John’s Tai-Blog @ Camp Tai ChiTai Chi and anything I can relate to Tai Chi … like life

Is tai chi exhibitionism just plain wrong?

I came across a blog post today call “A letter from a Tai Chi Exhibitionist”. Since I practice tai chi regularly, I found this point of view to be rather odd, even though we Americans can be a self conscious bunch.

At first I thought I was reading about someone doing tai chi nude in a public park. Which I do think rather strange. But no, it was just someone practicing tai chi in the open space of a public park. In China and many other countries this is thought to be normal behavior since tai chi practice requires a good deal of space.

Because we can be so self conscious I’ve come up with a beginner’s routine that can be practiced in a very limited space. I use this routine regularly when traveling and don’t have the time to find an open space. Other wise I find it very energizing to practice on the beach, in a park or other appropriate public spaces.

It seems odd to me that a couple of people throwing a Frisbee, throwing a ball, or some other form of exercise is considered acceptable by this person but that tai chi is not an acceptable exercise for a public venue. I wonder just how narrow minded we can be at times.

I am fortunate enough to have a large room in my home where I can practice tai chi without offending anyone. Yet on outings with my school people seem mesmerized by our public exhibitions and sometimes even ask to join in. Maybe we’re all just exhibitionists at heart ;o).

If you’d like to have a tai chi routine that can be done in your living room, give this a try by clicking here - http://www.beginningtaichi.net/taichivideo.html

On the other hand if you, like me, are a bit of an exhibitionist (AKA: a ham), find your nearest public park and give ‘em a show!

If you’d like to read the blog where this letter appeared click here - http://www.martialdevelopment.com/blog/seattle-tai-chi-exhibitionist/. I read this blog regualarly and there is some good information here.

Bye for now.