The following was contributed by Kjell Carlsson; insights from his recent export of Chen Tai Chi practice during his vacation to Costa Rica for the purpose of tropical recreation, and research of the effects of constant ingestion of rice & beans on the human body. I think he may have developed a special secret Chen Taiji Yi Lu "fast form" specifically for combat with skilled mosquitos as well.*

Many people have asked* “so, where is a good place to practice Taiji?” Though many people think that trivial things like how much you practice, the quality of instruction, etc. matter most, I disagree. It’s all about location. Location, location, location. Let’s look at figure A.

Clearly the presence of a waterfall (preferably more than 150 ft) is a plus. The spray keeps things nice and cool, while the roar of the waterfall drowns out those annoying voices in your head that are screaming in agony and telling you to stop. However, the lack of any flat surfaces, copious rocks, and slippery algae detract from these benefits. Waterfalls good, boulders bad.

Figure B, on the other hand demonstrates a much better choice of location. The wide, flat open areas will not break your limbs when you collapse with exhaustion, and your practice will fly by when you can watch the occasional surfer get eaten by sharks.

Though these are clearly the most important considerations when practicing taiji, the prudent practitioner will probably also want to check local conditions for malaria, Japanese encephalitis, dengue fever, leeches, potable water, flesh-eating bacteria, and falling coconuts. Though not necessary, some masters have also been known to check for leprosy, bubonic plague, and Gideonites.

We hope that you will use these common-sense principles in your day-to-day practice. We certainly do in ours.

Writing and photoessay by Kjell Carlsson.

(Thanks Kjell)