Proprioception

Proprioception is the perception or awareness of the position and movement of the body. Maintaining and improving this ability is one of the undisputed benefits of tai chi practice. This is important as we can begin to lose proprioception, also called kinaesthesia, temporarily after an injury, more permanently if we suffer a neurological disease. Aging can take a toll on proprioception as well, which can affect balance.

So we practice. That means that when you close your eyes and you step forward you know where your foot will end up. When you step your left foot straight to the left when we begin practice (into “ma bu”) your feet will align without looking down (it's not that easy!). When you stand up straight with closed eyes and try to stand on one leg (think Rooster Stands on One Leg) you will be able to keep your balance (with a little practice). And when you practice your form in a direction different from where you usually face you will be able to. 

Modern science can explain why tai chi develops and preserves this "sixth sense" as it is sometimes called. But I think the Chinese understood it when they declared that there are five--not four--directions: left, right, forward, back, and center. Our center is our center wherever we face. 

So thank you all who came for the annual Winter Stoltice party at which we practiced the first section of th form, in four different directions, in candlelight. We were practicing proprioception. The beginners class will end by 7 and be followed by our annual Winter Solstice "four directions practice": the first section done in four directions to candlelight. It was challenging, but strangely calming and contemplative. Join us next year!