Tai Chi

I have been dabbling in Tai Chi for a number of years now. The first few sessions of Tai Chi were challenging. I often felt frustrated and overwhelmed. As an anxious person I would get stressed easily and over think everything which also affects my memory and coordination. Due to this the relaxation and meditative aspect of Tai Chi was almost at times completely lost on me. Looking back it was partially a case of adding too much onto my plate as I also navigated my Kung Fu, the IHC and chronic anxiety. 

Even though Tai Chi was a struggle it was also a huge benefit to the rest of my Kung fu. As the bumps started to smooth out I began to feel some flow within the easier pieces and this started to translate into my forms. After a number of starts and stops for different reasons I have come to a place where I feel the desire to learn and integrate Tai Chi into my life on and off the mats. Tai Chi is one of my personal goals this year and will blend in very nicely with my weapon, the Tai Chi straight sword.

I’m a much different Tai Chi student today than I was in the past. The person I am today is much more relaxed when it comes to learning and navigating new things. I’ve learned to slow down a bit and take things in instead of going to battle and trying to force something that isn’t quite there yet. As a result I’m feeling and noticing more. 

Tai Chi has the ability to change my mood from stressed or uptight to one of relaxation and awareness. In addition to the meditative aspects of Tai Chi I am making important discoveries. I am aware of when my heel starts to lift. I can feel my core engage and the difference it makes. And for the first time I’m beginning to understand and feel movement in my knees and how they relate to my 6 harmonies. With the connection and engagement of the knees I feel more grounded and an ease of movement in transitions. Even though these moments have been brief they are there and I am excited to build on them.

Totals

Push ups: 1130/2990
Situps: 1130/2990
Hand form:18/61
Weapon form:11/44
KM: 31/93
AOK: 42/104
Sparring: 2/9
Blogs: 1/5
Yoga: 60min/3hr
Tai Chi: 17/57
MM:26/68