Note: This post was originally published elsewhere on April 26, 2025
Today, Saturday, April 26 marks World Tai Chi and Qigong Day. This year, I am marking 21 years since I first started practicing tai chi and in May I will be marking 10 years of practicing Chen style. Over the past 5 years I have also began to study qigong more deeply.
Tai chi has changed my life for the better in so many ways. I would like to highlight a few today and then offer some actions you can take if any of this speaks to you.
Taijiquan has increased my physical literacy/somatic vocabulary. By practicing taijiquan, I have been able to learn other choreographed movements like dance steps more quickly and reliably than before. I have also been able to be more fluent in non-verbal communication, and aware of the relationships between my body, other bodies and the spaces in which we interact.
Taijiquan has increased my gross and fine motor coordination. Dyspraxia has most affected me in the area of fine motor skills and tai chi straight sword (jian) has been particularly helpful in increasing my hand strength and dexterity. I have recently begun learning the New Frame (xinjia) of the bare-handed routine which also has more movements beneficial in this area.
Taijiquan has provided a strong foundation upon which to build. Whether I’m dancing, stacking chairs, or engaging in a practice like postural yoga, I am mindful of taijiquan principles and ways of movement and holding the body which enable me to recognize and prevent potential for injury.
My taijiquan practice is one of the most fundamental practices my life has revolved around. I practice every day – often doing stretches and foundational exercises in the morning and aiming to do some forms practice in the afternoon or evening. Taijiquan has enhanced and enriched my physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual life and is a key life-giving and life-affirming discipline. I love it immensely and firmly believe in its potential to help others as well.
If any of this has spoken to or inspired you in some way, consider learning more.
The Dreamers' Corner 