Recently, someone asked me what style of Tai Chi I teach and whether I had formal training.
It was a fair question, but I noticed something inside me react. For a moment, I felt a little irritated — as if I had to prove that what I do is real.
Then I realized something important: Tai Chi is no longer just something I practice. It has become part of who I am.
Over the years, Tai Chi has shaped how I move, how I breathe, and how I respond to challenges. It has taught me patience, softness, and steadiness.
My training has included both in-person study and online certification. I traveled long distances to attend classes and workshops because I wanted to deepen my understanding and experience Tai Chi directly from teachers.
“One day, I hope to take this even further — to study in person with a Tai Chi Master in Wudang, China. I’m planning this as a gift to myself for my 60th birthday — a celebration of lifelong learning and love for the practice.”
Instead of reacting defensively, I answered calmly and honestly. I explained that I practice and teach Sun style Tai Chi, and that my approach focuses on gentle movement, relaxation, and wellbeing rather than martial arts training.
Afterward, the person replied with encouragement and kind words. It reminded me that not every question is a challenge. Sometimes people are simply curious.
Tai Chi has deep roots as a martial art, and many practitioners dedicate their lives to studying its traditional forms and applications. I respect that tradition.
My own path has been different. I teach Tai Chi as a practice for health, balance, and peaceful movement — especially for adults who want to stay active and strong as they age.
For me, Tai Chi is not about proving anything. It is about practicing. It is about showing up day after day and caring for the body with patience and kindness.
And perhaps that is one of the quiet lessons Tai Chi offers: when we stay centered, we can respond with calm instead of reacting with tension. Little by little, the practice becomes part of who we are. And that may be the deepest training of all.