Get the Routine Out of Your TCC Routine

Those who practice T’ai Chi Chih on a daily basis certainly know of the accumulative effects in health and enlightenment, yet however conscientious we are about maintaining regularity of practice, we occasionally allow our performance of TCC to become routine. Webster’s Dictionary defines routine as “a habitual or mechanical performance of an established procedure”. I’m sure we can all relate to this description regarding our practice of TCC. Who has not experienced doing TCC movements with “muscle memory” while mentally engaged in abstract thought, anticipating a future event or drifting down memory lane? We have all caught ourselves doing this from time to time, and it is quite natural.

To help ward off these periods of mechanical T’ai Chi Chih (non-Zen moments), I would like to suggest a change of pace; an intentional deviation from our accustomed approach to practicing TCC, to help ensure freshness and attentiveness. An alternative practice schedule implemented now and then (perhaps once a week), can dispel the absent-minded routine feelings that are encountered with all disciplines. A useful schedule might be:

1. Arise from sleep one hour earlier than usual.

2. Do some light stretching and bending exercises to awaken the body and throw off mental sluggishness. If you are familiar with basic Hatha Yoga I would recommend these postures in succession: Sun Salutation; 3/4 Shoulder Stand; Cobra; Spinal Twist; Corpse.

3. Perform “Joyous Breath” 9 times.

4. Practice T’ai Chi Chih more slowly than usual, using all 20 movements, perhaps extending your accustomed number of repetitions.

5. Following the “Cosmic Consciousness Pose” practice the “Great Circle Meditation” as described in the TCC text, for 10 minutes or so. Then be still, relaxed, and open to the after effects momentum that result from your intentional breathing and concentration. Simply remain alert and inwardly poised, allowing meditation to be spontaneous.

6. After meditation take time to feel fully integrated and grounded, before plunging into daily activities. Affirm wellness for yourself on all levels and feel happy. Perhaps you will want to conclude by singing Justin’s song, “Healing With Joy”.

I hope that these ideas are helpful to you, and anytime you’d like to share personal experiences about teaching or otherwise, regarding your involvement with T’ai Chi Chih, please write.

– Steve Ridley
Denver, CO