace a mindset that brings energy, positivity, and openness. This isn’t just beneficial for ourselves; it influences the world around us, creating a ripple effect that uplifts others. Let’s choose a plus life, cultivating a perspective that allows us to meet each moment with curiosity, openness, and resilience.

I look forward to seeing you on the mat (and in daily life) soon!