What T’ai Chi Chih Means to Me

Student Experience

Joan Alvord (student of Jean Katus)

T’ai Chi Chih has been a gift, a healing tool for peace, health and relaxation. The movements, for me, encourage softness, continuity and centeredness.

Softness reflects in me feelings like “go with the flow,” flexibility, “gently feels good.” Softness stirs up a natural, unrushed rhythm.

Continuity causes me to focus on the full range of life – one foot, one hip, one arm, then the other side. The resting position feels the opposite of being in neutral. Although the body seems at rest, the intermingling, joining and meeting of all the energy feels powerful. I realize all the aspects of life – me as a person, me as a part of the universe.

I understand centeredness by focusing on the soles of my feet. I feel quiet and connected, part of, yet separate from the earth. In my busy life, it’s nice to let my feet remind me how basic my needs really are as I walk upon the earth.

T’ai Chi Chih has especially helped me to remember my connection with nature. Doing the movements in my porch, enjoying whatever is in my view – the snow, birds, flowers, wind, rain – has added beauty and joy on a daily basis. T’ai Chi Chih has helped me to wake up again to the gift of life.