College Students’ Experiences

Editor’s Note: These reflections about T’ai Chi Chih by April Leffler’s college students are a continuation of others published in the November 2016 issue, where you will find the backstory.

By Nav K.

Week 8: Although I may not practice regularly, one of the greatest takeaways is that we become trapped within our heads and become more stressed than need be. In the end, it is about perspective and measures we take to get ‘out of our heads’ and control this stress.

Week 9: When working on my social media paper I considered the great irony that TCC emphasizes being in the present but in the long run has great implications for one’s future. If one manages to ground himself properly and clear his head while practicing TCC, he is more ready to take on the responsibilities affecting his future.

Week 11: This week has been highly stressful and it has become increasingly difficult to ground myself. So I deliberately took time to step away from activities and work – taking a deep breath, grounding and practicing movements. Admittedly, I felt a bit silly and wasn’t sure if TCC would help my stress levels. Amazingly, I felt less stressed after 10 minutes of practice.

Week 12: It is hard to believe our TCC class is almost done. I will use the valuable information learned to consistently complement my regular meditation routine. I am hoping to reap its benefits, including overall mental and physical balance.

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By Rebecca R.

March 24: Writing the social media paper really taught me a lot about TCC, which has a lot of health benefits, including helping you lose weight (which was the most shocking to me). Because TCC is so calming, it didn’t cross my mind that it could also help you lose weight.

April 7: This has again been a very busy week. As the semester comes to an end, I have practiced more movements to fill up the tank, so that I am ready to fight to the end of the semester. I plan to continue practicing.

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By Samantha H.

Week 1: I decided it would help my schoolwork to meditate more on my own time.

Week 2: When practicing the movements, I love that I can feel the energy in my hands very intensely.

Week 4: If I don’t come to TCC one week, I can definitely tell the difference in my stress levels that week.

Week 5: I hope one day to find something I am as passionate about as you [April Leffler] are about TCC.