COVID-19 & TCC-Induced Change

In my 18 years of practicing T’ai Chi Chih and 15 of teaching, I have become more flexible physically and in my thinking. I have needed to adapt and change because of situations beyond my control. TCC helped me change and respond to new realities. I was not aware of the changes until I reflected on how I responded to a current situation and compared that to how I’d responded to similar things in the past. 

This COVID-19 pandemic has caused major changes in all of our lives. What I noticed most? The quiet. Planes were grounded, car traffic was reduced and construction where I live diminished. Birds filled the air with inspiring songs. The quiet and isolation has given me time to deepen my practice and to reflect on how TCC has changed me, how I relate to the world around me. I’ve challenged myself to stretch and let go of fears, trusting that I can expand my experiences. Because of my students’ desire to stay together, I learned how to use Zoom and now teach class on Wednesday night and lead practice on Monday afternoons. I love joining Sandy and all of the teachers on Zoom, being inspired and growing in my teaching skills. 

My students have encouraged me to offer a physically distanced TCC practice at Lake Harriet. Large pinwheels mark the 6-foot distance between us so we can practice together while remaining safe. We wear masks and come together every Saturday morning. TCC practice is consistent, comforting and gives us the strength to get through these challenging times.