Introduction to Tai Chi

A group class will be given that introduces one to a brief history of the

origins of Tai Chi and the styles that have evolved through the years. An overview

of the many health benefits that have been shown to come from practicing Tai Chi

will also be discussed. This will be followed by an approximately 25-minute lesson

that will introduce several of the beginning movements of the Yang short form. The

concept of Qi (or chi) as the life force that flows through us, and the need for it to

be aligned and flow through unobstructed in order to maintain optimal health will

be explained and the lower dantian (or energy center) which is the focus of most of

the movements in Tai Chi will be introduced. This is located in the body's center of

mass, and when connecting with it a stability is formed that allows for a smooth

flow of transitions through the various forms. Some of the main principles of Tai

Chi that help one understand and connect with the movements like ‘relaxing the

waist’, ‘separating empty and full’ when shifting from one leg to another, and

using ‘intent rather than force’ will also be discussed and practiced.