5 Things that Surprised me This Morning

This morning’s exercise routine went well. I got up reluctant, stuck in the Tai Chi DVD I borrowed from the library, fast forwarded through the introduction stuff, and began with some simple movements to warm up before my five minutes of calisthenics.

000taichi

Five things that surprised me about this morning’s set:

  1.  Simple movements can be difficult to master when they are unfamiliar to you.

2.  Slowing down, when your mind tells you to run, run, run, is not an easy  thing.

3.  Being deliberate and patterned in your movements, while slowing down, takes concentration.

4.  I can see the benefits associated with Tai Chi exercises, but I’m not sure I want to adapt Tai Chi philosophy.

5.  I can be willing to do what I do not want to do, especially when I am convinced that what I do will benefit me and heal my body.

To My Additional Surprise: 

My five minutes this morning turned to seven minutes before I knew it. Coming off an injury that limited my mobility last week, I paid special attention to my body as I exercised this morning, and changed positions and movements when I noticed any pain.  It was a good start to a new program for me.

I have to say I am looking forward (with only the slightest bit of hesitation/apprehension), to learning a routine I can practice every morning going forward.  Anything that keeps me moving without too much pain is a welcome addition to my life.

Have you ever practiced Tai Chi?  When have you surprised yourself during an exercise routine, and how did that feel?