Tai Chi Chuan is an Internal Chinese Martial Art often practiced
for health and meditation. It consists of slow, centered movements that
develop good balance, coordination and proper breathing.
One begins with the study of a simplified Yang Family
form.
The focus is not so much on the "end forms" or “postures” themselves,
but rather how the postures connect and fit together, studying the
moving aspects of the form between the parts. Advanced students have
the option to study the Yang Cheng Fu long form if interested.
Students also practice various Chi Kung forms (both Nei
Kung and Wai Kung) or "energy work", which are internal exercises
that condition the student for the Tai Chi form. Chi Kung consists
mostly of static postures held for a period of time. As the
student gets accustomed to these postures, small weights may be used to
increase the intensity and benefit of the exercise.
Tai Chi is for everyone. It is great exercise for
all ages and anyone looking to improve their physical, mental and
spiritual health and also works very well as a complimentary or
secondary art as it promotes proper body structure, movement principles
and improved balance and coordination.
Tai Chi is a sub-class of
Nei Jia (Neijar),
collectively known as the Internal Family of Chinese Kung Fu. It
is offered to those more interested in form, low impact exercise and
health maintenance rather than the actual application or the martial
components of the art.
Sifu Douglas
Lawrence may also be
contacted at
dlawrence@itama.org
for
Private Lessons in the East Lansing, Michigan area.
