TAI CHI
Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese exercise consisting of slow, relaxed movements for total self-development. It is also a preventative and curative branch of Chinese medicine and is the “Supreme Ultimate” system of martial arts known as a soft-form martial art.
For the body, it is an exercise;
For the mind, a study in concentration, willpower, and visualization;
For the soul, it is a system of spiritual meditation.
Anyone can do Tai Chi, regardless of age or physical ability. Each movement can be modified to meet a student’s specific level of ability and the depth to which each person wishes to study Tai Chi is a very personal goal.
Part of Mary’s passion involves the 5 Element Theory of Chinese medicine as well as energy flow using Tai Chi movement and principles. She specializes in Yang Style Tai Chi with detailed classes in the Yang Style Long Form. Mary loves to help people learn Tai Chi, figuring the learning style that best aids a person to do Tai Chi. Mary’s classes are interactive, relaxed, fun providing details and depth.
QIGONG
Qigong (pronounced “chee gong”) is a collective term for a host of Chinese health practices that date back at least 4000 years.
It is a system of movement, breathing, imagery, self-massage, and meditation designed to promote longevity and health. Routinely practiced, qigong fosters physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing.
Qigong is the combination of two Chinese words. “Qi” means “life energy” which is the animating energy that flows through everything. “Gong” means “benefits acquired through perseverance and practice.” Qigong teaches a person to generate and control the flow and distribution of Qi to improve health. Another way to conceptualize Qigong is: Practices that encourage Qi development and harmony within the body.
Qigong is the umbrella term that covers several methods of working with Qi. There are four main categories of Qigong according to the purpose or goal a person has in practicing Qigong:
Maintaining Health
Curing Sickness
Martial Skill Development
Enlightenment
Almost every style of Qigong serves more than one of these categories. Tai Chi, for instance, is a martial Qigong and can be used for self defense, as well as maintaining health.
Medical Qigong broadens the basic Qigong concept to include Chinese 5 Element Theory, Acupressure, Qigong Massage, positive mental attitude, and meditation.
Benefits of Qigong
The benefits of Qigong are immense for improving and/or maintaining health and wellness, including physical and mental balance. Regardless of age or physical health, Qigong can be modified to the individual and still improve health. Working with a qualified master who understands Qigong sets and practices is invaluable in helping each person meet their individual goals.
Qigong takes time, dedication and perseverance to gain an in-depth understanding of how energy flows in the body. Through disciplined practice, students are able to reap many benefits to enhance their lives, some of which may include improving mood, flexibility, and concentration as well as the ability to manage stress, lowering blood pressure, and enhancing one’s overall sense of well-being.
Mary has the core belief that teaching not only the how but the why behind Qigong allows students to take a strong core of skills home with them, allowing integration of the physical (the how) and the emotional (the why) into their daily lives.
Class Schedule & Fees
8 Class Pass – $80
| Wednesday | 12:30 – 1:30 pm | Tai Chi |
| Friday | 11:00 am – Noon | Qigong |