About Tai Chi & Qigong

Tai Chi & Qigong In all things, balance is the key.

Qigong (Chi Gong) practice can be traced back over 4,000 years – its health theory being drawn from traditional Chinese medicine and its guiding principle from the Chinese philosophy of the Tao (the way of nature).  Its foundation is singular (but repeated), natural movements, combining gentle stretching and natural breathing, which increase natural bodily energy, or Chi.

Tai Chi is an extension of Qigong.  Its foundation lies in the original singular Qigong movements, combining them into a soft, gentle and flowing sequence which enhances the flow of Chi.  (It is also a soft, ‘internal’ Chinese martial art but the Academy does not teach it for martial purposes).

Tai Chi and Qigong are famous for their relaxation qualities and graceful movements.  However, underneath this veneer of carefree softness lies a fascinating art.  The learning of this art can be divided into three distinct stages:

Gentle relaxation exercise – gentle stretching, rhythmic movement, imagery and natural breathing.

Health reinforcement – body alignment, extension stretching, increased circulation, mental focus and internal/external co-ordination (balance).  As a weight-bearing exercise it is second to none.

Application – awareness of the philosophical principles, stress management and application to everyday living. (The self-defence aspect is another application).

The Academy focus is Relaxation and Health