In the Ying Yang doctrine, everything has two opposing energies or principles. The Ying Yang doctrine could also apply to your Tai chi practice.  Do you honor the true essence of this powerful discipline or is your practice influenced by limited beliefs and judgments?

For many Tai Chi followers, this discipline is considered a "way of life".  Understanding that not all students will feel this way, it is important to recognize that the essence of this ancient tradition is to bring "balance" into our life.    

Consider the following recommendations of the do's and don'ts while practicing Tai Chi:

1. Do not compare yourself with anyone else
   Your Tai Chi practice is very personal.  Concentrate your attention on your own needs and accomplishments.  There is a uniqueness about you and no one is exactly like you.  You will always find someone who is more flexible, has sharper memory, moves more gracefully, practices more than you, etc.  Comparing yourself with others and wanting to be like others, would take away the essence of your practice, which is to balance your mind, body and spirit.
2. Do not get frustrated with your practice
   Many students become frustrated when they can't remember all the steps of the form or the sequence of steps.  Eventually many of them stop practicing because of their frustration.  Remember again the "reason" you are practicing Tai Chi.  If it is to bring balance to your life, frustration brings the opposite experience.  What will help you to learn the form easier and faster?  Perhaps is to clear your mind beforehand, or to practice more frequently, or to use a Tai Chi DVD while you practice at home or to have a private lesson with your instructor.
3. Do not take Tai Chi as a competitive practice
   If you are practicing any sports such as martial arts, the sense of competition is necessary.  While you practice Tai Chi, the sense of balance is necessary.  Unless you are participating in a Tai Chi competition, leave aside any notion of contest.  Notice the role your "ego" plays.  Do you want to show others you are better than they are?  Do you have the idea that to succeed you have to compete?  Are you looking for approval and recognition?  If your expectations come from your ego, simply bring your attention to the essence of Tai Chi and honor it.
4. Do not take Tai Chi mainly as a physical exercise
   While the practice of Tai Chi improves the chi or energy flow in your body enhancing your flexibility and movement, Tai Chi is more than a physical exercise.  The practice of Tai Chi as the form is one aspect of what is to cultivate a healthy and balanced chi.  To practice Tai Chi in its essence is to improve your state of well-being by bring balance to your feelings, thoughts, intentions, words and actions.
5. Do not take Tai Chi as a religious practice or dogma
   The ancient Chinese were searching for the highest form of life.  They achieved their goal by realizing and teaching that we are a whole being.  This unified philosophy of life was about bringing balance to the body, mind and spirit.  Western civilizations separated body from mind and thought spiritual practices only in terms of religion.  The practice of Tai Chi develops your spiritual growth without institutionalizing any personal beliefs and practices.

A word of caution: Not all exercises are suitable for everyone.  This or any other exercise program may result in injury.  To reduce the risk of injury, never force or strain.  Consult your physician before starting this or any other exercise program.

Mariscela Alvarez is certified to instruct the Tai Chi White Dragon Short Form, Sun Short Form and Chi Kung exercises.  Mariscela is offering a FREE Tai Chi and Chi Kung class on Saturday, December 5, 2009 in Auburn.  Ongoing classes will start on Dec. 10 and 12.  For more information about classes and DVDs, visit her at www.fyspirit.com or call (530) 863-0003.