Sometimes, our space feels too small for Tai Chi. I know this well — my practice area at home is tight. Most days, I have to move while my husband watches TV in the same room.
What helps me is quieting my mind and visualizing a peaceful, spacious place. I imagine calm music in my head, and I picture myself surrounded by open space, gentle light, and a sense of calm. Even in a small room, this mental sanctuary allows me to fully enjoy my practice.
When the weather is nice, the park becomes my studio. Barefoot on green grass, with trees all around, I feel connected to the earth and free to move. The outdoors has become my Tai Chi sanctuary.
I remember when I first practiced in Palmerston — very few people knew what Tai Chi was. Strangers would stare, kids would laugh, and I sometimes hid behind trees, feeling self-conscious. But over time, I became bolder. I stopped worrying about what others thought. Eventually, people got used to seeing me move, some even asked what the practice was called, and later, a few joined in.
Now, whether I’m in a tiny space at home or under the open sky, I appreciate the gift of having a place to practice. Tai Chi isn’t about a perfect studio or lots of room — it’s about connection, presence, and making the most of the space you have.
No matter where you practice, your body, breath, and mind can still find peace, flow, and joy.