Helpful Tai Chi Tips from Mark

Submitted by Ambarish Keenan on Fri, 15/05/2009 - 7:38am.
Tai Chi: finding time for something just for you.

Here are my tips to help make Tai Chi a fun and regular part of your life:

1) Pick a time that suits you. Just 15 minutes that is yours alone every day. For many of us the best time is first thing in the morning but other good times are lunch time, after work or last thing at night. 15 minutes are not much - about the same time as a cup of coffee. For those 15 minutes forget about everything except your Tai Chi, you can solve the world's problems after you finish.
2) Find somewhere where you can practice. Back gardens, parks, living rooms, kitchens or bedrooms are good places. Somewhere with as much space, light and fresh air as possible is best. Don't worry if you only have a small space, just reposition yourself when you need to.
3) Try and practice in the same place at the same time everyday. After a while your energy will harmonize with the place and you will find it increasingly easy to relax in your place at your time.
4) If you miss your time then don't worry about it - just do your 15 minutes Tai Chi as soon as you can. If you are away/travelling then don't worry just do your 15 minutes wherever you can.
5) Don't worry or give up if/when you miss a day. This can and does happen to everyone. Tomorrow is a new day so wake up, smile and practice. Let go of past failures, they are meaningless. If you want to do your Tai Chi today then you will.
6) When you practice be happy and proud of yourself. You don't have to do it perfectly. If you can't remember parts or your mind won't settle then that is fine, just keep going. Ask your teacher about it when you can. Do what you can and relax and enjoy the feeling of doing something for you. This is your time and space and you body, mind and spirit are free to enjoy it.
7) Smile as you do your Tai Chi and everything will feel better.

And enjoy, Mark from Lotus Yoga

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