Never would I have dreamed of practicing Tai Chi on the high seas. Yet here I am, on the third day of a 14-day transatlantic crossing to Southampton, England, aboard Cunard’s Queen Victoria. The Queen Victoria is a grand ocean liner, blending classic elegance with modern luxury. At nearly 965 feet in length and with a capacity for over 2,000 guests, it offers a refined cruising experience, complete with a grand ballroom, an extensive library, and elegant dining venues. Despite its size, the ship is but a speck in the vastness of the Atlantic. Right now, we are traversing the Bermuda Triangle, a region infamous for its legends of vanished ships and aircraft. Of course, modern navigation and technology have dispelled much of the mystery, but the thought of sailing through these storied waters still adds an air of intrigue to the journey.

For the past two mornings, I have made my way to the forward deck, overlooking the bow, to practice Tai Chi as the sun rises. From the start, I’ve had to modify my form. Kicks have been eliminated, and I must sink lower into my stances to maintain balance. The ocean, vast and powerful, constantly shifts the ship beneath me—an unpredictable rhythm of rising and falling, swaying side to side. Every step is a challenge. Adding to this, even though glass panels help deflect the wind, the force of the open sea’s gusts constantly pushes me in different directions. Yet, the air is exhilarating, crisp with the scent of salt, and the experience of moving through Tai Chi as the first light breaks the horizon is nothing short of unforgettable. Interestingly, while the slow movements are difficult to control, I find it easier to practice faster sets, such as the sword form. Of course, I have no actual sword—mine is purely imaginary. Without it, I still visualize each cut and thrust, adapting as I go. Though balance remains a challenge, the increased pace makes it slightly easier to stay steady. We are still in the early stages of our voyage, and I understand that as we head farther north, the seas will grow rougher. But Tai Chi is all about change—adapting to ever-shifting conditions, finding balance in motion. Out here, in the middle of the Bermuda Triangle, that lesson has never felt more real.

P.S. Last night, we entered heavier seas and stronger winds. The ship’s movement has become more pronounced, with each step requiring a firm grip on the railings to stay steady while walking. Tai Chi will be even more of a challenge now—but that only means needing more focus to balance.