>90 Taijiquan journal prompts to deepen your practice

I recently re-discovered the calming effect of journaling. And that got me into the idea of journaling about by Taijiquan practice. Because Taijiquan is more than just physical movements. It brings harmony to body, mind, and spirit. I started with a list of Taijiquan journal prompts specifically for my own practice.

Taijiquan journal prompts for practice

  • Reflect on the factors that motivate you to establish a regular Taijiquan practice.
  • What time of day do you find most beneficial for your Taijiquan practice, and why?
  • Set specific and achievable goals for your weekly Taijiquan practice routine.
  • Explore different ways to integrate short Taijiquan sessions into your daily activities.
  • Identify potential obstacles to your regular Taijiquan practice and develop strategies to overcome them.
  • Do you need a dedicated space for your Taijiquan practice?
  • Reflect on the physical and mental benefits you’ve experienced when practicing Taijiquan consistently.
  • What duration of practice sessions suits your schedule best?
  • Think about a reward system for yourself to celebrate milestones in your Taijiquan journey.
  • Create a weekly Taijiquan schedule, incorporating rest days for recovery and reflection.
  • Reflect on how consistent Taijiquan practice aligns with your overall health and wellness goals.
  • Explore the idea of joining an online Taijiquan community for added motivation.
  • Reflect on the positive impact of your regular Taijiquan practice on other areas of your life.
  • Consider keeping a Taijiquan practice journal to track your progress and reflect on the benefits over time.
Taijiquan journal prompts - space

This last prompt lead to me thinking: what else can I journal about? I sat down to create an even longer list:

77 Journal Prompts for Taijiquan people

  • Reflect on your Taijiquan journey so far and the progress you’ve made.
  • How has practicing Taijiquan impacted your physical health and well-being?
  • Review a memorable experience from your Taijiquan practice.
  • Explore the concept of “Qi” in your Taijiquan practice and how it influences your movements.
  • Describe the feeling of achieving a state of relaxation during your Taijiquan sessions.
  • Reflect on the role of mindfulness in your Taijiquan practice and its effects on your daily life.
  • How do you incorporate the principles of Yin and Yang into your Taijiquan movements?
  • Muse on your favorite Taijiquan form and the significance it holds for you.
  • Discuss the importance of proper breathing techniques in Taijiquan.
  • Explore the connection between Taijiquan and meditation in your practice.
  • Reflect on the impact of Taijiquan on your mental clarity and focus.
  • Write down your thoughts on the balance between softness and firmness in Taijiquan movements.
  • Discuss the benefits of practicing Taijiquan for stress relief in your life.
  • Explore the role of patience in mastering Taijiquan techniques and forms.
  • How has Taijiquan influenced your posture and body awareness in everyday activities?
  • Contemplate your experience with Taijiquan as a moving meditation.
  • Reflect on the concept of “silk reeling” and its significance in your Taijiquan practice.
  • Discuss the role of Taijiquan in cultivating a sense of inner peace and tranquility.
  • How do you adapt your Taijiquan practice to different seasons or environments?
  • Think about your insights on the martial applications of Taijiquan and their relevance in modern times.
  • Reflect on the connection between Taijiquan and Traditional Chinese Medicine.
  • Discuss the role of visualization and how it could enhance your Taijiquan practice.
  • How do you integrate Taijiquan principles into your daily movements and activities?
  • List your favorite Taijiquan exercises for improving balance and coordination.
  • Explore the impact of Taijiquan on your overall flexibility and joint health.
  • Reflect on the relationship between Taijiquan and the natural elements (earth, water, fire, air).
  • Discuss the concept of “Song” (relaxation) and its importance in Taijiquan.
  • Write about your experiences with partner- or group-Taijiquan exercises.
  • Explore the role of Taijiquan in promoting emotional balance and resilience.
  • Reflect on the philosophy of “Wu Wei” in your Taijiquan practice.
  • How do you incorporate the Taoist principles of simplicity and spontaneity into your movements?
  • Discuss the importance of rooting and grounding in Taijiquan stances.
  • Describe your favorite Taijiquan applications for self-defense situations.
  • Explore the connection between Taijiquan and the Five Elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water).
  • Reflect on the role of Taijiquan in building a sense of community with fellow practitioners.
  • Discuss the impact of Taijiquan on your overall body awareness and proprioception.
  • How has your understanding of the Taijiquan classics influenced your practice?
  • Contemplate your experiences with Taijiquan workshops or retreats.
  • Explore the role of Taoist philosophy in shaping your approach to Taijiquan.
  • Reflect on the differences between the various styles of Taijiquan and their unique characteristics.
  • Discuss the importance of cultivating patience and persistence in your Taijiquan journey.
  • List your favorite Taijiquan warm-up exercises and their benefits.
  • Explore the concept of “Wuji” and its significance in the beginning and end of Taijiquan forms.
  • Reflect on the impact of Taijiquan on your personal sense of empowerment.
  • How do you adapt your Taijiquan practice to accommodate any physical limitations?
  • Discuss the role of Taijiquan in promoting mindfulness in your daily life.
  • Write down your insights on the role of intention and focus in Taijiquan movements.
  • Explore the connection between Taijiquan and the traditional Chinese philosophy of Confucianism.
  • Reflect on the concept of “Fang Song” (relaxation) and its application in Taijiquan postures.
  • How has Taijiquan influenced your approach to handling stress and pressure?
  • Reflect on the concept of “Zhan Zhuang” (standing meditation) in your Taijiquan practice.
  • Discuss the role of Taijiquan in promoting emotional intelligence and self-awareness.
  • Journal on your favorite breathing exercises for cultivating Qi.
  • Explore the relationship between Taijiquan and the principles of traditional Chinese calligraphy.
  • Reflect on the impact of Taijiquan on your overall sense of mindfulness in movement.
  • Discuss the role of Taijiquan in promoting balance and harmony in your life.
  • How do you apply Taijiquan principles when facing challenges or conflicts in your life?
  • Note your insights on the concept of “Song Kua” (relax the hip joints) and its significance.
  • Discuss the role of Taijiquan in promoting longevity and overall well-being.
  • Reflect on the symbolism and significance of the Taijiquan symbol (Yin-Yang).
  • Explore the connection between Taijiquan and Traditional Chinese Tea Culture.
  • Share your experiences with incorporating Taijiquan principles into daily activities like walking.
  • How has Taijiquan influenced your perspective on the mind-body connection?
  • Discuss the role of Taijiquan in enhancing your ability to respond to change.
  • Share your thoughts on the meditative aspects of Taijiquan and their impact on your mental state.
  • Reflect on the concept of “Wu De” (martial virtue) and its importance in Taijiquan practice.
  • Discuss the role of Taijiquan in promoting flexibility, both physically and mentally.
  • List your favorite Taijiquan philosophy books or resources.
  • Explore the connection between Taijiquan and the Chinese philosophy of Taoism.
  • How has Taijiquan influenced your approach to conflict resolution in your daily life?
  • Reflect on the role of Taijiquan in building resilience and adaptability.
  • Discuss the significance of the “Three Treasures” (Jing, Qi, Shen) in your Taijiquan practice.
  • Explore the impact of Taijiquan on your overall sense of mindfulness and awareness.
  • Discuss the role of Taijiquan in promoting a sense of calm and serenity.
  • How has your understanding of Taijiquan philosophy evolved over time?
  • Reflect on the role of Taijiquan in enhancing your connection with your own body.
  • Write down your vision for the future of your Taijiquan practice and the goals you aim to achieve.

Wow, now I have alot to think and journal about!

I invite you to also pause, ponder, and deepen your connection with your practice. Let the Taijiquan journaling begin!

journal prompts for Tai Chi people

If you have any interesting light-bulb-moments while journaling, feel free to send me an eMail or a DM on Instagram.

Happy Qi!

Angelika

If you do not understand all the terms in the Taijiquan journal prompts, have a look at my Taijiquan & Qi Gong Dictionary (available on Amazon*)

Taijiquan and Qi Gong Dictionary

Big international Qi Gong & Tai Chi events 2024

I just love to connect with Taijiquan & Qi Gong enthusiasts all around the world. That’s actually the reason why I write my blog in English even though my native language is German. And I have to admit that I have never been to a conference or big push hands meeting, but I would really like to go to such an event. And there are so many Qi Gong & Tai Chi Events 2024!

I am sure you can find many more events, meetings, workshops etc. But I wanted to concentrate on the BIG international meetings and conferences. So my criteria to choose the Qi Gong & Tai Chi events on my list are:

  • Minimum 3 days long
  • Minimum 3 different teachers
  • Possibility to participate in English or have translations to English (especially when the event is in a non-English-speaking country)

Just choose an event you would like to go to – there are so many possibilities and locations. I am sure you’ll find one of these big international Qi Gong & Tai Chi events 2024 right for you! You could even plan your vacation around such an event, they happen in really great places.

And if you know about other events that match my criteria, feel free to write me an eMail!


Big International Qi Gong & Tai Chi Events 2024

International Push Hands Meeting Hannover

April 17-21, 2024 in Hannover, Germany

For the 23rd time, push hands beginners and enthusiasts meet in Hanover. Mornings are filled with workshops for all levels, afternoons are filled with free push hands opportunities.

International Push Hands Meeting Hannover: Logo

International Taiji-Push Hands-Meeting

May 30 – June 2, 2024 in Hassfurt, Germany

This meeting provides TAIJI – practitioners of all styles (Yang, Chen, Wu, Fu …) a friendly and harmonious atmosphere to practice, to get to know, to share experiences,… . But the important thing is to go deep into the art of TAIJIQUAN.


International Tai Chi Festival “Democritus of Abdera”

June 21-23, 2024 in Xanthi, Greece

International exchange meeting between teachers, experts and friends of Tai Chi Chuan and Qi Gong of Europe and the Balkan area aiming to enhance friendship and expertise in the ancient Chinese internal martial and movement art. Exploring Tai Chi through philosophy with an approach of the work of the great philosopher Democritus of Abdera.


Drachen und Tiger – Open Air Pushing Hands Meeting

July 05-07, 2024 near Bremen, Germany

open air pushing hands meeting


Tai Chi Caledonia

July 12-19, 2025 in Stirling, Scotland

2024 is the 27th time that this week of Tai Chi, Qi Gong & Chinese Internal Arts takes place in the heart of Scotland.

Logo of Tai Chi Caledonia Event

Les Rencontres Jasnières

July 26-28, 2024 in Marçon, France

This event is the oldest international Taijiquan meeting across different styles in Europe. It emphazises friendly and non-competitive exchange of experiences, skills, and push hands. (This meeting on a camping ground has no commercial organisator, thus openness and self organisation is expected!)


North Sea Tai Chi Festival

August 18-20, 2024 Haarlem, The Netherlands

This is a 3-day outdoor Tai Chi festival, open to all styles, related disciplines and levels.


NQA Annual Qi Gong Conference

September 24-26, 2024 in Savannah, Georgia, USA

In 2024, the NQA will host their in-person conference in Savannah, Georgia.


International Push Hands Meeting in Prague

not scheduled yet in Prague, Czech Republic

This meeting consists of workshop in the mornings and free Push Hands in the afternoons.


Now those are a lot of big Qi Gong & Tai Chi events 2024! I am sure there are some more, so please contact me if you know of another meeting that meets my criteria (min. 3 days, min. 3 teachers, English).

And of course I want to wish all organizers and participants success and a good time:

Have fun! Learn a lot! Connect with each other!

Happy Qi!

Angelika

P.S.: I would like to add one more big event: the World Tai Chi & Qi Gong Day on April 27th, 2024 which is celebrated all over the world!

Practice makes you …

I recently did a Udemy course on EFT (more on that topic in on of my next blog posts). And in that course, the teacher said something really interesting:

Practice makes you natural.

Actually, he said “practice makes you…” and I thought: perfect. But I resisted that thought immediately.

With to anything I have learned so far, I never felt like doing it perfectly. And I know that all the masters, of Tai Chi and Qi gong or any other topic, the masters are not perfect. They make mistakes, too!

However, that teacher said: “practice makes you natural”.

And that is totally in line with what I experience whenever I practice a lot of Tai Chi and Qi Gong. 

It seems as if my Tai Chi and Qi Gong practice transcends into my everyday life. My body moves more naturally. My mind flows more naturally. 

And that is what I think is one of the great benefits of Tai Chi and Qi gong: to become more natural in my body, mind and spirit. 

I do not aim at perfection. I am at being me. Being my true nature.

What about you? Just think about it: do you want to be perfect? Or do you want to be natural? There is no judgment, just explore yourself and figure out what you prefer and strive for!

List of Live Online Tai Chi Classes & Qi Gong Classes during Corona

As many Tai Chi and Qi Gong schools are closed, teachers and students turn to learn online. And I think it is amazing how we can benefit from technology.

And there are so many options! To help you find one for you, I create this list. I want to show you the many live online Tai Chi classes & Qi Gong classes that are available right now.

Let’s get through this crisis together and take our time to practice!

List of live online Tai Chi Classes and Qi Gong classes

Below is a list with even some online courses. Some lessons are for free, some are paid. It list is in no particular order. I thought about ordering it by country (because of the time zones), but I decided not to. I want to give you the opportunity to practice whenever wherever from teachers all over the world. We, as Tai Chi and Qi Gong practicioners, are a truly global community! Let’s celebrate that with some awesome online classes!

Live online Tai Chi classes and Qi Gong classes

If you know of a live online Tai Chi teacher or Qi Gong teacher who is not listed here, feel free to contact me and send me the link to their homepage.

If you still cannot find something, check out my list of 5-Minute-Qi Gong videos or 10-minute-Qi Gong videos.

And no matter where you are: remember to breath! It’s even more important during a crisis to take your breaks and unwind. You will make better choices when you are relaxed.

Happy Qi!

Angelika

The Taijiquan & Qi Gong Dictionary - especially for Tai Chi beginners

Big international Qi Gong & Tai Chi events 2020

I just love to connect with Taijiquan & Qi Gong enthusiasts all around the world. That’s actually the reason why I write my blog in English even though my mothertongue is German. And I have to admit that I have never been to a conference or big push hands meeting, but I would really like to go to such an event. And there are so many Qi Gong & Tai Chi Events 2020!

I am sure you can find many more events, meetings, workshops etc. But I wanted to concentrate on the BIG international meetings and conferences. So my criteria to choose the Qi Gong & Tai Chi events 2018 on my list are:

  • Minimum 3 days long
  • Minimum 3 different teachers
  • Possibility to participate in English or have translations to English (especially when the event is in a non-English-speaking country)

Just choose an event you would like to go to – there are so many possibilities and locations. I am sure you’ll find one of these big international Qi Gong & Tai Chi events 2020 right for you! You could even plan your vacation around such an event, they happen in really great places.

And if you know about other events that match my criteria, feel free to write me an eMail!


Big International Qi Gong & Tai Chi Events 2020

International Push Hands Meeting Hannover: Logo

International Push Hands Meeting Hanover

February 26th – March 1st 2020 in Hanover, Germany

For the 20th time, push hands beginners and enthusiasts meet in Hanover. Mornings are filled with workshops for all levels, afternoons are filled with free push hands opportunities.


Austrian Qi Gong Days

May 15th – 17th 2020 in Gut Chiemsee, Germany

Topic of this meeting of the Austrian Qi Gong Association and German Qi Gong Association is „Sehnsucht nach Ganzheit“ (“longing for wholenesse”).


International Tai Chi Festival “Democritus of Abdera”

May 22th – 24th 2020 in Xanthi, Greece

International exchange meeting between teachers, experts and friends of Tai Chi Chuan and Qi Gong of Europe and the Balkan area aiming to enhance friendship and expertise in the ancient Chinese internal martial and movement art. Exploring Tai Chi through philosophy with an approach of the work of the great philosopher Democritus of Abdera.


International Taiji-Push Hands-Meeting

June 11th – June 14th 2020 in Hassfurt, Germany

This meeting provides TAIJI – practitioners of all styles (Yang, Chen, Wu, Fu …) a friendly and harmonious atmosphere to practice, to get to know, to share experiences,… . But the important thing is to go deep into the art of TAIJIQUAN.


Drachen und Tiger – Open Air Pushing Hands Meeting

June 19th- 21st in Bremen, Germany

open air pushing hands meeting


Logo of Tai Chi Caledonia Event

Tai Chi Caledonia

July 10th – July 17th 2020 in Stirling, UK

2020 is the 25th time that this week of Tai Chi, Qi Gong & Chinese Internal Arts takes place in the heart of Scotland.


NQA Annual Qi Gong Conference

July 24th – 26th 2020, Albany (NY), USA

Over the past 23 years, the National Qigong Assocation has hosted this conference to share Qigong. In 2018, there will be two conferences in April (East) and October (West, only two days).


Les Rencontres Jasnières

July 24th – July 26th 2020 in Marçon, France

This event is the oldest international Taijiquan meeting across different styles in Europe. It emphazises friendly and non-competitive exchange of experiences, skills, and push hands. (This meeting on a camping ground has no commercial organisator, thus openness and self organisation is expected!)



North Sea Tai Chi Festival

August 14th- 18th 2020 Haarlem, The Netherlands

This is a 3-day outdoor Tai Chi festival, open to all styles, related disciplines and levels.


International Push Hands Meeting in Prague

September 11th – 13th in Prague, Czech Republic

This meeting consists of workshop in the mornings and free Push Hands in the afternoons.


Now those are a lot of big Qi Gong & Tai Chi events 2020! I am sure there are some more, so please contact me if you know of another meeting that meets my criteria (min. 3 days, min. 3 teachers, English).

And of course I want to wish all organizers and participants success and a good time:

Have fun! Learn a lot! Connect with each other!

Happy Qi!

Angelika

P.S.: You can find a list of open Tai Chi tournaments here!

And I would like to add one more big event: the World Tai Chi & Qi Gong Day on April 25th, 2020 which is celebrated all over the world!