TCC Comes To Rockland, New York

It was the summer of 2012 when I discovered the beauty and power of T’ai Chi Chih. As a beginner, I was intrigued by the fluid movements and natural rhythm. I dedicated the next four years to immersing myself in the study of TCC. Given the unavailability of teachers in Rockland County, New York, I traveled to New Jersey and beyond to learn and practice. After studying and practicing TCC, I proudly became an accredited instructor in 2015.

I was eager to introduce TCC in Rockland County, with a population of more than 350,000 residents. However, it was readily apparent that this would be a lofty task, introducing and sustaining the community’s interest in TCC. Just when I thought I had exhausted all avenues, I received a call from the director of an adult learning center, requesting a meeting. A student who’d attended one of my free demonstrations was impressed with the movements and the feeling of peace and renewal. The student advocated for the program with the director. I am proud to share and teach TCC in the Rockland community.

Through my teaching I have met many wonderful students. Here are some of their stories:

~ Student Testimonial by Molly Black:

I decided to take TCC because I’m 59 years old and was once in great physical shape. I owned/show jumped my horse, fenced, took Taekwondo. I loved to ice skate, roller skate and go on mild amusement park rides. 

Several years ago, I fell off of a porch and landed on the left side of my head, on a driveway. I was unconscious for an uncertain amount of time, and upon awakening was temporarily paralyzed. After six months at Kessler, two C-spine surgeries, physical therapy, occupational therapy and other modalities, my life drastically changed.

I am now held together with metal plates and screws in the front and back of my neck. I look great on the outside but many functions we take for granted internally no longer work for me. My brain is damaged and without medication I overflow with depression, rage and frustration. 

I needed an activity to help my mind focus on calm. I needed an activity to regain physical balance and find inner balance. An activity to work my entire body in a constant and fluid motion.

I joined TCC with trepidation as I do now with most things. At first, I was stiff. I constantly felt my ankles and knees. Oreann is soft-spoken, knowledgeable and welcoming; her presence helped me feel more comfortable with each passing week. Her mantra of positive affirmations remained with me well beyond the class. 

After eight weeks you will know how to do the movements but with practice and dedication you will begin to experience the “why” of the movements. If you can let yourself go slowly and fully, the energy we have within is released and moves freely within your body without opposition. I recommend taking TCC to everyone. 

~ Student Testimonial by Susan & Alan:

My wife and I truly enjoyed the TCC class with Oreann, an excellent teacher who knows her subject well and makes it a fun experience at the same time. The TCC movements helped us a lot with relaxation, balance and mindfulness. Classes also helped my wife better manage a medical condition.

~ Student Testimonial by Laina Leckie:

From the first moment that I saw the TCC movements in my first class with Oreann, I knew I had found the perfect form of meditation. Having been told by my family that I rocked and often sang in my crib as a child to self-soothe, the flowing and repetitive movements of TCC resonated deep within me. I immediately felt I was home. The motions help me feel connected to my body and the energy around me very quickly, contrary to the slow process of calming my mind during sitting meditation. Our intermediate class has presented another level of powerful connection – with others, as we move in a beautiful circle, side-to-side, in and out. We are wonderfully led by Oreann, our perfect spiritual guide. I am so grateful. I move in the world in a calmer, more deliberate way because of TCC.