27/07/2026
Last week, while teaching a Tai Chi class at Learning for Life, the organiser, Nalni, was chatting with one of the learners about our classes and encouraging him to come along. She simply said, "Turn up and try."
Those four words really struck me. I asked Nalni where she'd heard the phrase because I thought it perfectly summed up the attitude of moving beyond the fears, excuses and self-doubt that can keep us safely tucked away in our comfort zones.
She smiled and said she hadn't got it from anywhere – it had just come to her.
This phrase has stayed with me and I hope it resonated with the learner as much as it did with me.
Now, I completely understand that life isn't the same for everyone. Some people have experienced tremendous difficulties, and for them even stepping outside the front door can feel overwhelming. Sometimes the bravest thing a person can do is ask for help, and seeking the right support and guidance.
Ultimately, I believe people should pursue what genuinely matters to them, provided they're not harming themselves or others.
So, if this resonates with you, maybe it's time to put those excuses aside, take a small step forward, and simply...
Turn up and try.
If you've been thinking about joining one of our Tai Chi or Qigong classes, we'd love to welcome you. You don't need to be fit, flexible or experienced—just willing to give it a go.
Here's the payment link for our August classes:
https://www.taichi-swindon.co.uk/tai-chi-classes
Cheers, everyone. I hope to see you in class!
Graham
P.S. Learning for Life is a wonderful local charity that helps vulnerable adults rebuild their confidence, develop new skills and become active, creative members of the community. It relies heavily on donations and successful funding bids to continue its work. Nalni and Ian, who run the organisation, often work until four o'clock in the morning preparing applications to secure funding. I've had the privilege of working with them for more than 20 years, and I've seen first-hand the extraordinary dedication they bring to helping others.
