Qi Qong and Tai Chi

It has been a while since I blogged. Since my last entry I have given up work to concentrate on my recovery, both mental and physical.

I started doing Qi Qong and Tai Chi last September because I read somewhere that it helped with balance – something I very much need. I found a friendly group of mainly 50 somethings doing these slow Chinese exercises. I kept going for the chat and company as much as the exercises. But recently, the teacher has changed the format so there is an hour of Qi Qong followed by an hour of Tai Chi – this has made a considerable difference. I almost bounce out of bed the day after my session. I am now thinking about how I might gain some strength to do the long hiking trails that I dreamed of doing whilst I was completing my PhD – this might involve a personal trainer or gym membership – as well as continuing with my Qi Qong and Tai Chi.

I am crap at Tai Chi, failing to remember the basic moves and their sequence. I enjoy doing the complete short form, supported by more proficient students who surround me in a grid. After a year, I am still in the beginners group and the volunteers trying to teach me are embarrassed by my evident failure. I notice the lack of eye contact and that other students get more attention and advice. I did think of complaining – but I am weary of other people’s embarrassment (especially from the able bodied) and their lack of attention to me does not stop me trying to follow them. I acknowledge my sadness but that is all. I have recently managed to access the company’s community website which has some short videos – I am starting to follow the video sessions to improve my proficiency and to continue to strengthen my balance.

I noticed that when I moved my head slightly when I was sketching – head up to look at the view/object/person, then head down to look at the drawing – and repeated movements like this caused me to vomit. I have thrown up in most of the major museums in London. I was upset when I realised what was causing this vomiting as I thought it would bring to an end my ability to sketch. However, the classes are helping to reduce my sickness – I will not allow this illness to stop me doing what I love. I hope all this will contribute to my ability to hike and paint in the countryside.