The 70% Threshold

[Ajay0]

Sensei Sandeep Desai on the 70 % threshold in Taoism...

https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/blogs/the-speaking-tree/the-70-threshold/

Quote

At the heart of Tao philosophy is the 70% rule. It states that you should do a T’ai Chi movement to only 70% of your potential.

Striving for 100% inherently produces tension and stress because when you strain yourself, your body experiences fear. Even without you being aware of it, your tense body responds by shutting down. At 70% capacity, you can throw 100% of your energy and effort into practice, and you still generate 100% of the possible Chi that a T’ai Chi movement is capable of producing.

Going beyond 70% drains your energy reserves. Staying within 70% of your capacity produces optimum physical accomplishment, simultaneously reducing psychological stress. The more you relax, the more energy, stamina and strength you will have.

I found this interesting because medical science have also stated of a link between moderate exercise and longevity.

I know of a couple of athletes who died of a heart attack while going through rigorous physical regimens.

Similarly working at 70 percent capacity can also bring conditions of creativity, enjoyment of work and performing work mindfully.

[RickyFitts]

Very interesting! I know I've definitely felt the negative effects of pushing myself too hard, it only ended up setting me back in the long-run. I think it often stems from an unconscious belief in your own inherent inadequacy, which makes you feel like you have to strive and strain in order to prove that you are worthy.