Cornwall Tai Chi

Category: Evening classes

  • FAQ

    FAQ

    Here are the frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Tai Chi along with their answers:

    General Questions

    1. What is Tai Chi?
      • Tai Chi is a soft internal style form of exercise that involves slow, flowing movements, deep breathing, and meditation.
    2. What are the benefits of practicing Tai Chi?
      • Tai Chi can improve balance, flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular health. It can also reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
    3. Is Tai Chi a martial art or a form of meditation?
      • Tai Chi is both a martial art and a form of meditation. Some teachers emphasize self-defense, and some teach it for health and wellness purposes.
    4. How is Tai Chi different from other forms of exercise?
      • Tai Chi is a low-impact, low-intensity exercise that is gentle on the joints and suitable for people of all genders, and all ages and fitness levels. It emphasizes meditation, relaxation, and slow, fluid movements. Tai Chi is known as an internal style which means cultivating Qi or life force in contrast to external styles which are more physical and develop the muscles.

    Tai Chi Practice

    1. What do I need to start practicing Tai Chi?
      • You only need comfortable clothing and enough space to move around. Some people prefer to practice barefoot, but soft-soled shoes are also an option.
    2. How often should I practice Tai Chi?
      • It is recommended to practice Tai Chi at least two to three times a week for the best results. However, even practicing once a week can provide some benefits. In China they practice Tai Chi every morning in the parks before going to work.
    3. Do I need to warm up before practicing Tai Chi?
      • It is recommended to warm up before practicing Tai Chi to prevent injury and improve performance. You can do some light stretching, walk around, or perform other gentle exercises to get your body ready. Warming up and doing some deep breathing and Qigong before you start helps to open the energy channels so your practice can benefit Qi cultivation rather than purely physical exercise.
    4. Can Tai Chi be practiced alone or with a partner?
      • Tai Chi can be practiced both alone or with a partner. When practicing alone, you follow a set of choreographed movements. When practicing with a partner, you practice specific martial arts techniques and self-defense strategies. Tai Chi is based on Taoist philosophy and so Yin-Yang balance means giving a balanced emphasis to both forms and partner exercises like sticky hands.
    5. What should I wear when practicing Tai Chi?
      • Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that allows for freedom of movement. Cotton or other breathable fabrics are a good choice. You can also buy a Tai Chi uniform based on a Chinese Mandarin style design which is popular with more advanced students but also suitable for beginners. This can help you get into the Tai Chi mindset.

    Tai Chi Techniques

    1. What are the basic Tai Chi movements?
      • Tai Chi movements emphasize natural movement, so this means an upright posture and a straight back, keep the shoulders relaxed, don’t step too far or lock the joints, and don’t overexert yourself. Tai Chi movements are always circular.
    2. How do I perform the Tai Chi movements correctly?
      • Tai Chi movements should be performed slowly, smoothly, and with intention. You should focus on your breathing, body alignment, and the flow of energy in your body.
    3. What is the proper breathing technique for Tai Chi?
      • Tai Chi breathing involves deep, slow, and natural breathing. You should inhale deeply through your nose and exhale slowly through your mouth. In the form breathe in on inwards movements and out on the outward movement.
    4. How do I maintain balance while practicing Tai Chi?
      • To maintain balance while practicing Tai Chi, you should focus on your body alignment, keep your weight centered, and move slowly and smoothly. Co-ordinate the upper and lower body and avoid leaning.

    Tai Chi Styles

    1. What style do you teach at Cornwall Tai Chi?
      • We teach Lee style as taught to us by our teacher Chee Soo.
    2. What are the different styles of Tai Chi?
      • There are several types of Tai Chi styles including traditional family styles and more modern composite styles which have been designed as fitness exercises by Chinese teachers. Some say there are as many variants as there are Tai Chi teachers. Some styles emphasize order and specific regimented techniques, some are more free-style, some include both elements.
    3. What are the characteristics of each Tai Chi style?
      • Yang style is gentle and flowing with big stances and leaning
      • Chen style is more explosive and vigorous like Shaolin kung fu
      • Wu style is more Yin, gentle, compact and smaller stances
      • Sun style is light and agile
      • Hao style is fast and compact
      • Lee style is a Yin and Yang style so somewhere in the middle
    4. How do I choose a Tai Chi style that is right for me?
      • You can choose a Tai Chi style based on your goals, physical abilities, and personal preferences. You can try different styles and see which one resonates

    Tai Chi Instructors

    1. Do I need a Tai Chi instructor to learn Tai Chi?
      • While it is possible to learn Tai Chi from videos or books, having a qualified instructor can help you learn the correct techniques, avoid injury, and deepen your practice.
    2. How do I find a qualified Tai Chi instructor?
    3. What qualifications should I look for in a Tai Chi instructor?
      • Look for instructors who have completed a formal instructor training program, have years of actual teaching experience, and are knowledgeable about Tai Chi principles and techniques. It’s also important to find an instructor who has a teaching style that resonates with you.

    Conclusion

    Tai Chi is a wonderful practice for both physical and mental health and can be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels. With the right guidance and consistent practice, you can experience the many benefits of Tai Chi, such as improved balance, flexibility, strength, and mental well-being. Tai Chi, if taught correctly, is also an ancient and powerful form of self-defence training that will greatly improve your chances of survival if attacked right from the first lesson.

  • Zedshed Tai Chi

    Zedshed Tai Chi

    Zedshed Tai Chi every Wednesday in Penryn

    This youtube video playlist will serve as a little window into the Zedshed class in Penryn to give you some idea of what it’s like in the class. If you click or touch the picture above you will see you can drag left or right to see what is going on in the rest of the room. You can in actual fact use this video playlist to practice what we did in the class at home so next time we can move onto the next sequence of moves, in this particular form there are 184, this is the first twenty.

    Every week we do some exercises like forms which we gradually build on from week to week. Beginners will start with the first ten moves. However some of the exercises will be different each week, and some we will concentrate on for a few weeks until we move on to another set of exercises. We have forms, qigong, breathing exercises, and partner exercises of many different varieties in Lee style Tai Chi so there’s plenty to interest both the beginner and the more advanced student.

  • Top ten reasons for doing Tai Chi

    Top ten reasons for doing Tai Chi

    Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese martial art that has become popular worldwide for its numerous health benefits. With its gentle, flowing movements, Tai Chi is a low-impact exercise that is suitable for people of all ages and both men and women of all fitness levels. In this blog post, we will explore the top ten reasons people do Tai Chi.

    1. Sharpened Mental Clarity and Focus

    Tai Chi aids in cultivating mental clarity and focus through its measured purposeful movements. Regular Tai Chi practice can result in heightened concentration, improved cognitive skills, and enhanced decision-making abilities. These mental benefits prove valuable for individuals engaged in various pursuits, helping them excel in tasks that require attention and critical thinking.

    2. Quicker Reflexes

    Tai Chi fosters greater body awareness and strengthens the connection between mind and body, leading to faster reflexes. This improvement can be advantageous in various situations, from navigating a busy environment to participating in competitive sports or activities requiring prompt reactions.

    3. Boosted Discipline and Determination

    Practicing Tai Chi demands commitment and consistency, fostering increased discipline and determination. These skills can be applied to various aspects of life, contributing to the successful pursuit of personal objectives, academic achievements, and career advancements.

    4. Elevated Energy Levels and Mood

    Tai Chi has been shown to boost energy levels and improve mood. The combination of physical movement and mental focus leads to a sense of invigoration and well-being. This positive effect on mood and energy can help individuals tackle challenges with greater enthusiasm and optimism, enhancing performance in both personal and professional spheres.

    5. Augmented Athletic Prowess

    Tai Chi can complement other sports and physical activities by improving balance, flexibility, and coordination. These attributes can enhance athletic performance, making individuals more competitive and skilled in their chosen activities.

    6. Creative Expression and Personal Growth

    The flowing movements and artistic nature of Tai Chi offer an opportunity for creative expression and personal growth. As practitioners learn to coordinate their body and mind, they can explore new ways of moving and expressing themselves, leading to a deeper understanding of their physical and emotional selves.

    7. Social Connections and Support

    Tai Chi is often practiced in group settings, providing opportunities to connect with others who share similar interests. This social aspect can foster friendships, a sense of belonging, and a supportive community that contributes to overall well-being.

    8. Enhanced Physical Health

    Regular Tai Chi practice can lead to better cardiovascular health, increased muscle strength, and reduced inflammation. These physical health benefits contribute to a stronger immune system, lower risk of chronic diseases, and improved overall fitness.

    9. Refined Posture and Core Strength

    Tai Chi can improve posture by strengthening core muscles and encouraging proper spinal alignment. The slow, controlled movements of Tai Chi also help develop body awareness, leading to better posture and alignment in everyday life.

    10. Alleviated Stress and Anxiety

    The practice of Tai Chi has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation and a sense of inner calm. The physical movements, combined with mental focus, help individuals develop resilience in dealing with life’s challenges and maintain a more balanced emotional state.

     

    In summary, Tai Chi offers a unique fusion of physical, mental, and emotional benefits that cater to a wide range of interests and goals. With its ability to sharpen mental focus, improve reflexes, and build discipline, Tai Chi can be a game-changer for those striving to excel in various aspects of life. Moreover, its capacity to elevate mood, enhance physical health, and foster social connections makes Tai Chi an invaluable practice for anyone seeking a well-rounded and fulfilling lifestyle. Joining a Tai Chi class could be the key to unlocking your full potential and achieving personal success.

  • BBC Radio Cornwall

    BBC Radio Cornwall

    James and Chris at BBC Radio Cornwall

    We were invited to BBC radio Cornwall in Truro last night to talk about our experiences as students and teachers of Tai Chi on the Tiffany Truscott show.

    Chris started learning Tai Chi with Chee Soo as a philosophy undergraduate at Warwick University. He set up a Tai Chi club for the University of Warwick Students’ Union and taught many students who went on set up Tai Chi clubs after graduating from the University. He also taught Tai Chi in Leamington, Warwick, Coventry, Birmingham and Stratford-upon-Avon. After moving to Cornwall in 2010 he taught Tai Chi in St Just, Penzance, Heartlands, St Ives and Falmouth.

    James took up Tai Chi to help deal with chronic pain after a traumatic road accident and now teaches a club in his hometown of St Agnes.

  • Sticky hands

    Sticky hands

    Sticky Hands, also known as Yīfù shǒu (依附手) is a fundamental exercise in Lee Style Tai Chi that is taught to beginners as a way to introduce them to the principles of Tai Chi and to prepare them for more advanced techniques. While some may see Sticky Hands as a simple exercise, it is actually a complex and multifaceted practice that offers a range of benefits for practitioners.

    Developing sensitivity

    One of the main aspects of Sticky Hands is the cultivation of sensitivity and connection with one’s partner. In the exercise, two practitioners stand facing each other and place their hands on each other’s forearms. They then begin to move their arms and bodies in unison, following each other’s movements and trying to maintain a constant connection. This requires a high level of sensitivity to the partner’s movements and intentions and helps to develop the ability to read and respond to subtle changes in body position and energy.

    Cultivating Qi

    Another aspect of Sticky Hands is the development of internal energy or qi. By maintaining a constant connection with their partner, practitioners learn to circulate their energy and to use it to guide and control their partner’s movements. This involves the use of spiraling movements, which help to increase the flow of energy through the body and to connect the upper and lower body.

    Learning to sense timing

    Sticky Hands also emphasizes the importance of timing and rhythm in Tai Chi. Practitioners must learn to move in sync with their partner, to maintain a constant flow of movement, and to execute techniques at the right moment. This requires a high level of concentration and focus, and helps to develop a sense of timing and rhythm that can be applied to other aspects of Tai Chi practice.

    The psychological aspect

    In addition to these physical aspects, Sticky Hands also has a number of mental and emotional benefits. The exercise requires practitioners to be present and focused, to let go of distracting thoughts and emotions, and to remain calm and centered even in the face of challenge or resistance from their partner. This level of mindfulness and emotional control can be applied to many different aspects of life, including work, relationships, and personal growth.

    Overall, Sticky Hands is a foundational practice in Lee Style Tai Chi that offers a range of benefits for both beginners and more advanced practitioners. By developing sensitivity, connection, internal energy, timing, and emotional control, practitioners can gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their interactions with others, both in the context of Tai Chi and in daily life. As such, it is an essential part of a holistic Tai Chi practice that emphasizes both solo and partner work as equally important in line with the Taoist principle of yin-yang balance.

    Principles of Sticky Hands

    1. Yielding: The first principle of sticky hands is yielding. Yielding means allowing your partner’s energy to flow into you without resisting or pushing back. When your partner pushes, you soften your joints and move with the push, rather than against it. Yielding is like bending like a tree in the wind instead of resisting and breaking.
    2. Listening: The second principle of sticky hands is listening. Listening means paying attention to your partner’s movements and responding accordingly. When your partner moves, you move with them, like a dance. Listening is like being a detective, trying to read your partner’s intentions and movements.
    3. Sticking: The third principle of sticky hands is sticking. Sticking means maintaining contact with your partner and keeping your connection. When your partner moves, you follow them with your hands and body, maintaining the connection. Sticking is like two magnets, attracting and repelling each other while staying connected.
    4. Neutralizing: The fourth principle of sticky hands is neutralizing. Neutralizing means redirecting your partner’s energy away from you. When your partner pushes, you redirect their energy away from you and towards the ground. Neutralizing is like using your partner’s energy against them, like a judo master.
    5. Rooting: The fifth principle of sticky hands is rooting. Rooting means being grounded and stable. When you are rooted, you are like a tree with deep roots, unmovable and strong. Rooting is like being an anchor, providing stability and balance to your partner.

    How Sticky Hands Can Improve Your Tai Chi Practice

    Sticky Hands is an essential part of Tai Chi practice. It can help you develop sensitivity, awareness, and adaptability. By practicing sticky hands, you can improve your Tai Chi practice in the following ways:

    1. Develop Sensitivity: Sticky hands can help you develop sensitivity to your partner’s movements. By listening to your partner’s movements, you can learn to anticipate their intentions and respond accordingly. This sensitivity can be applied to your solo Tai Chi practice, helping you become more aware of your own movements and how they affect your body.
    2. Improve Balance: Sticky hands can help you improve your balance by teaching you to root and maintain your stability. By staying rooted and balanced, you can avoid being pushed off balance by your partner’s movements. This balance can be applied to your solo Tai Chi practice, helping you maintain your balance and stability while performing the movements.
    3. Increase Flexibility: Sticky hands can help you increase your flexibility by teaching you to yield to your partner’s movements. By softening your joints and moving with your partner, you can improve your flexibility and range of motion. This flexibility can be applied to your solo Tai Chi practice, helping you perform the movements with more fluidity and grace.
    4. Reduce Stress: Sticky hands can help you reduce stress by teaching you to relax and let go of tension. By yielding to your partner’s movements and focusing on your breath, you can release tension and reduce stress. This relaxation can be applied to your solo Tai Chi practice, helping you achieve a state of calm and relaxation.
    5. Enhance Martial Applications: Sticky hands is not just a partner exercise, it also has martial applications. By practicing sticky hands, you can develop skills that can be applied in self-defense situations. Sticky hands can teach you how to redirect your opponent’s energy, neutralize their attacks, and maintain your balance and stability. These skills can be applied to your solo Tai Chi practice, helping you develop a deeper understanding of the martial applications of Tai Chi.

    While Tai Chi is a serious practice, it doesn’t have to be boring. In fact, Tai Chi can be quite humorous, especially when practicing sticky hands with a partner. Here are a few examples of the humour that can be found in sticky hands:

    1. The Wobbly Partner: We’ve all had a partner who is less stable than a Jenga tower. When practicing sticky hands with a wobbly partner, it can be challenging to maintain your balance and stability. However, it can also be quite comical, especially when both partners are trying to regain their balance at the same time.
    2. The Overly Aggressive Partner: On the other end of the spectrum, we have the overly aggressive partner who is determined to push you across the room. When practicing sticky hands with an aggressive partner, it can be tempting to resist and push back. However, this is the opposite of what sticky hands is all about. Instead, try yielding and redirecting their energy. If all else fails, a well-timed tickle attack can always diffuse the tension.
    3. The Distracted Partner: We’ve all had a partner who is easily distracted. Maybe they’re checking their phone, or maybe they’re daydreaming about their lunch. When practicing sticky hands with a distracted partner, it can be challenging to maintain their focus. However, it can also be an opportunity to practice your skills of sensitivity and adaptability. Try gently redirecting their attention back to the exercise, or use their distraction as an opportunity to practice your neutralizing skills.

    In conclusion, Sticky Hands is an essential part of Tai Chi practice. By practicing Sticky Hands, you can develop sensitivity, awareness, and adaptability. It can also help you improve your balance, flexibility, and reduce stress. And let’s not forget the humour that can be found in practicing sticky hands with a partner. So, if you’re looking to improve your Tai Chi practice and add a bit of laughter to your life, give sticky hands a try. Who knows, you might just find yourself hooked on Tai Chi for life!

  • Kai Men means open the door

    Kai Men means open the door

    Kai Men at the Easter Course in St Ives

    Kai Men Qigong is a series of exercises in Lee style Tai Chi that emphasizes the principles of Qi, the vital life force in Chinese medicine. In this blog post, we’ll explore what Qi is, how it’s related to Chinese medical principles, why qigong is popular as a health exercise, and how Kai Men Qigong specifically can benefit your health.

    What is Qigong?

    Qigong (pronounced “chee-gong”) is an ancient Chinese practice that focuses on cultivating the vital life force or Qi. It involves a series of exercises that are designed to enhance the flow of Qi through the body, promote relaxation, and improve overall health and well-being. Qigong exercises are often gentle and slow and can be performed by people of all ages and fitness levels.

    What is Qi?

    Qi is a fundamental concept in Chinese medicine that refers to the vital life force or energy that animates all living things. It is said to flow through channels or meridians in the body, nourishing the organs and tissues and keeping them healthy. According to Chinese medical principles such as the zangfu theory of internal organs and functions in ancient Chinese medicine, Qi is essential for maintaining health and preventing disease.

    Why is Qigong Popular as a Health Exercise?

    Qigong is popular as a health exercise because it can improve overall physical and mental well-being. Regular practice of qigong has been shown to reduce stress, improve balance, flexibility, and coordination, lower blood pressure, and strengthen the immune system. It can also be used as a complementary therapy for various medical conditions, including chronic pain, cancer, and cardiovascular disease.

    How Does Qigong Work?

    Qigong works by enhancing the flow of Qi through the body. This is achieved through a series of exercises that involve breathing techniques, movement, and visualization. Qigong exercises are designed to stimulate the flow of Qi through specific channels or meridians in the body, which can help to unblock any areas where the Qi is stagnant or deficient. This, in turn, can help to promote healing and overall wellbeing.

    What is Kai Men?

    Kai Men Qigong is a fundamental exercise in Lee-style Tai Chi that focuses on cultivating and enhancing the flow of Qi through the body. It is designed to help students develop sensitivity to Qi, improve relaxation, and promote overall health and well-being. Kai Men Qigong involves a series of exercises that are performed in a standing position and include breathing techniques, movement, and visualization.

    The Benefits of Kai Men Qigong

    Kai Men Qigong has many benefits for the body and mind. It can help to:

    • Enhance the flow of Qi through the body
    • Promote relaxation and reduce stress
    • Improve balance, coordination, and flexibility
    • Strengthen the immune system
    • Increase overall energy levels
    • Improve mental clarity and focus

    In conclusion, Kai Men Qigong is a fundamental exercise in Lee-style Tai Chi that can benefit your overall health and well-being. Qigong as a practice can enhance the flow of Qi through the body, promote relaxation, and improve physical and mental health. It’s a popular exercise because it’s gentle and accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. If you’re interested in learning more about qigong or trying out Kai Men for yourself, come and join a class in West Cornwall