Blog

🔊 Listen to Post

The conception of this Post has its beginning in 2008 when I was deciding to write a Manual on walking. In this book (MANUAL FOR WALKING, READING, WRITING AND DRAWING) I expressed: “It was on this occasion when, after having walked about 1 mile, I made a relationship between the technique of transcendental meditation, Tai Chi, Yoga and my walking exercises, because when I walk I invariably carry with me a book, which I read as I walk; and I also carry with me some small sheets (28×33 cm. office size sheets cut in ¼) that while I walk, I also carry with me some small sheets of paper (11×13 in. sheets cut in ¼) that, as I do this exercise daily, I can make progress in my reading and writing”.

Traducido al Español

Meditation is very similar or almost equivalent to the concentration I do on my walks (Post WALKING, MEDITATION AND CEREBRAL WAVES; Post DYNAMIC OR ACTIVE MEDITATION), either through reading or writing about a topic I am developing. On the other hand, Tai Chi is similar to the principles of the WALK-RWD system (Post THE FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES OF THE WALK-RWD SYSTEM) and equivalent to my own walking exercises. Of course -I said to myself-, I will have to review the philosophy of Tai Chi and go deeper into transcendental meditation to know these techniques better and to be able to relate them satisfactorily with the new system I was creating; so when I decided to write the Manual, I started to document myself better about these systems to know their outstanding aspects, which I organized independently, for a better use and analysis. This same functional model I used to investigate the Yoga system (Future Posts THE WALK IN YOGAKARA; THE WALK-RWD SYSTEM AND YOGA KUNDALINI).

I have mentioned during the last 5 years, through this Blog, that the stable imbalance generates stimulations to various organs, systems and glands of the body, and fundamentally to the brain (Post THE WALK-RWD SYSTEM ENCOURAGES CREATIVE THINKING, PART I). The most evident part of this stable imbalance can be seen in the fact that the organism itself generates a hundred substances that are essential for its correct functioning (Post THE WALK-RWD SYSTEM AND THE SELF-PRODUCTION OF ORGANIC SUBSTANCES), apart from the fact that there is sufficient evidence that it boosts creativity and other specific benefits (good digestion, better breathing and circulation, improves memory, and a long etcetera). The functional and essential axis of the WALK-RWD system is the process that is achieved by reading, writing and drawing, while walking, by placing the body in a permanent stable imbalance.

This stable imbalance is also observed in the Yoga system as well as in the Tai Chi system, although I consider that in the latter the functional development (process, transformation, evolution, transit) is more profound, and therefore stimulates the physical body and the mind in a more efficient way. This increase in its power – and efficiency – is achieved because in Tai Chi the number of postures in stable imbalance are performed in 100% of them, while in Yoga only 75%; moreover, in Tai Chi, the transit and transfer from one figure (posture) to another is developed through dynamic chaining, that is, through evolutions in movement, in a continuous fluidity, and this is what gives it greater efficiency.

Just as the WALK-RWD system is developed in a gentle way, just as we walk naturally, Tai Chi is performed respecting its essential principle, which is tranquility. All its sequences are also performed in a relaxed and loose way. Both WALK-RWD and TAI CHI take place in movement and in a fluid way.

Naturalness, softness and flexibility are characteristics of both systems, which enable their practitioners to achieve meditation and personal introspection. Both physical and mental concentration can be achieved (Future Post WALK OR RUN, THERE IS A DILEMMA).

The practice of both systems is achieved through the cultivation of breathing, physical and mental relaxation, without the obligation to perform exercises with great efforts, nor high speeds, nor accelerations, and less efforts that force the stiffness of the musculature, legs, arms, or some other members of the body.

Each sequence (or Form) of Tai Chi is composed of a number of steps or figures, which are developed in a continuous and fluid way, that is to say, with constant displacements and translations. The Tai Chi practitioner advances from one figure to the next by means of certain movements that place him in the next one; and so on, permanently and successively until the sequence is completed.

The strength of Tai Chi, both physical and directed towards the mind, is located in these two great aspects of the laws of movement: in the figures (positions of the body in stable imbalance) and in the transition from one to another of these postures.

Let us analyze the “postures” of Tai Chi in a generic way in order to corroborate the above-mentioned.

We said that these postures are based on a stable imbalance, where the body and mind seek to remain in balance, and this is what stimulates both the physical body and the brain.

To analyze the instability of the “postures” and “figures” of Tai Chi is easy, up to a certain point; not so for the moving developments of the transition from one position to the next, even if they are predefined, and are performed slowly and calmly. However, the very movement between the different figures involves an instability of the physical body, which does not need to be demonstrated. The axiomatic or self-evident basis of kinematics is: a body is in disequilibrium when it is in motion by itself or because of another body.

The body as a whole is analyzed during the whole translation that it undergoes from one figure to another, and in all this transit the movements that the extremities carry out, the arms-feet and the legs-hands, stand out, which is one of the fundamental aspects that generate an increase in the stimulation of the body and the mind. “Execution – movement – of the sequences from one form (posture) to another”.

Note that Tai Chi sequences are rhythmic processes in cadence and with rhythm. Much of this I have analyzed in the exercise of walking, as it also contains these elements and components of “musicalization” (Posts RHYTHM, COMPASS AND CADENCE IN OUR WALKING; THE SILENT SOUND OF OUR FOOTPRINTS, HEALS US; Future Posts ENJOYING OUR PERCUSSIVE MUSICAL WALKING; THE PERSONALITY DEFINED BY THE RHYTHM WHEN WALKING).

In both activities -WALK-RWD and TAI CHI- we can observe that combination (rhythm) of times between one physical movement and another, in such a way that we observe harmony. In both walking and Tai Chi we observe pauses and accentuations in the movements, which harmonically result in a successive cadence.  Speed and acceleration are also factors found in both systems, which show us the constant structuring of a beat, both in the various movements of walking and in the figures of Tai Chi, in the same sequence.

Another common element between these two systems is the principle of verticality which is recommended in both (Principle No. 4 of the WALK-RWD System).

I could even say that the cadenced rhythm of Tai Chi could be an analogy with poetry. With this I do not intend to idealize Tai Chi artistically, but we can homologate a sequence with a poem, a simile between both creations – one philosophical-motor and the other artistic – because undoubtedly that cadence of Tai Chi carries intrinsically spiritual elements – just like poetry – and so we can re-evaluate it in terms of the stimulation it generates in the mind, which is what I intend to make relevant.

I have practiced Tai chi very lightly in two periods of my life: in 1983 – for 6 weeks, once a week – and in 2023 – for 8 weeks, once a week – and only in teaching-learning rooms, but never at home or elsewhere; what I want to emphasize is that I am not an expert in this system.

However, it was enough to make me realize the benefits of developing its phases of: MOVEMENT + VERTICALITY + CONCENTRATION + RELAXATION + BREATHING.

– MOVEMENT

– VERTICALITY

– CONCENTRATION

– RELAXATION

– BREATHING.

Every movement we perform must be done with Balance and Coordination of all the parts and limbs of the body. Tai Chi is designed to maintain this balance and coordination. In other words, the forms and poses we take in movement – even in a state of rest – must be in accordance with the natural movement of the physical body.

Tai Chi is a holistic discipline, and has been called the “Art of Relaxation and Meditation in Movement”: ARMM. In general, it does not have unnatural poses like Yoga, such as head down.

During the constant practice of Tai Chi you can develop and manifest yourself effectively. The benefits that are achieved I have organized into 3 categories, namely:

Physical Benefits:

– Improved Flexibility: The slow, flowing movements of Tai Chi help to increase the flexibility of joints and muscles, which helps to maintain a greater range of motion.

– Muscle Strengthening: Although the movements are gentle, Tai Chi involves several muscle groups, which gradually helps to strengthen the overall body.

– Balance and Coordination: Consistent practice of Tai Chi improves coordination and balance, reducing the risk of falls, especially in older people.

– Improved Posture: The principles of alignment in Tai Chi promote better posture, which can help alleviate back pain and prevent postural problems.

– Muscle Relaxation: The slow movements and focus on deep breathing promote muscle relaxation and reduce accumulated tension.

– Cardiovascular Improvement: Although Tai Chi is low intensity, regular practice can improve blood circulation and overall cardiovascular health.

Mental Benefits:

– Stress Reduction: The combination of gentle movements and deep breathing helps reduce stress levels and promotes a sense of calm.

– Improved Focus: The mindfulness required during Tai Chi practice improves concentration and the ability to focus on other areas of life.

– Promotion of Mental Relaxation: The flowing movements and concentration on breathing help to relax the mind, reducing anxiety and mental agitation.

– Increased Body Awareness: Tai Chi encourages the mind-body connection, which increases awareness of the body’s sensations and movements.

– Cognitive Stimulation: Regular practice of Tai Chi can have a positive impact on cognitive function, such as memory and problem-solving ability.

Other Benefits:

– Longevity Promotion: Because Tai Chi is a low-impact activity that benefits both body and mind, it can contribute to a longer, healthier life.

– Mood Connection: For some practitioners, Tai Chi may have a mood component, i.e., it fosters connection with oneself and the universe.

– Encouraging Socialization: Tai Chi classes provide opportunities to interact with other practitioners, which can contribute to greater socialization and sense of community.

Uniquely, and therefore I have left it for this last part, Tai Chi supports Meditation, in several ways, as it shares principles and practices that align with meditative goals:

1. Mindfulness: As in meditation, Tai Chi emphasizes mindfulness in the present moment. During practice, you focus on your movements, breathing and body sensations, which encourages mindfulness similar to meditation.

2. Mindful Breathing: In both Tai Chi and meditation, mindful breathing is fundamental. In both practices, deep, rhythmic breathing calms the mind and helps to enter a state of relaxation and focus.

3. Mind-Body Connection: In both meditation and Tai Chi, a greater connection between mind and body is sought. In Tai Chi, movements are performed in a conscious and flowing manner, which promotes a synchronization between thoughts and actions, similar to the focus on the mind and sensations during meditation.

4. Reduced Mental Agitation: The consistent practice of Tai Chi can help calm mental agitation by requiring a constant focus on movements and breathing. This can lead to a calmer state of mind, similar to that sought in meditation.

5. Deep Relaxation: Both Tai Chi and meditation seek to induce a state of deep relaxation. The smooth, flowing movements of Tai Chi combined with deep breathing have a relaxing effect on the nervous system, which is beneficial for meditation.

6. Stimulation of Sensory Awareness: During the practice of Tai Chi, attention is paid to body sensations, posture and balance. This encourages sensory awareness similar to meditation, where attention is paid to physical and mental sensations.

Tai Chi, like our WALK-RWD system, is an active form of meditation in movement. It is certainly not the traditional meditation that we are taught to be silent and in a state of rest, but shares elements of concentration, abstraction, relaxation with movement and thought, resulting in an effective way of achieving the same benefits for the mind and body.

Traducido al Español

🔊 Listen to Post

The ancient Mayans built a vast and sophisticated network of white roads (Post THE ANCIENT MAYAS AND THEIR WHITE ROADS. PART I), known as sacbeob, that connected their cities, ceremonial centers, and plazas. These paths, covered with a layer of white stucco, not only served as physical routes, but also had deep spiritual meaning. They were earthly reflections of the movement of the stars in the sky, a tangible representation of the connection between heaven and earth. The Mayans, expert astronomers, traced these paths in alignment with celestial trajectories, granting them a sacred value that went beyond their practical usefulness.

Traducido al Español

However, in the midst of this complex network of white roads, an intriguing question arises: why did the Mayans, who knew the principle of the wheel, never use it in their daily transportation activities along these roads? The answer, as we have explored, is deeply rooted in their religious and cosmological beliefs (1).

For the Mayans, the circle and the wheel symbolized the Sun, the source of life and energy that governed their universe. The Sun, represented as a circular figure, was a central element in their worldview, being venerated as the main god, Itzamná, or as Kinich Ahau, the god of the Sun in its most direct aspect. Using the wheel on the white roads would have been, in a way, a desecration of the divine symbol, since this would imply bringing the Sun, or its representation, into direct contact with the earth, where the dead and the forces of the underworld lived. This symbolic contact with the earth would have extinguished its divine light, reducing the Sun to a state of inactivity or death, which was inconceivable to the Mayans.

The white roads, for their part, were conceived as sacred routes, not only for the transit of human beings, but also as reflections of the paths of the gods and the stars in the sky. By traveling these paths, the Mayans not only moved physically, but also participated in a cosmic ritual, aligning themselves with the movement of the stars and the Sun. The absence of the wheel in this context highlights the importance of maintaining the purity of these roads, avoiding the desecration of the solar symbol.

It is possible to imagine that, for the Mayans, walking through these sacbeob was a way of emulating the movement of the gods and stars in the sky, an act of devotion that connected the earthly with the heavenly. The wheel, with its solar symbolism, had no place on these sacred paths, since its use would have distorted the divine nature of the path and its relationship with the cosmos. In this way, the decision not to use the wheel on the white roads was not a technical limitation, but a conscious and deeply religious choice, rooted in the Mayan worldview.

This analysis of the relationship between the white roads and the wheel in Mayan culture reveals how technology and religion were intertwined in a complex network of meanings, where each choice was loaded with symbolism and respect for the divine forces that governed the universe. The Mayans, by refraining from using the wheel, not only preserved their religious beliefs, but also maintained the purity and sacred purpose of their white roads, as routes for divine and human transit, reflecting the orderly dance of the stars in the firmament.

Walking is an ancestral act that connects the human being with the very essence of life. In a world where the wheel, a symbol of mobility and technological advancement, has transformed the way we get around, it is easy to forget the simplicity and benefits of a walk. The wheel, in its modern automobile form, takes us quickly from one place to another, but often at the cost of our health and well-being.

When walking, we leave aside the impersonal speed of the vehicle and immerse ourselves in the natural rhythm of our body. Each step is a heartbeat that connects us with the earth (Post WALKING WITH UNCHAINED PROMETHEUS), a breath that oxygenates our being and a moment of meditation in movement. Walking not only strengthens our body, but also clears our mind, offering us a break from the daily whirlwind.

Just as the ancient Mayans walked their White Paths, following the sacred trajectories of the stars, we can also find in the walk a path to inner peace and well-being. By choosing to walk, we choose a path of health and serenity, reminding ourselves that sometimes the most valuable journey is the one we take on our own feet.

I invite everyone to rediscover the beauty of walking, to enjoy nature, to connect with themselves and to remember that, although the wheel takes us far, it is walking that keeps us truly in touch with life.

(1)Loya Lopátegui, Carlos, La Rueda en los Mayas. Explorando un misterio ancestral, EMULISA, México, 2024. Version available on Amazon, Kindle Edition: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DJV7151Y.

Traducido al Español

🔊 Listen to Post

This Post has 2 fundamental purposes: Analyze what sugar represents for human consumption, and point out the benefits of walking regularly in order to prevent sugar-related diseases.

Traducido al Español

Let’s start with the first purpose.

Characteristics of sugar: Sugar is a carbohydrate naturally present in many foods, but it is also produced industrially from sugar cane or beets. It comes in several forms, with sucrose (table sugar), fructose (fruit sugar) and glucose being the most common.

Glucose levels: Sugar consumption affects blood glucose levels, increasing its concentration quickly. This can have negative impacts on health, especially in people with diabetes, as it can cause glucose spikes that are difficult to control.

Beneficial effects: Sugar can provide quick energy to the body, which is beneficial in situations of high physical activity. In addition, moderate sugar consumption can stimulate the production of endorphins, generating a feeling of well-being and pleasure.

Malicious effects: Excessive sugar consumption can lead to weight gain and obesity, as well as insulin resistance, a risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Additionally, high sugar consumption has been associated with increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as high blood pressure and heart disease.

Recommended consumption: Health organizations, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), recommend limiting the consumption of added sugars to less than 10% of total daily caloric intake. However, in today’s diet, with the presence of processed foods and sugary drinks, following these recommendations can be difficult.

Sugar Alternatives: Honey, maple syrup, artificial sweeteners, and other natural sweeteners can be used as alternatives to refined sugar. These alternatives may offer benefits such as less impact on blood glucose levels, however, if consumed in excess, there are also risks and negative effects.

Impact on mental health: Sugar consumption can affect mental health, as some studies suggest it may be linked to an increased risk of depression and anxiety. Excess sugar consumption can also affect mood and concentration in some people.

Tips to reduce consumption: To reduce sugar consumption, you can follow some practical tips, such as reading food labels to identify the sugar content, avoiding sugary drinks, opting for natural and low-sugar foods, and reducing the consumption of processed foods.

Effects of sugar on physical performance: Sugar can have both positive and negative effects on physical performance. In small amounts, it can provide quick energy during exercise, but in excess it can cause blood glucose spikes that negatively affect long-term recovery and performance.

Ethical and social considerations: Sugar consumption also has ethical and social implications, especially in relation to the food industry and food advertising aimed at children. Excess sugar consumption can contribute to public health problems such as obesity and diabetes, raising questions about the responsibility of companies and governments in regulating its consumption.

Now, let’s move on to the 2nd purpose.

Walking every day can help mitigate some of the harmful effects of sugar on the body. Some of the benefits of walking regularly include:

1. Weight control: Regular exercise, such as walking, can help control body weight. This is important as excessive sugar consumption can contribute to weight gain, which in turn increases the risk of obesity-related diseases.

2. Improved insulin sensitivity: Regular exercise can increase insulin sensitivity, which helps keep blood glucose levels stable. This is especially beneficial for people with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes.

3. Cardiovascular health: Walking can help improve cardiovascular health, which is important since excessive sugar consumption can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.

4. Stress reduction: Walking, as with other types of exercises, helps reduce stress and improves mood. This may be beneficial since excessive sugar consumption has been linked to an increased risk of depression and anxiety.

5. Increased energy: Regular walking increases energy levels and reduces feelings of fatigue, which can counteract the negative effects of sugar on the body.

Walking every day can be an effective strategy to mitigate the harmful effects of sugar, especially when combined with a healthy, balanced diet.

Finally, walking can be beneficial in the management and prevention of various diseases, including diabetes, hyperlipidemia, cardiovascular disease, fatty liver, some types of cancer, and dental cavities. In these specific cases of morbidity, we can point out important aspects for each of them.

1. Diabetes: Regular exercise, such as walking, can help control blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications.

2. Hyperlipidemia: Walking, aerobic exercise, helps reduce levels of LDL cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol) and triglycerides, and increases HDL cholesterol (“good” cholesterol), which can help control hyperlipidemia.

3. Cardiovascular disease: Regular walking strengthens the heart and improves blood circulation, which can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as high blood pressure, coronary heart disease and stroke.

4. Fatty liver: Walking helps reduce fat accumulation in the liver, which can be beneficial in managing non-alcoholic fatty liver.

5. Some types of cancer: Walking regularly helps reduce the risk of developing some types of cancer, such as colon, breast and lung cancer.

6. Tooth decay: Walking can contribute to better oral health by promoting saliva production, which helps neutralize acids in the mouth that can cause tooth decay.

As an outstanding aspect, I would like to mention that regular walking can also help improve or mitigate the malignant effects of sugar on mental illnesses such as Alzheimer’s:

7 Alzheimer’s: Regular exercise, such as walking, can help reduce the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Exercise can improve cognitive function, reduce inflammation, and promote overall brain health.

8 Other mental illnesses: Regular walking can also have positive effects on other mental illnesses, such as depression and anxiety. Exercise can help reduce the symptoms of these diseases and improve overall mood.

Regular walking can be an effective strategy to improve mental health and reduce the risk of developing mental illnesses, including Alzheimer’s, especially in people who consume excessive sugar.

Overall, regular walking can be an effective strategy for improving overall health and reducing the risk of developing these diseases. However, it is important to complement exercise with a healthy diet (1), reducing sugar consumption and practicing other healthy lifestyle habits to obtain the best results.

Let’s go for a walk to help us from the effects of sugar.

(1)Loya Lopategui, Carlos, Flavors Diet. The Art of Savoring Food, EMULISA, Mexico, 2024. Version available on Amazon, Kindle Edition: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D42N64W7

Traducido al Español

🔊 Listen to Post

The legend of Drummer Walker symbolizes the inner quest and journey of life. Each of us is like the Walker, choosing different paths in our search for meaning and purpose. The drums represent the constant rhythm of life, the universe’s heartbeat that connects us all.

Traducido al español

This post is inspired by my long story titled “The Drummer of the Magic Roads”(*); but it is also a consequent of the 5th Principle or Principle of Rhythm, Compass and Cadence: Every individual has his own rhythm, Compass and cadence, he just has to discover them, apply them and maintain them while walking (Post RHYTHM, COMPASS AND CADENCE IN OUR WALKING).

In ancient times, when the world still resonated with the magic of the unknown, there was a singular being that wandered along paths of all kinds and throughout the world. This individual always kept a smile and had a special shine in his eyes, which conveyed complete happiness, and he invariably carried with him a drum that was said to be a gift from the gods. With his percussive sounds he guided people along unexpected and wonderful roads.

Every day, at dawn, he emerged from the shadows of dawn with a different drum in his hands; one day it was the frame drum, whose joyful and festive sound called to celebration and unity; another day it was the trench drum, whose soft, lilting rhythm inspired introspection and calm.

The people who listened to him understood this pattern, and they liked to accompany him (they began to follow him) on his marches (tours), eagerly waiting every day he passed to see which drum he carried with him to listen to its melodious and seductive rhythms. On days when the box drum resounded, the streets were filled with laughter and dancing. In the days of the djembe drum, people fell into silent meditations, searching for answers in the echoes of their own thoughts.

Because of this, the Drummer became a legendary figure, recounted everywhere as the “Drummer Walker.” It was said that those who followed him learned valuable lessons about life and the world around them, simply by listening to the message that each drum brought with it, and that it always transformed any path into a Magical Road, reinforced by its drums.

The legend of the Drumer Walker has endured through the ages, reminding us that although the paths we choose may be different, we are all united by the universal rhythm of existence. Symbolizes the inner quest and journey of life. Each of us is like the Walker, choosing different paths in our search for meaning and purpose. The drums represent the constant rhythm of life, the heartbeat of the universe that connects us all. Though our paths may be different, we are all united by this common experience of existing, marked by that universal rhythm that drives us to move forward, to explore and discover what awaits us every step of the way.

In his legendary journeys, the Drummer carried a single drum that he used to beat, according to the path he chose to walk and would convert into a Magical Road. Each drum had a unique sound and purpose. Each one of them was listened to with special and suggestive messages.

Without the Drummer knowing how, the drums selected (chose) themselves to accompany him; however, he was fully aware that whoever accompanied him on each journey identified with the type of magical road along which he would lead (guide) people along the path that had been chosen.

The most illustrious drummers that accompanied him, in his magical processions, were, and continue to be, the following:

The small drum, with its festive and energetic rhythm, guided people along the paths of celebration and joy, where laughter resonated among the trees and the dance became a tribute to life.

The frame drum, with its calm and contemplative cadence, led through the paths of introspection, where each step was an opportunity to reflect on the path traveled and the future. In those moments, silence became a wise companion, whispering secrets of the soul.

The tambourine, with its melodic histrionics, accompanied the walkers along the paths, creating a musical procession, where a true symphony of simultaneous rhythms was created.

The trench drum, designed to be played on the move, led followers down paths of action and determination. With its constant and energetic rhythm, it inspired us to overcome obstacles and move steadily towards the desired destination.

The box drum, with its powerful and energetic sound, marked the followers’ passage along the paths of strength and resistance. In those moments, the Drummer reminded them that, with determination and courage, they could overcome any challenge that stood in their way.

The djembe, with its deep, resonant sound, led through the paths of connection with nature and spirit. Under the shade of ancient trees and the murmur of crystalline streams, the Drummer taught the importance of being in harmony with the world around us.

This is a day that the Drummer will be accompanied by a Small Drum, and as his own spirit defines it, the person who goes out for a walk will be able to celebrate with joy and calmly enter into his positive thoughts. What are you waiting for to go for a walk?

(*) Loya Lopategui, Carlos, The Drummer of the Magic Roads, EMULISA, México, 2024. Available on Amazon, Kindle edition: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D5BJ3JH2.

Traducido al español

🔊 Listen to Post

There are 3 elucidations (*) that we present about peripatetics in Post CAMINAR AND THE PERIPATETICS, which emerge as principles (first fruits) of this system: 1) obtaining health, 2) the generation of ideas and 3) the transmission of knowledge, all while walking. We have stated: “Although in most translations of Aristotle’s works not much attention is paid to the teaching method he used in the Lyceum, Athens”, since he himself did not express it explicitly in his writings, I must point out 2 aspects that In my opinion, I consider that they coexisted in their traditional and inexcusable walks: the trees (Post WALKING WITH THE TREES; Future Post WHY DON’T TREES AND PLANTS WALK?) and the rays of the sun ( Post Futuro THE WALK-RWD SYSTEM AND A BATH OF SOLAR RAYS; In each of the respective Posts, in which I point out the importance of both trees and the sun’s rays with respect to the 3 mentioned elucidations, walking under the tree fronds and sunlight was a conscious source or semiconscious for Aristotle to generate ideas and transmit his knowledge.

Traducido al Español

(*)Quote from post : “It is interesting to investigate the purposes that led Aristotle to use this teaching system. The little or much that we clarify about this, in the future, will be very important. Undoubtedly (first elucidation) that in those times they knew what walking meant from the point of view of promoting the physical health of the body, but they also had the certainty (second elucidation) that the practice of walking caused the incontrovertible gestation and flowering of ideas, the stimulation and development of memory, fundamental aspects in the development of the field of creativity (ideas, memory, inspiration, imagination, etc.) and teaching and learning (third elucidation) always seeking higher thinking.”

Aristotle, as the first Peripatetic, taught in a somewhat different way than we are accustomed to today. His pedagogical method was based on direct interaction with his disciples while walking through the gardens of the Lyceum, a kind of park where he used to give his classes.

This approach was called “peripatetic”, which means “one who walks” in Greek, because Aristotle taught while walking with his students. During these walks, Aristotle discussed various philosophical, metaphysical, moralistic, social and ethical topics, encouraging his disciples to actively participate in conversations and debates (walking and talking).

During his walks, Aristotle used various forms of teaching, such as reading texts, group discussions, and conducting experiments and observations of nature. Its objective was to encourage critical thinking and reflection in its students, as well as transmit their knowledge to them in a practical and accessible way. And always walking under the foliage of the trees.

He had verified, for many years, that doing it this way, his disciples listened to him with greater pleasure, the ideas were better fixed in their minds and it caused them to generate more of them.

Acroamatism (**) was the most private and direct way to carry out these wanderings of knowledge. His oral teachings, through stories and speeches, under the trees, and always walking, were the ideal way to transmit his knowledge.

Aristotle pointed out to his students that they should walk alongside him, and not get too far away, to assimilate knowledge in an ideal way. He constantly repeated this instruction during his walks to all of them so that they would stay together and not lose any of his harangues and the comments and questions they asked him. It was a physical way to keep them in the middle, close to him so they could hear him. Later, as a result of this, it would be used as a metaphor: “In the middle is virtue,” and this phrase became a proverb to regulate the search for knowledge and appropriate behavior in all human activities.

In Greek, the idea of the “middle way” is expressed through the concept of “μεσότης” (mesotēs), which relates to the Aristotelian notion of finding a balance or moderation in the virtuous life.

In Latin, the phrase “In medio stat virtus” was used, which took up that proverb: “In the middle is virtue”, referring to the idea that virtue is found in balance or moderation, avoiding extremes. This phrase has been used by several classical authors, such as Horace and Cicero, to express the importance of moderation in life. Although this phrase “In medio stat virtus” is not a direct quote from Aristotle, it does reflect Aristotle’s philosophy regarding virtue and balance, and was used in later philosophical tradition to summarize these concepts.

Saint Thomas Aquinas, an influential medieval philosopher and theologian, also drew on Aristotelian ethics in his philosophical interpretations and disquisitions. The “middle way” defined in this phrase “In medio stat virtus” was used by him in his Aristotelian interpretations and disquisitions, which meant “Virtue is in the middle” or “Virtue is found at the intermediate point.” This expression effectively reflects a central concept in Aristotelian ethics, maintaining that virtue is found by seeking a balance, or middle ground between two extremes.

We have already mentioned this Aristotelian philosophical sense in Post THE PATH OF VACUITY, when we believe that: “This moderation is the qualification that must be available so that actions under the guidelines of the Mahayana or school of emptiness of Nagarjuna They are at the midpoint of human behavior, centered within the extreme limits of the human condition. Extreme actions are canceled as a functional demand of the Sunyata, however, if for some reason the “sunyatins” (adepts) had – or have – to relate to exaggerated actions or ideas, they can always cancel or avoid them, rejecting them. The Nagarjuna School flourished precisely because it responded to this moderation in demands and condemned the obligatory nature of behavior to exaggerated extremes; hence, he has included in his philosophy the Path of the Middle Way, or the Middle Center or the Middle Way (Madhyamaka). […]Nagarjuna’s instruction and teaching was a path that had to be followed rejecting extremes; this path had to be followed through the middle points, without touching the extreme limits of the human condition.[…] In everything related to the WALK-RWD system, we must avoid and eliminate all extremes, in such a way that the “walk” must be carried out along that middle path, between the extreme limits, and the 3 structured activities (reading, writing and drawing) must also be maintained on that path.”

An Aristotelian walker, ergo: peripatetic, means that individual who wanders on a path covered with trees, around a space full of light, and who does so by reading aloud, commenting on his readings and his ideas, and also writing.

Surely Aristotle and other people did know what trees emitted, which is why they used to walk under their shade.

Let’s find a path lined with trees and walk for 30 minutes, which represents only 2% of a day, and with this we will give our body 100% health, every day.

(**)ACHROMATIC: From gr. akroama: “that is heard” or “relating to the ear”; it was understood as what is heard with pleasure. It applied to the procedure or teaching that uses speeches, explanations or narratives to transmit knowledge, and always communicating orally. It applied to the most exclusive and private teachings that Aristotle gave to his favorite and special disciples. In its original meaning, it referred to the secret oral teachings of the Greek philosophers, which were transmitted orally and not in writing. Over time, the term has evolved to refer to something that is difficult to understand or that is reserved for a select group of people with specific knowledge about a topic, hence its synonymy with esoteric, exoteric and abstruse.

With this post we are starting the 7th year of the Blog.

Traducido al Español