First TCC event held in Texas draws students, teachers from TX, OK, LA, and even Monterrey, Mexico!

Event Host

Sunday, November 14, was a special day in the history of TCC in Texas! Students and teachers from Monterrey, Mexico; Lake Charles, LA; Jones, OK; Plano, Beaumont, and McKinney, TX joined local TCC practitioners. Thirty-two participants dedicated 10am to 5pm to the practice. Ed Altman did a masterful job of sharing the philosphy of T’ai Chi Chih as well as his own journey. The importance of softness and alignment were reiterated in word and in movement.

The lunch break included salads provided by local T’ai Chi Chih students. These refreshed and delighted participants who used the time to get to know each other, to integrate the learnings of the morning and to rest for the remainder of the day.

Three people, totaly new to T’ai Chi Chih, were invited by friends. It was amazing how they managed to follow the moves and benefit from the day. Two have since enrolled in a class. Several of the students present have determined to become certified teachers. Everyone left quite tired, but exhilarated with new skills for their practice.

In the few days that have elapsed since the workshop, we have heard some glowing reports. Nasha, a nurse practitioner, recently widowed, says that the day’s practice totaly transformed her life. Being one of the three “uninitiated” did not keep Nasha from letting go of a tremendous amount of tension. She reports that she even sees with greater clarity and depth of perception. Some of the cherished reminders are:

“Learned from the outside in, T’ai Chi Chih is done from the inside out.”

Put attention on shift of weight.

Move with softness and continuity.

Be aware of flexible waist and wrists.

Leaning forward or backward compromises the integrity of the movement, the head/spine alignment.

Ann [a student] thought that Ed, surrounded by a circle of students, looked like a fountain of life inviting us to join in the flow of cosmic rhythm.

If there is one wish this writer has for readers of the VFJ, it is that they go deeper into the practice of T’ai Chi Chih. Rather than taking on a variety of practices, it may be more helpful to attend or even sponsor a REVIEW in your area. It will turn the spark of TCC into a conflagration.

I cannot sufficiently thank Ed Altman for the excellent instructions and for the professional manner in which he conducted all business relating to the event. God Bless.