Given the pressures of modern living it is difficult to learn Tai Chi as most of us are beset with responsibilities and full timetables. If you are fortunate enough to begin to learn Tai Chi from a proficient instructor, then it may help to be aware of the following common errors.

Lack of perseverance
There is a Chinese saying: ”If a person is without patience, they should not learn the art of healing. If they practice healing, it will not be medicine, it will be witchcraft”. In learning Tai Chi, the same applies - patience is required because Tai Chi is philosophical as well as scientific. It requires time for substantial study.

Tai Chi can be regarded as a fusion of Chinese philosophy and Western science. It can benefit both mind and body.  If we are learning Tai Chi but are impatient, we are wasting our time. The Chinese say, ”It is like going to the mountain full of treasure and returning empty-handed - what a pity”.

One should learn Tai Chi properly and steadily and practise consistently. After a while, practice becomes a habit, a part of your daily routine.  In addition, a profound interest in Tai Chi is developed, reinforced by the pleasure derived from psychological involvement with the movement. I urge you to practice Tai Chi earnestly because in the end you will be rewarded both physically and mentally.

Beginners are invited to join one of the Celestial Tai Chi College classes at around 20 locations throughout Melbourne and Geelong – just log onto Location & Times to find a suitable venue and time. 

The dates for beginners are as follows:
Term 1: February 1 to February 15                                    Term 2: March 22 to April 12
Term 3: May 17 to June 14                                               Term 4: July 12 to July 26
Term 5: August 30 to September 13                                  Term 6: October 25 to November 8

Free park lessons (from 10am to noon) are offered for those wanting to know more about Tai Chi before attending a formal class and these are at:

Central Park, Malvern East (corner Burke and Wattletree Roads) Melway 59 G10
March 13, May 8, June 26, August 21, October 16, December 4

Fairfield Park, Fairfield (corner Heidelberg Road and Fairfield Park Drive) Melway 30 J12
March 21, May 16, July 4, August 29, October 24, December 12

Recently the College was asked to perform Tai Chi at the official opening of the Chuan Spa at the Langham Hotel Melbourne. The Chuan Spa provides services "founded on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine", thus Tai Chi was the perfect accompaniment.

Eight instructors, including Master Chin Min, entertained guests for nearly two hours with Tao Yin, Shibashi, Lotus, Lohan and selected Tai Chi  and weapon forms. The evening was thoroughly enjoyable, if a little chilly, and was topped off nicely with a glass of bubbly and some  Asian-inspired canapes.

Suzette Hosken (Assistant Instructor -Camberwell/Doncaster)