October 29, 2016

What is Tai Chi

Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese martial art practiced today as a gentle, flowing form of exercise that promotes balance, relaxation, and overall well‑being. Movements are performed slowly and smoothly, coordinated with deep, mindful breathing. This creates a calm, meditative experience while still offering meaningful physical benefits.

Tai Chi is non‑competitive, low‑impact, and self‑paced, making it suitable for adults of all ages and fitness levels. Because it places minimal stress on the joints and muscles, it is especially ideal for older adults or anyone looking for a safe and accessible way to stay active.

Each posture transitions seamlessly into the next, creating a continuous sequence of movement supported by strong, grounded footwork. Although the body is always in motion, Tai Chi cultivates an inner stillness, helping practitioners develop focus, balance, and body awareness.

Training includes:

  • Gentle physical postures
  • Coordinated breathing techniques
  • Meditative awareness
  • Principles and concepts of traditional Tai Chi
  • Sequencing of the form to develop skill and understanding

Our classes focus on developing the core methodology of Tai Chi — its principles, structure, and internal qualities — while building the physical attributes associated with martial arts. The result is a practice that supports both health and personal development, offering benefits that extend far beyond the training hall.

Tai Chi’s movements look soft and simple on the surface, but underneath them is a sophisticated internal framework — a set of principles that govern how the body, breath, and mind work together. These principles are what transform Tai Chi from “slow exercise” into a profound internal martial art.