CMA 20-02 18th Aug 2020
A second challenge
We have done very well on the whole in dealing with the first outbreak of COVID-19 in New Zealand and was able to come down to level 1 for 65 days.
Our various online classes over the lockdown were very useful in keeping everyone motivated and in touch. When the first lockdown was lifted, most people got back into training with real keenness. It was most heartening to see that everyone valued their training more than ever after experiencing the lockdown. We also picked up quite a few new students once our classes started back up.
We managed to hold our Nelson gradings and seminars at the end of last month and a couple of big gradings for the Canterbury students at HQ. It is great to see so many keen new students and existing students improving through the ranks.
However, as you all know we are facing a second outbreak in the last few days. Our branches in the UK and Sydney are still very limited in their operations from March. Our Auckland branches cannot train along with branches that have been temporarily shut out by their landlords. We have instructors providing online Zoom classes for those students who are not currently able to train, if you are one of these students and haven’t been contacted please send us a message and we can give you the information.
It is most important to keep safe and follow the hygiene and social distancing protocols. We should keep a positive attitude, we have done it before and can do it again. If we know how to enjoy training it will keep us physically and mentally healthy. The breathing exercises in the beginning and conclusion of training are great for relaxing and dealing with stress. The seated stretching routine with emphasis on long, fine breaths should also be a daily ritual.
Event cancellations
1. SOTC Student Camp & Grading 28th/29th March in Auckland,
2. Invercargill KF & TCC Grading & Seminars 4th/5th April
3. SOTC Seminar & Grading 25th/26th April in Christchurch,
4. Queen’s Birthday 30th/31st May Annual Seminars and Tournament.
5. SOTC Seminar & Grading 4th July in Sydney.
These cancellations were real blows, but we have proven that we can survive them and come back stronger. We are still very hopeful that, not only will we have the annual camp in Invercargill, we will have the Auckland instructors and students attend as well. If the outbreak is contained within a week there is a good chance the alert level will be lowered. We have a very big number enrolled for camp despite the challenges. This is a sign of your commitment to training and confidence in our organisation.
Training
Both Tai Chi Chuan and Shao Chi Chuan training are great for keeping you fit and healthy and will boost your immune system.
1. If you have a cough, cold or generally unwell, please stay away from classes till you are completely clear of symptoms.
2. We should practice greeting each other with our traditional salutation instead of shaking hands or hugging.
3. Wash your hands with soap and water immediately when you come through the door for training.
4. We should refrain from practising contact drills such as Pushing Hands, Chin Na, Takedowns & Ground Fighting at level 2.
5. We will cancel classes if the situation requires it and you will be informed.
6. If you cannot make classes or classes are not available in your area, set 1 hour aside every day to practice a) breathing & meditation exercises, b) stretching exercises c) patterns & d) bag work if you have one.
Healthy practices
1. Wear a mask when out and about at level 3 & 4.
2. Do not get closer than 2 metres to anyone.
3. Do not touch your face or mask
4. Do not touch door handles, handrails, countertops with your bare hands in public places, or wear disposable rubber gloves and discard safely afterwards, or use hand sanitiser if you cannot wash your hands.
5. Eat healthily with sufficient Vitamin C.
6. Get some sun every day or supplement with Vitamin D.
7. Prepare to have enough emergency rations for 2 weeks.
8. Try to keep active by taking regular walks, gardening, making things or playing music.
9. Get tested for COVID-19 if you have any of the symptoms.
10. Keep in touch with family & friends, especially those who are by themselves.
Recent Focus in training
We have been working hard on centre axis control and there is a remarkable improvement overall. We are also working on keeping the ‘round’ shape to be more relaxed. However, this is yet to be attained by most of you. Having these two fundamental points can transform you into a more efficient technician.
There is so much to discuss at camp this year. I can hardly wait to see you all. I the meantime, keep well and practice carefully and patiently.
May Chi be with you,
Grandmaster SC Chan