A new Tai Chi club is opening on 23rd April at the BHASVIC Sixth Form College,
Dyke Road, East Sussex, Hove, BN3 6EG
6:30-8pm on Wednesday evenings,
Beginners are welcome.
Contact us for more details
Category: Tai Chi
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A new Tai Chi club in Brighton
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Easter Course 2025 in Cornwall
A week of Tai Chi in the vibrant seaside town of Falmouth in Cornwall
Monday 14th & Tuesday 15th 12:30 to 5pm
Wednesday 16th to Friday 18th April 2025 10 am to 4 pm
Golf Club, Above the Bay, Swanpool Rd, Falmouth TR11 5PRBeginners are welcome
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Tai Chi in St Pancras
Class with BCS taken at YMCA Central A set of four classes run in conjunction with British Chinese Society (BCS). Beginners and new comers are welcome to try Lee Style tai chi as taught by Chee Soo with Taoist Cultural Arts Association.
When: Saturdays, 12:00 – 13:00, 13 April, 20 April, 27 April, 4 May
Location: The Living Centre, St Pancras and Somers Town, Francis Crick Institute, 2 Ossulston Street, London, NW1 1DF – ground floor activity room. Reduced fee available to local residents of London borough of Camden, courtesy of #CamdenGiving #WeMakeCamden
Walk-ins are welcome or sign up in advanced on MeetUp.com
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BCS event on Sunday
Introduction to Lee Style Tai Chi as taught by @Seahorse_Arts and @CheeSoo. Beginners and newcomers are welcome to join this session. Supported by #WeMakeCamden. Sign up via #MeetUp
Sunday 26th November 12:30-13:30
To sign up for the event https://www.meetup.com/the-bcs/events/296790525
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Tai Chi in Camden
The first ever Lee style Tai Chi club in the West was originally in Holborn in Camden, but that was as far back as 1930 when Chan Kam Lee, a diamond merchant from Shandong province in China, taught some of his close friends in a small private class in a schoolroom in Red Lion Square, later to be joined by Chee Soo.
Looking forward to my next introduction to Lee style Tai Chi session with @bcsbritishchinesesociety on Saturday 28 October, 12:30pm at Kings Cross Brunswick Neighbourhood Association. Sign up to attend at https://www.meetup.com/the-bcs/events/296447926
Here’s some photos from last month’s session. Thank you for your enthusiasm and making some long journeys’ into London especially to attend
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Free Daily training on Youtube
Welcome to Our Daily Tai Chi and Qigong Training
Are you looking to enhance your physical well-being, mental acuity, and overall sense of vitality? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Our daily Tai Chi and Qigong training is your gateway to a healthier and more harmonious life. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, our online lessons are designed to cater to your needs and take you on a journey of transformation.
Embrace the Power of Daily Practice
Daily practice has the remarkable ability to infuse your life with energy and balance. It’s not just about a one-time experience; it’s about a gradual, daily transformation that uplifts your well-being. As you join our community of practitioners, you’ll embark on a journey where every day is an opportunity to feel more vibrant and alive.
The Essence of Tai Chi and Qigong
Tai Chi and Qigong are ancient practices that have been passed down through generations. They offer a holistic approach to well-being by focusing on the body, mind, and spirit. The gentle movements, deep breathing, and meditative aspects of these practices work in harmony to unlock your body’s hidden potential.
Discover Your Daily Options
We understand that everyone’s needs and schedules are different. That’s why we offer a variety of online lessons to suit your preferences:
1. Beginner Level I and II Video Playlists
If you’re new to Tai Chi and Qigong, our Beginner Level I and II video playlists provide the perfect starting point. You’ll explore the foundational movements and breathing techniques that make these practices so effective.
2. Video Options to Suit Your Preferences
We provide a range of video options to ensure a seamless and enjoyable learning experience:
– 4K 360° Videos
Step into an immersive world with our 4K 360° videos. These videos allow you to explore your surroundings from different angles, enhancing your practice.
– HD Videos
For those with limited bandwidth, our HD videos offer clear and high-quality content without compromising your internet connection.
– Short 30-Minute Playlists
We understand that time can be a constraint. Our 30-minute playlists are designed for those with busy schedules, offering quick and effective sessions to give you an energy boost.
3. Longer Playlists Include:
For those who prefer more extensive practice sessions, we have 45 and 60-minute options. These longer sessions offer a comprehensive experience and include the following elements:
– Warming Up
Begin your practice by preparing your body for the exercises ahead. Our warm-up routines help you loosen up and get ready to flow with energy.
– Daoyin Deep Breathing
The Daoyin deep breathing exercise is essential for awakening your primary energy center, known as the Dantian, located in the lower abdomen. Feel your energy start to flow and invigorate you.
– Kai Men Qigong
Kai Men, also known as “opening the door,” is a pivotal step in your practice. It activates the meridians, allowing energy to flow freely throughout your body.
– Tai Chi Dance Loops (1-10 and 1-20 Moves)
Experience the graceful movements of Tai Chi dance loops. These sequences enhance your balance, focus, and energy flow.
– Tai Chi Form (First 3 and 6 Sequence Loops)
Delve into the meditative aspects of Tai Chi with our form sequences. This is where you’ll find tranquility and inner harmony.
– Five Lotus Blossoms Qi Cutoff Exercise
Conclude your practice with the Five Lotus Blossoms exercise, returning your awakened energy to the center for future use.
Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel
Stay up-to-date with our latest uploads by subscribing to our YouTube channel. Join our community of practitioners and embark on a journey of self-discovery and inner balance. Subscribing ensures you’ll never miss a session and provides access to a wealth of information and insights.
Awakening Your Qi with Tai Chi and Qigong
Much like the Lotus flower opens with the rising of the sun, your daily energy can awaken through our transformative Qigong and Tai Chi program. Your Qi flows most harmoniously when your body is relaxed. That’s why our program begins with a focus on loosening up, allowing your energy to flow freely. Here’s what to expect:
Starting with Relaxation
The key to enhancing your Qi is to begin with relaxation. Our practice begins with exercises designed to loosen up your body and create a sense of calm.
Daoyin Deep Breathing
The next step is the Daoyin deep breathing exercise. This practice helps awaken your primary energy center, known as the Dantian, located in the lower abdomen. It’s the source of your vital energy.
Kai Men Qigong: Opening the Channels
Kai Men, also known as “opening the door,” plays a crucial role in your practice. It activates the body’s meridians, allowing your energy to flow freely through the channels.
Tai Chi Dance: Flowing Movement
We guide you through the graceful movements of the Tai Chi dance, also known as Tiaowu. This flowing movement form allows you to connect with your energy and balance your body and mind.
Meditative Tai Chi Form
As you progress, you’ll delve into the meditative Tai Chi form. It’s a peaceful and introspective segment of our practice that deepens your connection with your inner self.
Returning Energy to the Center
Our practice concludes with the Five Lotus Blossoms Qi cutoff exercise, returning your awakened energy to the center. It’s here that your energy is stored, ready for use whenever you need it.
Build Your Qi Daily with Tai Chi and Qigong
Are you ready to unlock your hidden potential and embark on a transformative journey? Our Tai Chi and Qigong exercises hold the key to enhancing your physical flexibility, stamina, mental acuity, and overall well-being. With daily practice, you’ll experience a remarkable transformation:
A Vibrant Daily Routine
Imagine a daily routine that not only enhances your physical well-being but also elevates your mental and emotional state. The practice of Tai Chi and Qigong introduces a new vibrancy to your life.
Day-to-Day Transformation
As you embark on this journey, you’ll notice immediate benefits. Your awareness sharpens, and you’ll experience an energizing flow throughout your body. This newfound energy enhances your day-to-day life.
Sustained Energy Levels
The magic of our Tai Chi and Qigong practice is its ability to provide you with sustained energy. With consistent daily practice, you’ll feel your energy levels grow day by day.
Control Over Your Energy
Tai Chi and Qigong empower you with control over your energy. You’ll have it at your disposal when needed and safely stored when it’s not required.
The Essence of Taoist Energy Training
The practices we offer draw from the ancient wisdom of Taoist energy training methods. These methods are designed to help you unlock your true potential and achieve a state of balance and harmony.
Start Your Transformation Today
The path to a vibrant and energetic life is within your reach. Don’t wait any longer. Begin your journey of transformation with our Tai Chi and Qigong exercises today and take your life to the next level.
Unleash your potential and experience the daily awakening of your Qi with us. Our YouTube playlists are your gateway to a life filled with vitality and harmony.
Beginners level one
High bandwidth version (4k video)
Beginners playlist in 4k panoramic view for high bandwidth users Low bandwidth version (HD video)
Beginners level one in HD for low bandwidth users -
Frequently Asked Questions
Chee Soo taught Tai Chi in South Wales. General Questions
What is Tai Chi?
Tai Chi is a Chinese martial art and internal style exercise that incorporates slow, fluid movements, deep breathing, and meditation.
What are the benefits of Tai Chi?
Tai Chi can enhance balance, flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular health while reducing stress, anxiety, and depression.
Is Tai Chi a martial art or meditation?
Tai Chi is both a martial art and meditation, with some instructors focusing on self-defense and others on health and wellness.
How does Tai Chi differ from other exercises?
Tai Chi is a low-impact, low-intensity exercise that is gentle on joints and suitable for all genders, ages, and fitness levels. It emphasizes meditation, relaxation, and fluid movements while cultivating Qi or life force, unlike external styles that focus on physical strength and muscle development.
Tai Chi Practice
What is needed to begin Tai Chi?
All you need is comfortable clothing and enough space to move around. Practicing barefoot or wearing soft-soled shoes is up to personal preference.
How often should Tai Chi be practiced?
For best results, practice Tai Chi at least two to three times a week. However, even once a week can provide benefits. In China, many practice Tai Chi daily before work.
Should I warm up before Tai Chi?
Warming up before Tai Chi is recommended to prevent injury and improve performance. Light stretching, walking, or gentle exercises along with deep breathing and Qigong can help prepare your body and open energy channels.
Can Tai Chi be practiced solo or with a partner?
Tai Chi can be practiced alone, following choreographed movements, or with a partner, focusing on martial arts techniques and self-defense strategies. A balanced emphasis on both forms and partner exercises is encouraged.
What should I wear for Tai Chi?
Wear loose, comfortable clothing made of breathable fabrics like cotton. Tai Chi uniforms based on Chinese Mandarin style designs are also an option, suitable for beginners and advanced students alike.
Tai Chi Techniques
What are the fundamental Tai Chi movements?
Tai Chi movements stress natural movement, including an upright posture, relaxed shoulders, not overextending steps or locking joints, and avoiding overexertion. Movements are always circular.
How can I perform Tai Chi movements correctly?
Perform Tai Chi movements slowly, smoothly, and with intention, focusing on breathing, body alignment, and energy flow.
What is the proper Tai Chi breathing technique?
Deep, slow, and natural breathing is key, inhaling through the nose and exhaling through the mouth. Breathe in during inward movements and out during outward movements.
How do I maintain balance during Tai Chi?
Focus on body alignment, keeping weight centered, and moving slowly and smoothly. Coordinate the upper and lower body and avoid leaning.
Tai Chi Styles
Which style is taught at Cardiff Tai Chi?
At Cardiff Tai Chi, we teach the Lee style, as taught by our teacher Chee Soo.
What are the various Tai Chi styles?
Tai Chi styles include traditional family styles, modern composite styles, and various variants designed by individual teachers. Some styles emphasize order and regimented techniques, while others are more free-style or incorporate both elements.
What characterizes each Tai Chi style?
- Yang: gentle, flowing, with large stances and leaning
- Chen: explosive, vigorous, akin to Shaolin kung fu
- Wu: gentle, compact, with smaller stances
- Sun: light and agile
- Hao: fast and compact
- Lee: a balance between Yin and Yang
How do I select the right Tai Chi style?
Choose a Tai Chi style based on your goals, physical abilities, and preferences. Experiment with different styles to find one that resonates.
Tai Chi Instructors
Is a Tai Chi instructor necessary for learning?
Yes
How do I find a qualified Tai Chi instructor?
Join our Tai Chi club, there’s a well qualified instructor who runs the show. For those living outside Cardiff, visit our Association’s website.
What should I look for in a Tai Chi instructor?
Seek instructors who have completed a formal training program, have teaching experience, and possess knowledge of Tai Chi principles and techniques. It is also important to find an instructor whose teaching style resonates with you.
Conclusion
Tai Chi is a wonderful practice for physical and mental health that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels. With proper guidance and consistent practice, you can experience numerous benefits, such as improved balance, flexibility, strength, and mental well-being. When taught correctly, Tai Chi also serves as an ancient and powerful form of self-defense training, increasing your chances of survival if attacked, even from the first lesson.
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Finding your Qi
Qi is a super important idea in Chinese culture and traditional medicine. It’s the building block of everything – solids, liquids, gases, and even things like light and magnetism. Basically, the whole universe is made up of Qi.
When it comes to Tai Chi, we’re mainly talking about your own personal Qi. It’s like having a battery pack inside you that keeps your body, mind, and spirit energized. Qi is a big deal in ancient Chinese medicine, and it’s often called “life force” or “vital energy.” Every living thing has Qi flowing through it. In traditional Chinese medicine, Qi moves through the body along pathways called jingluo (经络) or meridians, which are connected to our organs. Qi is also stored in vessels throughout the body that act like energy buffers. When Qi flows smoothly, you’re healthy and balanced. But when it gets blocked or runs low, you can end up with physical, mental, and spiritual problems.
In Tai Chi, Qi is like the energy that powers your body’s movements. It flows through your body, creating a sense of harmony and balance. The whole point of practicing Tai Chi is to get your Qi flowing freely and in sync.
The Three Treasures
In traditional Chinese medicine, there are three super important substances called The Three Treasures: Jing, Qi, and Shen.
- Jing: Jing is the stored essence of your body, including your bones, marrow, and reproductive fluids. It’s mainly stored in your kidneys but can also be found in your bone marrow, brain, and energy meridians.
- Qi: Qi is ruled by your lungs and comes from Clean Air Qi, Food Qi, and Ancestral Qi (also known as Kidney Yin or Jing). Your lungs also make Wei Qi, which is a special kind of defensive Qi that protects your body from outside invaders.
- Shen: Shen is all about your spirit or consciousness, including your emotions, thoughts, and perceptions. Shen hangs out in your heart and is made up of five different Shens that live in different organs. These five Shens are linked to the five elements (water, wood, fire, earth, and metal) and have emotions that go along with each element.
The three treasures are all connected, and each one affects the others. For example, when your Jing is strong and healthy, it can help build up your Qi and Shen. When your Qi is flowing smoothly, it can nourish your Jing and support your body’s health. When your Shen is calm and peaceful, it can help balance your Qi and Jing.
In Tai Chi, working on your Qi helps bring harmony and balance to all three treasures, leading to better health and well-being.
How to Grow Your Qi with Tai Chi
There are lots of ways to work on your Qi in Tai Chi. Here are some key things to remember:
- Relaxation: Keep it chill when you’re doing Tai Chi and Qigong movements. Your body and mind should be relaxed. Don’t use force or muscle power, as tension can block your Qi flow. Just let go of any stress.
- Breathing exercises: Your breath is closely connected to Qi. In Tai Chi, breathe slowly, deeply, and relaxed. Focus on exhaling fully to get rid of stale air and toxins. Deep breathing helps bring more energy into your body and stimulates your internal organs.
- Concentration: Tai Chi is like a moving meditation. Focus on your movements and how your body feels, letting distractions fade away. This helps guide Qi around your body and improves blood flow.
- Chang Ming Taoist diet: Eat fresh, organic whole foods that are in season and packed with nutrients. This helps nourish your body and promote healthy Qi. Junk foods, processed foods, and additives can be tough on your digestive system and block Qi from flowing properly. Overeating can also cause problems, as it makes your body work harder to supply energy. So, stick to eating just what you need and don’t overdo it. Food is meant to give your body Qi, not just be a form of entertainment.
- Massage: Anmo is a type of energy meridian massage used in health and massage classes. Your internal organs make Qi from Food Qi, Clean Air Qi, and Ancestral Qi. Massaging the energy meridians connected to your organs stimulates energy flow throughout your body. Loosening up your muscles and tendons also helps Qi and blood reach every part of your body.
- Emotions: In Chinese medicine, emotions can cause imbalances in your organs. Bottling up emotions can lead to problems later on. Excessive emotions can also damage your organs and make your energy flow go haywire. Learning to recognize what causes emotional outbursts and practicing relaxation techniques can help improve your Qi storage.
- Nature: For the best Qi development, do Tai Chi outside, ideally under a tree. This is where you can absorb more Li or macrocosmic energy and mix it with your personal Qi. There’s also Qi that flows through your body from external sources, like the Earth and the sky. Spending too much time indoors can block this extra energy and make you feel sick and run down more often.
Benefits of Working on Your Qi in Tai Chi
Growing your Qi in Tai Chi can do wonders for your physical, mental, and emotional health. Here are just a few examples:
- Improved Energy: When Qi flows freely, you’ll feel more energized and less tired.
- Reduced Stress: Tai Chi has been shown to help reduce stress and anxiety, which is great for your overall health and well-being.
- Better Balance: Tai Chi movements are slow and careful, which can help improve your balance and lower the risk of falls, especially for older folks.
- Stronger Immune System: Building up your Qi can boost your immune system, helping to keep you healthy and fight off illness.
In a nutshell, growing your Qi is a key part of Tai Chi practice. It can improve your physical, mental, and emotional health and plays a big role in the overall benefits of Tai Chi. By focusing on relaxation, breath control, mindfulness, and visualization during your practice, you can boost your Qi flow and enjoy all the benefits that come with it.
If you’re interested in learning more about Tai Chi and how to grow your Qi, think about joining a Tai Chi class. A skilled instructor can guide you through the movements and help you understand the role of Qi in Tai Chi. With regular practice and dedication, you can tap into the power of Qi and enjoy all the amazing benefits Tai Chi has to offer.
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Top ten reasons for taking up Tai Chi
Tai Chi is a form of exercise that originated in China and has been practiced for centuries. It involves slow, gentle movements that are coordinated with deep breathing and focused attention. Tai Chi is considered a low-impact exercise that can be practiced by people of all ages and fitness levels.
Here are the top ten reasons why you should consider doing Tai Chi:1. Sharpened Mental Clarity and Focus
Tai Chi helps you develop a proper clear head and focus through its deliberate, purposeful movements. Regular Tai Chi practice can result in better concentration, improved thinking skills, and stronger decision-making abilities. These mental benefits are great for anyone, helping you get ahead in tasks that need attention and critical thinking.
2. Quicker Reflexes
Tai Chi makes you more aware of your body and strengthens the connection between your mind and body, leading to faster reflexes. This improvement can be helpful in loads of situations, from navigating a busy place to taking part in competitive sports or activities that need quick reactions.
3. Boosted Discipline and Determination
Practicing Tai Chi takes commitment and consistency, helping you build discipline and determination. These skills can be applied to loads of aspects of life, contributing to achieving personal goals, academic success, and getting ahead in work.
4. Elevated Energy Levels and Mood
Tai Chi has been shown to boost your energy levels and improve your mood. The mix of physical movement and mental focus leads to a feeling of being invigorated and well. This positive effect on mood and energy can help you face challenges with more enthusiasm and optimism, boosting your performance in both your personal and professional life.
5. Augmented Athletic Prowess
Tai Chi can complement other sports and physical activities by improving your balance, flexibility, and coordination. These skills can make you better at sports, making you more competitive and skilled in your chosen activities.
6. Creative Expression and Personal Growth
The flowing movements and artistic nature of Tai Chi offer a chance for creative expression and personal growth. As you learn to coordinate your body and mind, you can explore new ways of moving and expressing yourself, leading to a deeper understanding of your physical and emotional self.
7. Social Connections and Support
Tai Chi is often practiced in groups, giving you the chance to connect with others who share similar interests. This social side can help build friendships, a sense of belonging, and a supportive community that contributes to your overall well-being.
8. Enhanced Physical Health and Qi Flow
Regular Tai Chi practice can lead to better heart health, stronger muscles, and reduced inflammation by promoting the flow of Qi throughout the body. These physical health benefits contribute to a stronger immune system, lower risk of chronic diseases, and better overall fitness. The harmonious flow of Qi also supports your body’s natural healing processes.
9. Qi Cultivation for Stress Relief and Relaxation
Tai Chi is an effective way to manage stress and promote relaxation by cultivating and balancing your Qi. The slow, meditative movements of Tai Chi help to calm the mind and reduce anxiety, improving your overall well-being and resilience to daily stressors.
10. Unlocking Your Full Potential through Qi Mastery
By practicing Tai Chi, you’ll be learning the art of Qi cultivation and mastery. This skill allows you to tap into your body’s full potential, leading to increased vitality, mental clarity, and an overall sense of well-being. When your Qi is balanced and flowing, you can experience life with more energy and enthusiasm, ready to tackle any challenges that come your way.
In summary, Tai Chi offers a unique blend of physical and mental benefits, with a strong emphasis on the cultivation and balance of Qi. By regularly practicing Tai Chi, you can improve various aspects of your life, from mental focus and athletic prowess to social connections and personal growth. Experience the transformative power of Tai Chi and unlock your full potential by joining our classes today!
Tai Chi is a beautiful and enriching practice that can help you connect with your body, mind, and spirit. Whether you’re young or old, fit or out of shape, there’s something in Tai Chi for everyone. So why not come along to the class and give it a try? With a little time, patience, and dedication, you can experience the many benefits of this ancient practice and enjoy a happier, healthier life.