After learning the basics of tai chi in those first few classes, I found myself bored and aching from doing the same moves over and over again. Luckily, my coach taught me how to relax my muscles and focus on peace of mind while performing the routine. With these requirements of tai chi in mind, I found to my satisfaction that     1     我的平衡性和柔韧性慢慢有所改善, that I was able to do more difficult moves, and that my love for tai chi returned stronger than ever.

In time, I began to look into the ancient Chinese culture behind tai chi. I discovered that     2     tai chi is deeply rooted in the Chinese philosophy of yin and yang, which are believed to form the unity of opposites. Neither can exist independent of the other; for example, there is no shadow without light. The practice of tai chi aims to maintain the balance of yin and yang in the body through opposite movements. Eventually,     3     tai chi brings about a state of physical balance and mental peace.

A year of practising     4     tai chi has had a positive effect on my everyday life. I sleep better at night, and I am more energetic during the day.     5     我感到更快乐和更自信了. Tai chi has taught me to relax my mind, enabling me to stay cool in stressful situations. I am sure I will continue to practise tai chi and enjoy the benefits it has brought me.