Using a water ladle, or bing shao (饼勺), is an art that combines mindfulness, technique, and energy flow. Here’s a step-by-step guide to mastering its use.

1. Picking Up the Ladle

When picking up the ladle, avoid gripping it tightly or casually. Such tension can affect your movements. In tea practice, we follow the principle of lifting heavy things as if they are light, and light things as if they are heavy.

To correctly lift the ladle:

1. Use three fingers to gently pinch the middle of the handle.
2. Keep the ladle head resting on the water container.
3. Gradually lift until your wrist naturally supports the handle like a lever.
4. Assist with your right hand to stabilize the ladle head and flip it over smoothly.

Key points:

• Keep your left hand relaxed; do not stretch or tense your fingers.
• Ensure the ladle feels like an extension of your arm.

2. Body Alignment and Relaxation

After holding the ladle, take a moment to pause and check:

• Is the ladle head perpendicular to the tatami?
• Is the height of the ladle level with your chest?
• Are your arms and hands relaxed, forming a posture like hugging a tree?

This “hugging a tree” position allows energy (qi) to flow more freely. Imagine you are holding an invisible balloon of energy between your arms. Pause for one to two seconds to feel the alignment and connection within your body.

3. Scooping Water

To scoop water:

1. Use your right hand to turn the ladle horizontally.
2. Maintain a relaxed left hand, gripping lightly at two points to form a lever.
3. Direct the force to your dantian (lower abdomen) for stability.
4. Guide the ladle smoothly into the water with your thumb and fingers in sync.

Important: The ladle should align with your palm and fingers, forming a natural extension of your arm. As the ladle turns, focus on movement originating from your abdomen, not just your wrist.

4. Advanced Practice

In more advanced practice, integrate your qi (energy) and intention with your movements:

• First, visualize the ladle entering the water.
• Then, guide your qi to follow your intention.
• Finally, let your physical movement complete the action.

This approach—mind leading energy, energy leading movement—is a refined practice that takes time and focus to master.

Conclusion

Mastering the use of the water ladle is both an art and a journey. In future lessons, we’ll explore its crafting, techniques for cutting, and its role in drinking rituals. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment. Thank you!