Today, I felt inspired to share something deeply personal. While practicing Tai Chi with focused intention, my mind was unexpectedly flooded with memories—moments of negativity imposed on me by others, whether consciously or not. Being in the presence of such energy is never easy, and yet, it served as a profound reminder.
For the first time, I approached my training with a purposeful mindset, allowing all that negativity to dissipate. I immersed myself in each movement, grounding myself to rise with intention. As my arms flowed upward, I felt a beautiful harmony of energy—the chi—and the subtle interplay of yin and yang. It was as if I had unlocked an inner treasure, and in that moment, my heart was filled with gratitude.
This experience brought me back to the essence of Tai Chi. Whether in this art or any aspect of life, when we lose sight of its true purpose, we risk disconnecting from its roots. I was reminded of a Lao Tzu quote on mastering the self, and it resonated deeply with my journey toward spiritual growth. It emphasized that Tai Chi, while a martial art, holds a value far beyond technique—it’s about honoring the practice, connecting with others, and nurturing our inner selves.
My first instructor once said I must have practiced Tai Chi in a past life. Whether or not that’s true doesn’t matter, as I have no memory of it. What matters is how training often feels like coming home—a reunion with my body and spirit, a reconnection with my true self.
Recently, I spent time in the North, where life seemed to flow with remarkable ease—almost as if I had stepped into a promised land. In that peaceful environment, I discovered the stillness I needed to truly listen to my soul. It was there that I found the healing and clarity essential for growth. The people around me, whether knowingly or not, respected my boundaries, giving me the space I needed to reflect. For now, I’ve chosen to step back from attending classes. I believe that rushing forward without mastering the fundamentals can hinder us from experiencing the profound healing and wisdom that the journey offers.
This reflection has reinforced why visualization and understanding the essence of a form are so important. They guide the natural flow of our thoughts and movements. It’s like the lesson of the pine tree—when we stop forcing and simply allow things to unfold (a truth I once resisted but now embrace), everything begins to align with ease.
As I glanced at the clock, it read 11:11. In that quiet moment, a wave of love and gratitude swept over me, reminding me that I am being guided. I felt deeply reassured by this divine connection, and my heart was full.