Jean asks:

I've started your program so I can find a quiet space inside myself. Do you have any thoughts about this?

Stephanie answers:

Hi Jean,

Tai Chi for Enlighteners creates physical balance and also gifts the practitioner with an inward journey that heals the soul. This unfolding is similar to Dorothy’s adventures in the Wizard of Oz. And like the Yellow Brick Road, tai chi’s path is windy as it traverses through a new environment and unfamiliar territory.

Most of my students began Tai Chi for Enlighteners to improve their physical realm; by gently stretching muscles, strengthening bodies, enhancing balance, improving memory, or learning to walk with confidence. However on the journey they discover other challenges to overcome when encountering their “inward” Scarecrow, Tin Man, Lion and Wizard.

The Scarecrow wanted a brain. As the student learns tai chi the body is being taught novel ways to move. The brain needs to be totally focused and is “exercised” as new memory is created. And there’s this left / right balancing act that positively affect both hemispheres and creates mental clarity.

The Tin Man first needed to be oiled before he could tell Dorothy he desired a heart. Tai chi first “oils” every muscle and ligament in the body. The arms and hands are held higher than the heart so the heart muscle is gently strengthened as it pumps blood to the elevated limbs. The heart is described as being the center of one’s emotions. Through the movement of inner “chi” (life force) energy the student is more in touch with their emotional state and can heal the wounds of past transgressions.

The Lion yearned to have courage. Courage is the first step on becoming a spiritual warrior. After a few months of being “one” with the movements, the mind has been focused on watching and correcting the body. Once the body understands and flows through the steps the mind is free to meditate. Tai chi is aptly described as moving meditation. And this is how spiritual balance occurs with tai chi.

Dorothy desired to GO HOME. This is the essential yet hidden reason to learn tai chi. It takes one on an inner journey that can release what I call “glommers”.  Glommers are words, attitudes, actions that have attached to one’s true nature from past interactions with family members, friends, teachers, etc. It’s only when we have the courage, strength and insight to release these glommers that we can find our way back HOME to ourselves. To be light enough to click our heels and create our own reality.

I wish you an enlightening experience as you enter Tai Chi Land.

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