Practicing Tai Chi with Music...or not.

At Body Balance Academy, we often listen to relaxing and contemplative music as a quiet background to our Qi Gong and Tai Chi practice in weekday classes. This music comes from several sources including instructor and student playlists. 

Bill Douglass

Kit Bailey

Each second Saturday of the month, at Tai Chi with Tea, we enjoy the spontaneous serendipity of practice with live music performed by Bill Douglass (bass and flutes) and Kit Bailey (percussion).  This wonderful event is open to the public. Plan to bring your family and friends--anyone you think might be interested in a meditative experience of "chi" with these world class jazz musicians to help enhance the experience. The next opportunity for this experience is Saturday August 13th at 10:00am at the Body Balance Studio.

Snatam Kaur

During Yoga class with Summer Lujan, we often listen to the Gurumukhi chanting of Snatam Kaur. You can learn more about her musical voyage online where you can listen to and download music.

Some folks (including Liu Shih Fu during a talk with the Lotus Group earlier this year) encouraged us to practice without music, too.  To listen within and hear the music of our hearts. To hear the music of nature as we practice outside.  The Yuba River makes a terrific soundtrack for Qi Gong or Tai Chi.

As I practice and meditate on my deck in the morning, an owl calling through the forest draws my attention back to the breath. My cat stretches and yawns and draws near. The wind in the cedar trees brings a lovely perfume.

What kinds of sounds enhance your practice? Do you prefer music or quiet? If you enjoy any particular playlist, consider bringing it to share with other students at Body Balance.  Above all, let your ears open to the possibilities.