Students Speak (February 2025, Part 2)

Editor’s Note: Longtime T’ai Chi Chih teacher Donna McElhose asked her current students to write a note to future students of TCC.

Dear Future TCC Student,

Welcome to T’ai Chi Chih (TCC) Joy thru Movement. I hope you will gain as much pleasure and benefit from practicing this form as I have. You will also enjoy being with your fellow students — you all also teach each other. Before beginning TCC, my vision of T’ai Chi came from TV and movies where a martial artist flew through the air and fought an evil enemy. Even so, at the same time it was graceful, and I had always wanted to do something graceful. But after a few attempts at the martial art forms of T’ai Chi, I knew I wanted a simpler, more meditative type of movement. When I saw an offering of TCC in the College of Lake County class schedule that said it was a soft and easy to learn form, I signed up. Thirteen years later, TCC is part of who I am and what I do. Benefits have included better balance, more flexibility, and more importantly, an increased ability to focus, relax, and become more peaceful. — Nancy L.

Dear Future TCC Student,

So, you are interested in T’ai Chi Chih (TCC), huh? For me, it was and still is, a life-changing event. Let me tell you about that, okay? The first semester that I took it, TCC was done standing. I thought that was all that there was. There were many things going on. The biggest challenge was physically being able to keep up. I have bad knees. I would wear braces, but it was still very painful. Our instructor Donna said that in the Fall semester, they were offering a seated class. That hit me in a good way! So, future student, know that TCC can be done seated or standing. But no matter which path you choose, you have to commit. Practice, practice, and yes, practice. Even 10 minutes a day will pay dividends. You will see. By doing TCC seated, I am more in tune with the arm movements. Entering the meditative state much easier. Donna is very knowledgeable about the material and gifted in helping people see what they need. I am not sure how long she has been teaching, but I would say a while, ya know? Best of luck on your journey. — Gerri S.

Dear Future TCC Student,

The seated description made me think this was a class for seniors. Since I’m still young, it brought insecurities — of people looking into the class, watching me, and making fun of me. I also wondered how the movements could make more of a difference than stretching. After my first class another fear was realized: I was the only male. Thankfully, I stuck with the course and didn’t let my fears affect me. I am beset by a number of injuries, especially ligament problems in my ankles and wrists. The gentle movements actually helped relieve the pain and discomfort. I have even felt energy in some movements which I never thought I would. Donna is very patient and will go out of her way to help you understand what you are doing and why. If you can look past your preconceptions and give this class a try, I am sure you will find benefits and realize it was a good use of your time. — S.