Balance is one of the 2 main reasons why people start a tai chi practice in the first place. The other is flexibility.

Both can refer to the body and the mind.

Many people focus on balance of the body so that they can prevent falls and feel more stable.
This makes sense because according to the CDC, millions of people 65+ fall each year. 1 out of every 4 people 65+ fall and 1 out of 5 falls leads to serious injury such as a broken bone or head injury.

It's a good thing you're practicing tai chi. Studies show that tai chi reduces fall risk and the fear of falling. Some studies even show that tai chi can reduce the rate of injury-related falls by up to 50%!

It's important to take care of our bodies. However, it is just as important to take care of our minds.

I spent years studying exercise science and physical therapy. I was surprised to discover how much psychology is involved with both.

My biggest finding was related to how much the mind affects the body and vice versa.
Usually, we are happier if our bodies are feeling better. We also can do the things that make our bodies feel better if we are motivated, happy, and in a good place mentally.
This is another reason why tai chi is so beneficial... it improves balance of the body and the mind.

Tai chi taps into our autonomic nervous system.

It helps to balance out the fight/flight/freeze (sympathetic nervous system) with the rest and digest (parasympathetic nervous system).

By cultivating tools to create balance in mind and body, it is more possible to live in harmony.
For me, I got to the point where I am able to tap into my deeper values... compassion, kindness, and connection.

This helps to reduce the suffering that I experience in this world. It also helps me to create less suffering for others.

Each time I practice tai chi, it's like releasing another layer of conditioning. This allows me to get a little closer to my center where wisdom and compassion reside.

Balance is very important to me.

What do you do to cultivate balance of your body and mind?