Discover how this journey can help you live a lighter, more mindful, and happier life.

Let me begin by sharing why I started practicing Tai Chi Chuan and how I became an instructor of this remarkable martial art.

More than a decade ago, I was diagnosed with a spinal condition that worsened with the development of several herniated discs. My life came to a standstill, and my mind became a prison. Everyday tasks became difficult—even a short walk felt like a major challenge.

Then, a friend told me about a group of people practicing a gentle form of movement and suggested that I give it a try. That was the moment Tai Chi Chuan entered my life.

Every Great Journey Begins with the First Step

By attending public classes, I discovered a world I had never known existed. I met teachers and masters who guided me—and continue to guide me—along this path, showing me everything that can be achieved through dedicated practice.

The very first achievement is surprisingly simple: learning to breathe.

In today’s fast-paced world, taking a moment to breathe may seem insignificant. Yet, when we breathe with awareness, we begin to experience the many layers of this simple act.

Gradually, anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy sessions gave way to a healthier body and a calmer mind. This journey also led me to explore Traditional Chinese Medicine. Through treatment with acupuncturist Marcia Lopes, I reached the peak of my recovery and became stronger than I had ever imagined.

Learning to Teach

The more I learned, the more I wanted to discover.

Soon came courses, tournaments, and profound learning experiences alongside the masters of the traditional Wu Chao Hsing School. In a future article, I will also share part of the story of Dr. Wu and the legacy of this remarkable school.

Before long, I realized something impossible to ignore: such a transformative practice deserved to be shared.

Gentle movements, a focused mind, restored balance… little by little, everything seemed to fall back into place.

What Lies Ahead

Now I’d like to share part of this journey with you.

Together, we will learn how to breathe, relax, smile, move with intention, and discover principles that have made Tai Chi Chuan a practice associated with vitality, longevity, and harmony between body and mind for centuries.

In each article, I will share personal experiences, insights from Traditional Chinese Medicine, scientific research, and meditative reflections, always with the purpose of inspiring a movement that can transform the way you live.

May this be your first step.

About the author

Elissandro Ferreira is a Tai Chi Chuan Instructor (Laoshi) of the traditional Wu Chao Hsiang School in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

With eight years of immersive experience, he teaches the theoretical and practical foundations of Tai Chi Chuan, combining tradition, discipline, and human development. His training was built under the guidance of Master Venceslau Cardozo and Instructor Maria Correa.

In addition to teaching, he serves as an official referee. Holding a degree in Design and currently studying Physical Education, he seeks to integrate academic knowledge with traditional martial wisdom, promoting a practice grounded in precision of movement, body awareness, and the cultivation of vital energy (Qi).

At Mundo Reiki, he shares articles about Tai Chi Chuan as an integrative practice that complements the principles of holistic care, presence, balance, and self-awareness, helping readers discover different paths toward health, vital energy, and a better quality of life.