In our fast-paced world, where our minds race, and to-do lists seem endless, a holistic approach to well-being is more essential than ever. Distractions lurk at every corner, and stress levels soar higher than a kite on a windy day! My name is Ed Shiang, and as a semi-proud graduate of MIT and UCLA Business School (my real-life lessons came later), I never imagined I would be writing a book about consciousness and movement. Yet, here we are - surprise, surprise!
*Quantum Mindfulness in Motion* starts by exploring the fusion of ancient mindfulness practices with the revolutionary insights of quantum physics, highlighting mindfulness as a state of awareness that dynamically interacts with the universe. Then, we explore mindfulness and its connection to movement. The magic lies in marrying mindfulness with the wonderful ancient practices of Yoga, Tai Chi/Qi Gong, and the more modern practice of Ecstatic Dance. This book provides beginner exercises in each of these disciplines. This book is not about perfection-it's about presence, connection, and the joy of discovering what feels right for you! Once you are feeling great, we explore the natural progression of being fulfilled by being in service.
Now, let me be clear-I am no expert in any of these disciplines. I haven't spent years training in some mystical school tucked away in the mountains, nor have I ever attended a weekend workshop in any of these arts. My experience is more like a casual yet intentional stroll through the world of mindfulness yet if rigorous exercise is something you seek it is within this book.
Here's the good news: you don't have to be an expert either! What truly matters is your willingness to feel the energy-yes, that enchanting Qi-from each of these practices. You don't need to memorize every pose or movement; just allow yourself to connect with the sensations and memories that arise during your practice. This connection will be enough to carry you forward on your journey.
My journey into mindfulness began unexpectedly at the Portland Public Library 25 years ago. I was searching for happiness, feeling disillusioned with the usual societal paths. Just as I was about to abandon my quest, knowing a monastic life wasn't for me, a book dropped from the shelf right at my feet. It was *Meditation Made Easy* by Loren Roche. Intrigued, I picked it up, completely unaware that this serendipitous moment would change my life forever.
Fast forward four years, and I found myself in the Mojave Desert, working for my brother's environmental company. After a long day, I veered off the beaten path yet again and found myself on the familiar cliffs of Mitchell Caverns. There, surrounded by nature's beauty, I settled into meditation, and what unfolded was extraordinary-a physical and energetic awakening surged through me like pure vitality. A radiant wave of cleansing energy surrounded me, revealing the profound interconnectedness of all beings, that at our core we are all energy-what we often refer to as ONENESS. This realization transformed from a mere concept into a tangible, energetic sensation that I could feel throughout my entire being.
As I continued my exploration, I began hosting shows at KUCI in Irvine, CA, and at KBOO in Portland, OR, inviting guests who shared insights on mindfulness and spirituality. One guest left me a book of quotes from Sai Sathya Baba, which beautifully encapsulated the consciousness I felt during my practice. Sai Baba called it Satchitananda-a blissful state of truth and consciousness. This discovery reassured me that I was not alone.
Whatever journey you are on, I invite you to explore how the combination of movement, consciousness, and service can unlock our true potential in a fun and exciting way. As we embark on this journey together, I invite you to begin by discovering the transformational power of mindfulness and movement through the lens of quantum physics.
