Breaking New Ground

T’ai Chi Chih! is growing consistently in Fargo. One of the pointers that Steve Ridley shared with me after becoming certified to teach is to begin classes in T’ai Chi Chih right away and to continue to have classes. I’m grateful I heeded that advice. Initially I felt insecure with teaching but I have learned to effectively execute the directions given me at TCC Certification, as I began to relax sharing T’ai Chi Chih with others. Basically, flowing with the Chi and forgetting about ME has been the Key!

It has been exciting to see T’ai Chi Chih integrating into Fargo, North Dakota. The Geriatric Project that began at Villa Maria Nursing Home is in full flow–I have contracted for 10 weeks of teaching, twice per week. The results are amazing! The day room that is filled with up to 60 residents, some on couches, some in wheelchairs, the rest standing becomes quiet. The Staff, residents, children from the daycare in the basement, family members, all participate. The community and communication that results is phenomenal. It is a healing experience for me to be within this energy field.

The facility liaison nurse and I had planned to do a research project. The results? As soon as we all do the TCC no one cares about blood pressure readings or respirations or other measurable variants. People are always yawning. Some even fall asleep during the movements, then awaken and pick right up again! It is joyful! Reports verbally have been, “My shoulder doesn’t ache like it used to!”, “I can do this!”, “This could help a person relax.” and “I’m less tense in my arms.”

Staff has noted increased looseness in the upper torso area of several of the very rigid participants. Staff has also commented that there is no screaming from the patients during this time and it is the quietest the dayroom has ever been!

Another opportunity for teaching T’ai Chi Chih is incorporating it into day-long professional conventions. The North Dakota Nurses’ Association Annual Convention was held in Fargo. Our topic was Wellness. T’ai Chi Chih was placed on the agenda. I led the nurses in 15-20 minutes of TCC each day and it was powerful! 250 nurses doing Bass Drum at once, resounded with quiet, gentle energy. The executive director of the State of North Dakota conveyed in her thanks that she felt TCC contributed to the healing and productivity accomplished at the Convention. Nurses loved the movements. I have had another full class since the convention and Jean Katus has gotten calls from nurses in her area of the State who wanted to learn T’ai Chi Chih!

I presented T’ai Chi Chih at Psychiatric Grand Rounds with positive results. Another full class, this time of professionals from all areas–social work, internal medicine, psychiatry, occupational therapy, nursing, pharmacy…and they love it!

T’ai Chi Chih is on the cutting edge. Our planet is ready for integration and channels are opening. I’m ever so grateful for Justin’s receptivity and willingness to share what he has been gifted to receive. Thanks, Justin, for this movement that allows humanity to touch the core of self and in turn, each other. Happy Birthday every day Justin Stone!!