I led a workshop on Rock Balancing, the first time I’ve ever shared my practice at the European Commission. To be honest, I was a bit nervous (not exactly ideal when trying to stack stones!). For most participants, this was a brand-new experience. They explored the practice, experimented with balancing the stones they had brought, and embraced both the inevitable collapses and the magic of finally achieving balance. The atmosphere was light-hearted and full of curiosity. I’m grateful to everyone for enthusiastically embracing both the practice itself and my guidance.
The practice of rock balancing involves creating a contemplative arrangement of stones in a delicate state of equilibrium. It’s a form of moving meditation. It helps you connect with Nature and with yourself. Through the practice, you develop self-control, self-confidence, patience, calmness, and concentration. It is an ephemeral art where collapses are very frequent. These teach you: To appreciate the present moment and the simple joy of balancing stones; To let go of rivalry, perfectionism, haste, rush, and attachment to possessions. The behaviours required are patience, problem-solving, adaptation, slow breathing, steady hands, and an open, empty mind.
Physics tells us that equilibrium is possible when the object is supported under its centre of gravity. This means the vertical line of the force of gravity passes through the centre of gravity and the contact point on the ground.
It means that for each stone, you have to find its three tiny indentations which act as a natural tripod so that the stone remains balanced.
What if people were stones? What would be the outer hands and force that would allow us to be in balance? In balance as individuals alone and with others. Are our indentations our imperfections, our irregularities, or our strengths? Or all? Just like with stones, shouldn’t we take the time to look for these indentations to better understand what keeps us balanced?
I have been practicing rock balancing since childhood, often in the great outdoors.
It is one of my favorite meditation methods, as I am alone in Nature, in intimate contact with the elements, the wind, and myself. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I intensified my practice and decided to take photos that you can watch in my album Rock balancing
Claudio, I would take your workshop immediately! Looks like a nice mix of challenging and fun!
It’s definitely a good mix of challenge and fun, and patience. I would love to have you at this workshop, Mike! (Sorry for my late response, your message was lost in a myriad of spam)