Impressions during a visit to Folsom

My gratitude to Judy Tretheway and to Kathy Grassel who have been teaching T’ai Chi Chih within the prison system for the past eight years… and to all the other TCC teachers who are bringing this simple form of spiritual practice into other institutions throughout the U.S. and Canada.

I was once again blessed with the opportunity to accompany Judy to her three TCC classes in B-Yard, a section of New Folsom prison. I was deeply impressed by the sincerity of the men who came to the classes, which began in November. It always amazes me “who shows up” at my classes or retreats knowing that each person is there for a reason – most of the time unbeknownst to any of us – outside of simply being drawn by the Chi, because it is time.

We moved in a circle, doing most of the first 10 movements. I told them that although each of us is an individual, the energy unites us as we move, so we try to let go and move as one. One inmate reflected later that the Chapel and learning/practicing TCC is the only place where all divisions cease. On the Yard there are groups and gangs, divided by race and religion. Doing TCC brings unity.

The Gift of Teaching:

How blessed we are to be a part of it all – to be able to give others with the opportunity to circulate and balance the Chi.

As we teach TCC, we notice the unification of individuals, the synchronization of legs and arms creating oneness.

As we encourage softness and continuity, we see wrist tension melt away.

As we notice a break through happening, we feel gratitude for the shifts both in ourselves and in our students.

To one group of men my final words were: We never practice for ourselves alone, nor can we call it “my practice.” Chi that is balanced and flowing has an effect on people in the room, beyond the concrete walls and electrified fences. It flows far beyond to affect our world.

To TCC Teachers: In what ways have you been changed and deepened as a TCC teacher? You are invited to continue this discussion with teachers in your local area.