In Sickness & In Health

T’ai Chi Chih has been a part of my life for almost 20 years. It has guided me to experience joyful moments and navigate challenging times.

In 1998 I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). At that time a family friend suggested that I might benefit from the practice of TCC. She had seen Carmen Brocklehurst on PBS and ordered a videotape for me. Coincidentally, soon after I received it, my husband’s cousin, Sheryl Adair, told me that she was planning to become certified as a TCC teacher.

I have been practicing and learning TCC with Sheryl ever since. I also had the privilege of traveling with her to Albuquerque three times for retreats led by Carmen and had the honor to meet Justin.

This summer I had cervical spinal surgery because of complications related to Rheumatoid Arthritis. The surgery went well; however, two days after the cervical fusion I had breathing issues that required intubation and spent six days in the Intensive Care Unit and 18 days in the hospital.

After the breathing tube was removed, tests indicated that I was aspirating into my lungs when I swallowed liquids and solids. I was fed intravenously until a feeding tube was inserted into my stomach. I was not allowed to drink liquids or eat solid foods for 25 days. This was one of the most difficult experiences I have ever endured.

While in the hospital, I practiced TCC mentally as much as I could. Each time I felt I couldn’t take one more minute of this challenge, I kept my attention in the soles of my feet. Practicing TCC helped me be strong, to find a positive place to focus my energy.

TCC can be a valuable practice for creating a place of comfort in difficult times, be they physical or emotional challenges. It can also be there for us in good health, circulating and balancing positive energy. TCC can help support us in difficult circumstances and illuminate the joyfulness within and around each of us. I am thankful for the gift of TCC and for the many ways it has influenced my life.

fall

crisp air

coming fast

feel it, see it 

deny it yet

know it

darn

Sheryl Adair, Atlanta, Georgia