Recently I came across a forum on Taiji. There was an interesting discussion on whether the use of music during Taiji practice is appropriate. Some felt that the use of music was distracting and they could not focus on their steps while other found that it helps them to relax and enjoy the Taiji movement.

Each has their own preferences and I personally feel that using of music in Taiji practice is good. Why? Here's my thoughts.

1. Music provides relaxation to the mind. With the right music played during practice, I felt my movement is more graceful and beautiful.
2. Yes music can be a distraction but that what Taiji is all about – Concentration. Music acts as a background enhancer to our movement but the mind must not be distracted by it. Doing Taiji requires concentration to execute all the movement steps. I find this a very good practice to focus my mind and concentrate.
3. Music brings in the joy and fun factor to learn Taiji. With music, I find doing Taiji with the just hands or weapons fun, enjoyable and relaxing. It becomes very interesting trying to find for music to match the type of Taiji you are doing.

Well, as I said, each has their own preferences and reasons. So what’s yours? :-)