Conversation with a Tai Chi Master

[Alan Armstrong]

Had a conversation with a Tai Chi master, some twenty years ago. The type of profound exchange of words that I would never forget.

Trying to pick this Martial Art Master's brain on understanding Tai Chi.

I wanted to know from him, why practice Tai Chi for forty years.

He told me it was preventative medicine referring to gentle exercise.

So I asked him if I could get the same effects from walking he replied "Yes"

I went on to explain that I often go for a walk to relax me. He told me that if you need to go for a walk to relax, then it is too late.

He went on to explain that I was suffering from "the too late syndrome"

Many of his students were referred to him to practice Tai Chi from their physicians. If these very same students were practicing Tai Chi earlier as "preventative medicine" then they may not have needed hospital treatment and to now practice Tai Chi as a "therapy"

"The too late syndrome" can be applied to many aspects of life.

Not reacting quick enough or perhaps not at all.

Martial arts can start off to be preventative medicine and end up as a therapy?

Which category are you in right now?

[LLLEARNER]

One of the reasons I started karate was for my back. Almost 2 years ago I fell and ended up with what I think is a herniated disk. I never did go to a doctor about it. I probably should get it checked at some point. I figured the movement in martial arts would help. It still messes with my coordination sometimes and my feet and legs go numb.

[Alan Armstrong]

Go to see a doctor LLLEARNER; treating yourself with karate may or may not be the answer, a doctor would be able to set you straight with the best advice.