Tai Chi and Qi Gong

Tai Chi and Qi Gong are closely related.  We teach Tai Chi as a separate class and integrate Qi Gong breathing into several of our programs.

Qi Gong is a series of approximately 300 different breathing exercises that are designed to promote health and longevity. Emphasis is on the breathing rather than the martial application of the postures. When Qi Gong is done as a group activity, everyone moves at their own pace. 

What most people think of as Tai Chi is a subset of these Qi Gong movements that have combined into a dancelike series of movement called the Yang Short Form. In Tai Chi class, more emphasis is placed on movement and posture that retains martial arts application.  Another difference is that when Tai Chi is done as a group activity everyone moves at the same pace.

However, things are not quite that simple. There are 5 major types of Tai Chi and countless variations. Different schools of Tai Chi emphasis different aspects of the training. Some schools place more emphasis on the Martial Arts aspect of Tai Chi. Other schools place more emphasis on the healing aspects. Our school places it emphasis on the healing aspects of Tai Chi. We teach a balanced fitness approach to the Yang short form. The slow, gentle bodily motions coordinated with proper breathing can bring benefits to all ages. The no impact format of Tai Chi benefits the entire body, improving range of motion, increasing flexibility, enhancing strength and endurance. Significant improvements in balance are usually noticed within the first few sessions.

Our program is enjoyable for all ages.

One of our teachers stated, “Tai Chi was made for people. People were not made for Tai Chi.”

The basic Tai Chi movements can be done by nearly everyone. However, we also have a special modified program that can be done while seated in a chair. While everyone can benefit from Tai Chi, the practice is perhaps most valuable for the elderly or the out of shape desk worker, for whom traditional martial arts training is not accessible. Our program begins with simplified, basic movements that everyone can do. Variations are taught for some of the motions to make the postures more challenging for more advanced or more athletic students.

Tai Chi as been called moving mediation. Our Tai Chi classes consist of slow, group dance like motions. Concentrating the mind on the slow motions frees the mind of the worries of the day. 

The origins of Tai Chi are lost in Chinese history with many groups claiming to be its originator. Documentation of some Tai Chi forms has been found in the 1600’s. The Yang forms derive from the 1800’s, while the modern simplifications to the Short Form did not occur until the 1900’s.

No special uniform is required in our Tai Chi class. However clothing that permits freedom of motion is recommended.

Group classes are schedule Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M. Cost is $60.00 per month.

Private classes are available by appointment.