Tai Chi Week

At The Falmouth Hotel

Castle Beach, Cliff Road, Falmouth, TR11 4GD

Monday 28th – Friday 1st August 2025

• A week of Tai Chi and Qigong
• Each day will be 10am – 4 p.m

Summer Term Tai Chi and Qigong at the Zedshed is every Wednesday evening 7:45 to 9:15 pm, beginners are welcome to join at any time during the term. You can pay on the day for one lesson or block book for a discount. You can pay online with your debit or credit card, paypal or bank transfer, or book online and pay at the class in cash.

Qi is a fundamental concept in Chinese culture and traditional medicine. Everything is composed of Qi, solids, liquids, gasses, rarefied energy forms like electromagnetism, light, and plasma, in fact, the entire Universe is composed of Qi.

However, the kind of Qi that is of primary importance in Tai Chi is your own personal Qi which can be thought of as a kind of battery pack inside you that is constantly supplying your body mind, and spirit with energy. This is the Qi that is referred to in the Neijing or Yellow Emperor’s classic of internal medicine, the classic of ancient Chinese medicine, often translated as “life force” or “vital energy,” and is the vital essence of all living things. According to traditional Chinese medicine, Qi flows through the body along specific pathways known as jingluo (经络) or meridians which are associated with the internal organs. Qi is also stored in vessels throughout the body that act as reservoirs or energy buffers. When Qi is flowing freely, a person is healthy and balanced. When Qi is blocked or deficient, mental, physical and spiritual illness and disease can occur.

In Tai Chi, Qi is often described as the energy that powers the movements of the body. It flows through the body in a smooth and continuous manner, creating a sense of internal harmony and balance. The goal of Tai Chi practice is to cultivate and harmonize Qi, allowing it to flow freely throughout the body.

The Three Treasures

In traditional Chinese medicine, Jing, Qi and Shen are three fundamental substances known as The Three Treasures.

Jing is the stored essence of the body, including the bones, marrow, and reproductive fluids. Jing is stored in the kidneys and can also be found in the bone marrow, the brain, and the energy meridians, especially the extraordinary vessels or eight extra meridians which act as buffers for the Qi.

Qi is ruled by the lungs, it is derived from Clean air Qi, Food Qi, and Ancestral Qi also known as kidney Yin or Jing (Essence). The lungs also produce Wei Qi which is a special layer of defensive Qi that protects the outer surface of the body from invasion by pathogenic factors.

Shen is the spirit or consciousness, including emotions, thoughts, and perceptions. Shen is stored in the Heart and is composed of five Shens, each of which resides in a particular organ. These five aspects of Shen are associated with the five elements (water, wood, fire, earth, and metal) and have emotional qualities that correspond to each element. For example, the Shen associated with the Liver is associated with the Wood element and is believed to influence emotions such as anger, frustration, and creativity. Similarly, the Shen associated with the Kidneys is associated with the Water element and is believed to influence emotions such as fear, wisdom, and willpower.

The three treasures are intimately connected, and each one affects the others. For example, when Jing is strong and healthy, it can support the cultivation of Qi and Shen. When Qi is flowing freely, it can nourish Jing and support the health of the body. When Shen is calm and peaceful, it can help to harmonize Qi and Jing.

In Tai Chi, the cultivation of Qi is seen as a way to harmonize and balance all three treasures, leading to improved health and well-being.

Cultivating Qi

There are many ways to cultivate Qi in Tai Chi practice. Here are some key principles to keep in mind:

1. Relaxation: Tai Chi and Qigong movements should be performed in a relaxed and fluid manner. The body should be relaxed but also the mind. Avoiding using force or muscle power. Tension in the body can block the flow of Qi, so it is important to let go of any unnecessary tension.
2. Breathing exercises: The breath is closely connected to Qi. In Tai Chi, the breath should be slow, deep, and relaxed, with an emphasis on exhaling fully to release stale air and toxins from the body. Deep breathing expands the lung capacity and the lungs draw energy into the body from the air so more capacity means more Qi. Also, deep breathing stimulates and massages the internal organs and this improves their ability to supply Qi.
3. Concentration: Tai Chi is often described as a moving meditation. It is important to focus the mind on the movements and sensations of the body, allowing distractions to fade away. Where the mind goes the Qi follows so concentrating on the Tai Chi movements helps guide Qi around the body and improves the blood flow.
4. Chang Ming Taoist diet – Eating fresh, organically grown whole foods that are in season and are high in nutrients can nourish the body and promote healthy qi. Some foods tax the digestive system and so less Qi is then derived from food. So junk foods, processed foods, additives, flavourings, colourings and preservatives all create a toxic residue in your body and it takes energy to eliminate it. These toxins also clog up the meridians, the organs and the blood vessels and so prevent Qi from flowing. Overeating increases obesity and this means carrying more weight around. The increase in body size means blood has to flow further and work harder to keep everything supplied with energy so only eat the necessary amounts and don’t overeat. Food is meant to supply the body with Qi and not as a form of entertainment.
5. Massage – Anmo is a type of energy meridian massage we use in our Health and Massage classes. The internal organs create Qi in the body from three sources, Food Qi, Clean air Qi, and ancestral Qi which is stored in the body and inherited from our forebears. The energy meridians are connected to the organs and massaging them stimulates the energy flow from the meridian and around the body. Also loosening up the muscles and tendons helps Qi and blood to reach every part of the body, blood flow is important too because Qi is also contained in the blood.
6. Emotions – In Chinese medicine emotions are a cause of imbalance in the organs. Suppressed emotions can build up in the body and cause problems when they resurface later on. Also, excessive emotions damage the organs and make the energy flow erratic. Recognizing the causes of emotional outbursts and learning relaxation techniques to balance emotional states will improve the storage of Qi.
7. Nature. For maximum Qi development do Tai Chi outside, preferably under a tree, this is where there is more Li or macrocosmic energy available to be absorbed and mixed with your own personal Qi. There is Qi that flows through your body from external sources, it comes up from the Earth and also down from the Sky above your head. If you stay indoors a lot you will find this supplementary energy gets masked and you get sick and run down more often.

Benefits of Cultivating Qi in Tai Chi Practice

Cultivating Qi in Tai Chi practice can have many benefits for your physical, mental, and emotional health. Here are just a few examples:

1. Improved Energy: When Qi is flowing freely, it can increase energy levels and reduce fatigue.
2. Reduced Stress: Tai Chi practice has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, which can be beneficial for overall health and well-being.
3. Improved Balance: Tai Chi movements are slow and deliberate, which can improve balance and reduce the risk of falls, especially in older adults.
4. Enhanced Immune Function: Cultivating Qi can boost the immune system, helping to prevent illness and disease.

In conclusion, the cultivation of Qi is an essential element of Tai Chi practice. Cultivating Qi can improve physical, mental, and emotional health, and is a key factor in the overall benefits of Tai Chi. By incorporating principles such as relaxation, breath control, mindfulness, and visualization into your Tai Chi practice, you can enhance the flow of Qi throughout your body and reap the many benefits that come with it.

If you’re interested in learning more about Tai Chi and how to cultivate Qi, consider joining a Tai Chi class. A skilled instructor can guide you through the movements and help you develop a deeper understanding of the role of Qi in Tai Chi practice. With regular practice and dedication, you can unlock the power of Qi and experience the many benefits that Tai Chi has to offer.

A new Tai Chi society has been formed at Falmouth and Exeter University Students’ Union. There are two classes per week one on each campus. Please visit the website and sign up if you are interested. Students can join the FXU Tai Chi Soc for £5.

Staff members and the public can join if they become associate members of the Students’ Union which costs £25 per year, sign up here.

Then the fee for joining the FXU Tai Chi Society is £10 payable annually, join here.

The benefits to students

The cultural revolution in China 1966-1976 saw Tai Chi outlawed and so a whole generation grew up without it, consequently Tai Chi classes can be seen as the doamin of seniors. This is actually an accident of history and Tai Chi is suitable for people all of types whatever age, gender, level of ability, nationality, beliefs or social standing.

Tai Chi and Qigong can be incredibly helpful for you as a university student, making it easier to handle the pressures of academic life while staying balanced and focused. These practices bring together the mind, body, and spirit, using gentle movements, deep breathing, and focused awareness. When you practice Tai Chi and Qigong, you’ll find that your ability to concentrate improves, allowing you to study for longer periods without feeling mentally exhausted. This sharper focus makes it easier to retain information and stay engaged with your coursework.

One of the best benefits you’ll experience is stress relief. University life can be intense, with assignments, exams, and deadlines piling up, but Tai Chi provides a way to release that tension. The slow, flowing movements help calm your mind and relax your body, making it easier for you to manage stress and stay emotionally balanced. With less stress, you’ll find yourself better equipped to handle the ups and downs of student life, keeping a more positive outlook even when things get tough.

Physically, Tai Chi and Qigong also improve your flexibility and balance. As you practice, you’ll loosen up tight muscles, increase your range of motion, and build resilience to the physical demands of everyday life. Plus, you’ll notice a boost in your energy levels, helping you feel more refreshed and ready to take on both your academic work and your social life without feeling drained.

Incorporating Tai Chi and Qigong into your routine can have a profound impact on your overall well-being. By doing so, you’ll enhance your focus, reduce stress, and maintain a positive, balanced mindset. Ultimately, these practices will help you manage the demands of university life with more energy and ease, allowing you to thrive both academically and personally.

Tai Chi and Memory: The Ancient Art of Enhancing Cognitive Function

A new study finds that Tai Chi has a proven effect on cognitive decline. In our fast-paced world, maintaining a sharp and vibrant memory is a top priority for many. As we age, our cognitive abilities often experience a natural decline, leading to memory issues and other cognitive challenges. Tai Chi, an ancient Chinese martial art, offers a unique approach to enhancing memory and cognitive function. In this blog post, we will delve into the fascinating connection between Tai Chi and memory, exploring its roots in Chinese medicine and the flow of qi, as well as the concept of jing and its links to memory. We will also discuss a recent study that supports the benefits of Tai Chi for memory enhancement.

Tai Chi and Chinese Medicine

Tai Chi is deeply rooted in Chinese medicine, a holistic system of healthcare that dates back thousands of years. Central to the philosophy of Chinese medicine is the concept of qi, or life force. Qi is believed to flow through the body along energy pathways called meridians, and any disruption in this flow can lead to physical and mental imbalances.

Tai Chi, often described as “meditation in motion,” is designed to enhance the flow of qi throughout the body. The slow, graceful movements of Tai Chi help to unblock any energy stagnation, allowing for a smoother and more harmonious flow of qi. This, in turn, is believed to support overall health, including cognitive function and memory.

Qi and Memory

Chinese medicine suggests that a balanced and abundant flow of qi contributes to optimal cognitive function. When the flow of qi is smooth and unrestricted, it nourishes the brain and improves its functioning. This nourishment is vital for memory retention and recall.

A study conducted by the University of Maryland Medical School, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, examined the effects of Tai Chi on cognitive function and memory in adults. The study involved participants who practiced Tai Chi regularly over a period of 6 months. The results demonstrated significant improvements in memory and cognitive performance among the Tai Chi practitioners compared to the control group.

Jing and the Water Element

In addition to the concept of qi, Chinese medicine also places great importance on the notion of “jing,” which is often associated with the water element. Jing is considered the essence of life and is closely linked to memory and cognitive functions. In Chinese medicine, the kidneys are believed to be the storage reservoirs of jing, and their health is paramount for memory preservation.

The slow, flowing movements of Tai Chi are said to support the kidneys and maintain the balance of jing, ultimately contributing to improved memory and cognitive function. Just as water nourishes the earth, Tai Chi nourishes the kidneys, ensuring they continue to store and release jing effectively.

The Study

The study conducted by the University of Maryland Medical School supported the Chinese medicine principles of jing and the water element. The findings revealed that Tai Chi not only enhanced memory but also showed a positive impact on kidney function, indirectly linking it to the preservation of jing.

Conclusion

Tai Chi, deeply rooted in Chinese medicine, is a holistic practice that enhances the flow of qi and supports the balance of jing, the essence of life. This ancient art form has been shown to have a positive impact on memory and cognitive function, as demonstrated in the University of Maryland Medical School study. If you’re looking to sharpen your memory, improve cognitive function, and embrace a healthier lifestyle, Tai Chi may be the perfect solution. Join our Tai Chi society and experience the benefits for yourself. By engaging in this beautiful practice, you’ll not only connect with the wisdom of Chinese medicine but also nurture your body, mind, and memory for years to come.