Introduction to our tai chi
The form itself is taught in two parts - a short form of 20 minutes and an extension making a long form of around 40 minutes. The extension can be practiced on its own thus giving variety to ones practice.
It is practiced very slowly and is co-ordinated with the breath. It is very beautiful to watch and to perform. It is very moderate with no high kicks, awkward positions or movements - indeed all movements can be said to be natural and easy. It is the slowness of the form which creates the challenge and if practiced correctly, allows the chi to move freely throughout the body.
Practicing in a class is a good way to maintain a regular practice discipline and seeing how other people of different shapes, fitness, ability adapt the form to their own needs is a very enlightening experience. Being in a class also is a reminder that you are always a beginner and it is never too late to change your ways.
Sometimes you can add flourishes without realizing it and in a group practice session you can often observe these flourishes in others and recognizes them as mistakes or un-necessary additions. Retaining the purity of the form and yet adding your own stamp on it so that it becomes your own form is a challenge and a worthy ambition.
Latest News
Tai Chi background
Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese system of slowly flowing movements and shifts of balance that strengthens the legs while conditioning the tendons and ligaments of the ankles, knees, and hips, increasing their range of motion and making them more resilient, less prone to injury.
The Kua and the physiology
The kua has a philosophical importance but the physiology behind this is worth examining.
Update to the Posture Names
Updated Posture Names added in the Form Postures section.
New website launched
This is a new relaunched website.
