School is starting up again, and that means long hours sitting at desks and computers, studying and generally not getting as much exercise as you should. On top of that, it will soon be getting colder here in New England, and that means that a lot of your favorite physical activities will have to be put on hold until next year.

Luckily, a Tai Chi routine is the perfect alternative to pick up during this transition to the indoors. Here are five reasons why:

Tai Chi can be done anywhere. You really only need enough room to stand up straight and spread your arms out. This means you can do Tai Chi in your apartment, your office, your bathroom, a library... the possibilities are endless!
No, really, I mean anywhere. For those of us who like to connect with the earth every day, or at least get some of that fresh, winter air, throw on some heavy clothes, a knit hat and gloves, a jacket, and head outside! Shovel yourself a little space in your driveway or at the local park and start moving. You'll warm up very fast if you focus on your breathing.
Slow down, but still be on time. Tai Chi is great because you can create so many different forms and routines to suit the amount of time you have. You could do an hour of Tai Chi every morning, or take a couple ten minute breaks for it during the day, or anything in between. No matter how your schedule looks, you'll be thankful you took the time to get some gentle exercise each day.
Reboot your inner CPU. The human brain can only absorb so much information at a time. Whether you are starting a new semester at college, or starting a new job, you'll probably feel like you are trying to drink out of a fire-hose some days. Too much information! The meditative aspects of Tai Chi do wonders for renewing your ability to focus, sleep well, and feel awake and alert throughout your day.
Skip the sniffles. Tai Chi and meditation boost your immune system. The colder weather, flu season, and mixing of so many people going back to school and work create a melting-pot of germs and viruses that spread like wildfire each year. Washing your hands as often as possible and adhering to appropriate sneezing and coughing etiquette can help, but the only way to really avoid getting sick is to keep your immune system running on all cylinders. Tai Chi does that too.

If you aren't sure where to start on your new Tai Chi journey, I have a number of courses, books, and DVDs available for practitioners of all skill levels. I even have a short-form course designed to help you focus, currently on-sale at Udemy.

Good luck!