Swimming Taught Me Tai Chi

In this reflective essay, I explore an unexpected teacher: the water. What began as a return to swimming gradually revealed lessons about rhythm, breath, and the subtle art of moving with—not against—life.

Drawing connections between swimming and Tai Chi, I reflects on how the body learns wisdom long before the mind can name it. Through quiet observation of breath, balance, and flow, the piece becomes a meditation on embodied learning, patience, and the ways ordinary experiences can become profound teachers.

Read the full essay:

https://open.substack.com/pub/kemehawkins/p/swimming-taught-me-tai-chi?r=78uxkr&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true

After writing my recent essay “Swimming Taught Me Tai Chi,” a few people asked how they might experience Tai Chi themselves.

One thing I’ve learned recently is that Tai Chi reveals itself through consistent practice — especially slow, quiet morning practice.

So I’m opening a small online container.

Beginning March 21, I’ll be hosting a 5-week Sunrise Tai Chi series on Zoom.

• 30-minute Saturday sessions• beginner friendly• focused on breath, gentle movement, and coordination

Series: $125Drop-in: $30Limited to 12 participants