Teacher candidate reflects on the training process

I was home for a few days when I began to reflect on how I was changed by the accreditation week in New Jersey. Even as I arrived at the Toronto airport, I was feeling more relaxed and emptied than before, not “so full of myself”, more able to respond to and enjoy the people and situations I encountered, to do so with more openness and less expectation.

I am enjoying my TCC practice now more than ever. I am sure this is a common experience with people going through this process, because as corrections are made in our movements, they become easier and more fun to do.

The friendships and camaraderie created during the week will continue to enrich my life. I look forward to being with all my fellow graduates in New Jersey next summer and to the opportunity to meet many more T’ai Chi Chih teachers. A big thank you to Ed and Noel Altman for their excellent leadership, and to Sister Antonia Cooper for her service to all of us by organizing the week so well and taking care of all of us before and while we were there. Also, the auditors made such valuable contributions to our practice and understanding and were just great to be around.

Though I have not set up any classes yet, I have had a chance to teach a few moves to people informally and to teach “Push-Pull” and “Pulling in the Energy” to one of Sister Kay Morrell’s classes. So far, we are the only two teachers in Toronto. She has been teaching consistently for five years at St. Joseph’s Health Center and is a meticulous teacher, for which I am grateful.

I’ve noticed many carryovers from T’ai Chi Chih into my daily life: softening my knees when I’m doing dishes or waiting for the bus, not letting my mind get ahead of my actions so much of the time, paying attention to the soles of my feet when I’m walking to the corner store, etc. Thanks to Justin and all the teachers (including myself) for contributing to my growing awareness.

– Nancy Vermond