Welcome to the Year of the Snake!
I took some time out and spent the new year at Stonehenge – the entire area is perfect for practising Tai Chi, especially in silence and stillness of the early morning light. 
While in some traditions (Christianity for example) the snake tends to be feared as the embodiment of evil and temptation, there is also the dichotomy of its healing and beneficial nature. In many cultures the snake is often linked with female deities and the Earth Mother. In Hinduism the snake is the guardian of the threshold and of treasures (both material and spiritual).
The snake is one of the 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac. It shares many similarities with the dragon, which symbolises wisdom and strength. While snake movements are smooth and flowing, with an emphasis on softness and adaptability, dragon movements are more dynamic and embody a sense of spirit and power.
The movements in Tai Chi, which all help with balance and harmony, are inspired by nature (grasp the bird’s tail, moving clouds), and it is this – the tradition of being a part of nature through the practice of Tai Chi, that I like to focus on in my workshops.
The Snake Creeps Down is often considered to be one of the most challenging movements in the Yang sequence but practice can help increase vitality and longevity.
I’ll be running workshops at a few festivals later in the year, and I hope we can try a few of the snake related movements!
