Student Sharing

As I read from The Vital Force weekly, my students listen to articles from people of all ages from all over the world who practice T’ai Chi Chih and describe the benefits they receive. This month I asked my students, some of whom have practiced for two years, to share the same.

“You class has proven to be a blessing. My original intent was to accompany my sister who suffers from Parkinson’s. Her doctor recommended the class, and I tagged along. Now even if she misses a class, I still attend and look forward to it.

I was struggling at my new church because they stand and sing for about 15 minutes prior to the service. I would shift from one leg to the other and get achy from standing that long. One Sunday morning instead of shifting and rocking I thought about the TCC stance. Now on Sundays my heels are about an inch or two apart and my knees are slightly bent; I can stand easily for all the songs and not even think about being uncomfortable. I also recently painted a wall in my bedroom and getting up and down the ladder, which used to cause concern and concentration, became an easy climb.”

– Sandra Johnson, Simpsonville, SC

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“I began taking TCC because I have Parkinson’s. I would feel unstable with the back-and-forth and side-to-side movements, catching myself to regain equilibrium. Our instructor stressed the importance of doing what’s right for you. That was welcomed advice since I couldn’t always allow my heels or toes to lift. Little by little, that changed. My balance notably improved.

One characteristic of Parkinson’s is muscle rigidity. Mine is not severe, but I have difficulty with movements that involve holding my arms at shoulder height (like Around the Platter and the pose). But I no longer have difficulty with those!

The benefits discovered far exceeded those related to Parkinson’s, though. The soft fluidity provides a time of relaxation and beauty. While I focus on myself during practice, I sometimes glance around to see a beautiful, choreographed dance that exemplifies Joy through Movement.”

– Kathy Neely, Simpsonville, SC