Tai Chi Beginnings

A journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step.

This is from the Tao Te Ching written by Lao Tzu in 600 BCE. The interesting thing is that even though we live in the 21^st century personal journeys still begin with the first step into the unknown.

So it is with this blog. Which direction it will go is unknown. Where it’s headed is uncertain. Though I feel I am at the point where I have travelled far in my personal and working life, I am still learning. And it takes just one look up at the stars and moon, or the sun rising and setting to realize we are living in a wonderful, huge world. You only need to witness the simple things in life to feel we are all part of something greater.

First steps - heading to the local markets

In the busy-ness of every day, tai chi brings quietude and peace. From this silence and inner stillness we can find balance on many different levels. For me, tai chi is beneficial as it’s also known as moving meditation. From the physical movements we can learn more about our bodies, strengthen our muscles and bones, and boost our immune systems. For someone such as me who is partially deaf and blind, tai chi is my way of strengthening my body and mind. 

Tai chi or Taiji keeps me focussed on what I CAN do not what I can’t do. Through daily practice, I  am more familiar with my arms, legs and balance and find spatial awareness is inbuilt in me. That may sound strange but for many our bodies are just a vehicle that transports us from home to work and around. Listening to our bodies is something we tend to neglect. When I do occasionally knock into corners, generally no one seems to suspect I have limited sight or hearing. In addition, falling is not something that worries me, nor do I want it to be something to fear in years to come as I get older.

Steady balance is always important when walking

I am not a master or even a teacher of tai chi. For me,  practising tai chi for over 25 years and following the principles that make up tai chi guides me through each day. I would love to hear about what it is about tai chi that inspires people. Perhaps you just LIKE tai chi for no other reason than just 'playing tai chi' each day. 

For young and old, the strong and the frail, tai chi is a way of life that anyone and everyone can enjoy. Tai Chi or Taiji has as many parts to it as there are stars in the universe. I hope this blog will be the first step in a happy, healthy journey toward a joyful content future.

What is Tai Chi?

What is tai chi?  “ The slowest way to kill a man!” said a friend’s young son. You see groups of people stretching in the park or yin yang symbols dotting club walls and wonder - is this for me? For many, the thought of wearing silken pyjamas en masse is just too weird.  

Let’s start at the beginning.

If you’re after a strict definition - As I am not a master you might like to look up Wikipedia or one of the many other tai chi websites to find an explanation that satisfies you.

Here’s a great one from The Harvard Medical School Guide to Tai Chi.

“Tai Chi" is a simplified abbreviation of the more formal name Tai Chi Chuan…Tai translates literally as “great” or “large.  Chi is used as a superlative, for example “biggest” or “most ultimate”. Together they are used to characterize the philosophical concept of the all-encompassing yin-yang principle, often translated as Supreme Ultimate." Whew! And that’s before we even get to Chuan. Although this is correct, the concept as a whole can be a bit overwhelming at first glance.

Chungliang Al Huang expresses the key concepts and secrets of tai chi through calligraphy which I find fascinating. Basically, tai chi through specific movements allows us to harness energy around us and within us. Rather than relying solely on medication or ongoing treatments, we can develop a sense of wellness within ourselves by regular exercise - or more particularly - simply by doing tai chi.

Why I love tai chi

Practicing out in the open air is always peaceful

I love tai chi because I can practice it outside on the verandah, in the park, at the beach, or even at home. I don’t need to wear special garments, just loose comfortable clothing. And I can do it whenever I have a spare moment. Regular classes are important, especially at the beginning, to ensure your posture and balance are correct. Breathing techniques are also introduced.

Feeling at ease and being comfortable is the most important point. If you are stressed, it will create tension within your body that can lead to ill health. Everyone is different so take your time when starting out.  For some, a feeling of calm is achieved immediately while for others it takes longer. Mastery of the self, or self-discipline cannot be hurried. So never worry, just do, just be and enjoy yourself.