There are books and teachers who advise that you should only practice tai chi in the most optimal conditions, or you can harm your qi energy. These folks believe that you should be in the most natural setting, away from any sources of pollution, noise or distraction. They even suggest that an elevated area or mountaintop is ideal, since in Chinese history, Taoist adepts would leave society to become hermits in the mountains where they could receive the best energy from nature and experience no distractions of worldly concerns.
Other people suggest that you can practice tai chi anywhere, anyplace, anytime. In fact, if you are in a cramped condition, then all you need to do is stop, move back a bit and continue on. In their opinion, nothing should prevent you.
My suggestion as an author falls somewhat more to the latter choice, but with certain caveats.
If you always look for the most ideal spot, you will almost always never find it unless you work at home and live in the countryside. In that case, you are truly blessed! But the majority of people live in more urbanized areas or are restricted in their schedule and lifestyle. If you believe that you are absorbing "bad" energy, then you are fixated on that thought and will attract it - that is not a positive thought energy to repetitively enforce! Consider this fact too: In China, there is tremendous crowding and more pollution than many other places in this world. Yet, people there go outside every morning - no matter where they live - to practice tai chi together. And there are many centenarians in that grand country!
Does that mean you should not do it indoors? Absolutely not. Sure you can do tai chi in a cramped environment, so long as you don't allow it to bother you. It's OK to reposition yourself and continue when you run out of space. Remember, tai chi is in its essence, a martial arts practice. If you were freehand sparring, would you worry about having to reestablish your position? Of course not. But it's best if you have access to natural lighting and fresh air. Natural lighting helps to adjust your melatonin levels so that your circadian rhythm is balanced. You will breathe deeper when you do tai chi (yes, surprise, most tai chi is a gentle cardiovascular exercise), so it makes the most sense that you are not breathing in fumes, mold spores or cooking odors. Being able to do tai chi outside is optimal, as you can stretch out, connect with the energy of the earth, the ambient temperature, and manufacture some vitamin D in the sunlight (which can greatly enhance your mood).
The biggest problem is letting anything become an excuse for blocking your practice! Sometimes it's good to just get out of the house, away from the ringing telephone, idle conversations, computer, TV and host of other distractions. But if you can't make the time to get away, then at least make the time to do what you can indoors. Even if you have to lock yourself in a small room or open the window to get some sense of privacy and clarity, do it.
Above all, keep the positive thought in the back of your head that any mindful practice you do is accumulating to your progress and development. Think about how your tai chi practice is strengthening your inner organs and qi to help you clear out toxins and be less susceptible to all the stress and pollution in the world. That thought alone will empower you farther than the people who are afraid that they are constantly exposing themselves to negative energies if practicing in a less than optimal environ.
I once heard a master make the following comment, and I think it is appropriate to illustrate this point. "The Buddha who practices on the mountain may be very adept, but the Buddha who can practice in the city is the most enlightened."
Be like that most enlightened Buddha (or whoever your philosophical or religious role model!) and be able to make progress in your self-development anywhere. Start with where you are. The most important environment to practice in that's free of negative energy is your own mind.
Loretta Wollering is a recognized expert and master-level instructor in the field of tai chi chuan (taijiquan). She specializes in teaching tai chi from its ancient principles and from the traditional lineage of Master Jou Tsung Hwa. She is open-minded and accepting of all people interested in the art, no matter what their beliefs and levels of physical ability. Feel free to enjoy more information at: http://www.internalgardens.com/. You can also join beginners as well as advanced enthusiasts at America's biggest and friendliest tai chi gathering - Tai Chi Gala - headed by Ms. Wollering: http://www.taichigala.com/ YES - All are welcome here.
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