Tai Chi in the summer is the best — outside by the trees, hearing the birds, feeling the uneven earth and soft grass, moving Qi with nature.

The earth is calling to us, giving us the energy that moves us and sustains life. Think of all the Qi the earth provides, the air, water, food that provide us life every day. Tai Chi helps us focus on communing with the earth and relating with nature. A prime example and image we use is the tree. We keep our knees soft so our weight can gently sink through the legs and into the earth. We establish a dynamic connection with the earth, developing strong roots like the trees. Then we can bring that earth energy to nourish and refresh us. Our energy, through Tai Chi moves, is gentle, flowing, slow and mindful.

As we take a short late summer break from formal classes, we are encouraged to go outside, be barefoot in the grass, feel the earth under our feet and flow through the calm and energizing moves of Tai Chi. Regardless of style, place or length of time we’ve practiced, we can enjoy this special experience of not only appreciating nature, but literally being in tune and part of it.

Whether Tai Chi or yoga or meditation or walking or swimming, take some time this month to be outside and a true partner with nature.