When Jun Konno developed the practice of Ai Chi, one of his primary mantras was, “However it turns out is how it was meant to be.” No two Ai Chi experiences are the same, whether done by two people at the same time or the same person at different times. Sometimes I will be drawn to do extra repetitions of certain postures, and sometimes I will skip a posture that does not feel right at the time. Ai Chi can be done to a variety of genres of music, to poetry, or to meditative mantras and visualization prompts. It is all good.
Taking this concept another step, Ai Chi practitioners have offered variations to allow for practice to a wider audience. A focus on breath, range of motion and mindfulness are presented in Ai Chi introductory classes. Katrien Lemahieu has gifted the world with Ai Chi in Three, a faster paced version of Ai Chi that works well in cooler water and establishes calm and stress reduction by finding flow. Nachiko Onuki teaches Power Ai Chi with intensity progressions, rhythmic breathing and strength training based on Ai Chi protocols. Ashley Bishop teaches a land version of Ai Chi that incorporates dance techniques for situations where water practice is not preferable or possible. Donna Lewen has customized an Ai Chi practice for those with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Clinical Ai Chi allows therapists to customize Ai Chi for the rehabilitation needs of their patients. And I have suggested guidelines for doing Ai Chi with those who are dealing with symptoms experienced with long COVID, chronic fatigue syndrome and myalgic encephalomyelitis.
Many of these Ai Chi variations will be highlighted at the AEA International Aquatic Fitness and Therapy Conference (IAFTC) at the Sanibel Harbour Marriott in Fort Myers, FL (USA) May 7-11, 2024. Aquatic fitness practitioners and aquatic rehab professionals will be gathering to collaborate and learn through a wide variety of classes and events. There is still time to register for this enriching biennial event. I hope to see some of you there!
Information about IAFTC is available here:
The tree photo reminds me of forest bathing. I wonder if there is an intersection between Ai Chi’s heartbeat and rhythm based movements and meditation in the forest