Open Letter to T’ai Chi Chih Friends

Topic: Correction of form for TCC Instructors

I believe most TCC teachers sincerely want to improve their form, to take off the rough edges, to become more flowing and soft, and to embody the principles of T’ai Chi. We do this through daily practice. And, to increase our awareness of our form through self-evaluation, practice in front of a mirror (or sliding glass door) and/or video tape our own movements for analysis. We also can seek correction/evaluation from our original teachers, and of course from Steve and Justin.

It’s true that everyone moves in a uniquely personal way, and so each has strengths and weaknesses in their performance of the twenty movements. The Teacher Review provides an excellent opportunity to refine our form and this refinement benefits our students as well as ourselves. In the Performing Arts such as dance, the master teacher may demonstrate some steps or sequence of movement, then stand and observe the dancers while they perform. Ongoing refinement and suggestions are given personally as the person moves (by directing them to “bring your arms in, lift your head” or whatever is needed). The sequence is repeated many times, so that the brain/body can integrate these new movement patterns to an automatic level. I feel that all TCC teachers should be given individual correction in the context of a review class, or special time (for teachers only) set aside at Conferences. I do feel that correction should not be given when teachers meet at 7 am for morning practice at Conferences. It disrupts the meditation and puts everyone on edge.

There is a time and place for correction. Every teacher should be open to refinement suggestions. Let’s do it in a review session, when it would be expected and gratefully received.

– Linda Braga
San Leandro, CA