End of year message

Dear friends of our Tai Chi community,

As we come to the end of another year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the progress each of you has made and to offer a few words of encouragement as we move into the new year.

Tai Chi and Qigong are not just physical practices; they are journeys that nurture our body, mind, and spirit. Over times, you may have noticed how these practices help improve your balance, increase flexibility, reduce stress and promote a sense of calm and focus. They build strength, cultivate mindfulness and support overall well-being. These benefits are not always immediately visible, but with consistent effort, they compound in powerful ways. As I have mentioned many times, the most valuable asset we have is our HEALTH. The practice of Tai Chi and Qigong are some of the best ways to build this asset.

Remember, Tai Chi and Qigong are lifelong practices, and growth comes in small, steady steps. Some days may feel easier than others, and at times you may feel frustrated, but do not be discouraged. The key is to keep showing up, stay patient with yourself, and trust the process. Progress is not always linear, but each practice brings you closer to greater balance, health and peace of mind.

As we step into a new year, I encourage you to remain dedicated to your practice. Even on days when it feels difficult, remember that every moment of stillness is a step forward. The benefits are cumulative, and the rewards will continue to unfold as you keep practicing with patience and perseverance.

Thank you for being part of our Tai Chi community this year. Together with Grandmaster Eng Chor and all our teaching staff, I look forward to continuing this journey with you in the year ahead.

Before I conclude I wish to officially announce the appointment of Yvonne Schmidt as Senior Instructor and Graham Sullivan as Instructor. Yvonne Schmidt has been an instructor assisting in the Ashburton class for many years and lately in the Armadale class. In July this year, together with Noel Schmidt, she commenced our first centre in the Mornington Peninsula with 22 new students on the 1st day. Graham Sullivan has been an Assistant Instructor from our Hoppers Crossing class. Together with Rita Sullivan, they have been nurturing our students from the Western suburbs first in Werribee and now in Hoppers Crossing.

I also wish to warmly thank Martin and Margaret Bay who have run the Bundoora class for many years.  They will step down at the end of 2024 from running the Bundoora class for family reasons. From 2025 onwards, the Bundoora and Preston classes will merge and be based in Preston.

I am so proud of all members of our teaching staff.  Each one of them has shown much dedication to the teaching they impart to our students. The Masters record our deep appreciation to all of them.

As I conclude, I wish to invite you to 2 special park sessions I will be conducting over the summer break at the Alistair Knox Park, Eltham on 4 January (Saturday) and 17 January (Friday) at 10.00 am. There are other park sessions scheduled across Melbourne over the break so check the website for details.

May good health, peace and joy follow you all your days. Wishing you a Blessed Christmas and a great year ahead.
Senior Master Chin Min Lian

Updated: 23 November 2024