This was a week of “a-has” for some of my Tai Chi students. One woman, who has been in my classes about three years told me she really is feeling the energy move through her body in a relaxed way, right from the first two moves, Preparation and Beginning. “I knew my energy has been moving in previous classes, but I really felt it in class today! I felt it right away.” Another student, having been on vacation in Great Britain for over two weeks, walked in saying she wasn’t sure how much she would remember. After class, she told me, “I did o.k.. I remembered much more than I thought I would. It’s good and I’m glad to be back.” Her body remembered even though her mind had doubts. Another student, back after a 5000 mile driving trip said she really wanted to move her Qi through Tai Chi, feel the energy with others moving together through relaxed, flowing movements.

After class last night two students approached me, saying, “we want to thank you. Not only do we feel more relaxed and calm, this class hit deeply, in a personal, spiritual way.”

It’s not me; it’s students connecting with their internal energy, guiding it in specific ways — mindful, relaxed, with attention to proper alignment. I am a catalyst, a guide for students to find a pathway to best possible health, using Tai Chi and QiGong movements as our vehicle.

Each of these students is committed, makes healthy practices a priority, shows up. Showing up – that’s the key. Showing up even on days when it’s hard to get out the door, when energy might be low, when the to-do list is long. Showing up can be the beginning of change, can be the path towards improved balance, in our bodies and in the way we live.

All these students show up. How do you show up for yourself?