What is T'ai Chi?
Correctly called Taiji this is an internal style of Chinese martial art. It refers to the ultimate universal principle and is symbolised by the Yin and Yang symbol. The full name of Taiji is Taijiquan but there are other common spellings such as T’ai Chi and T’ai Chi Chuan. Tai or T’ai means great, grand or supreme. Ji or Chi means ultimate, infinite or extreme. Quan or Chuan literally means fist.

The principles of Taiji were formulated 2,500 years ago by Lao Tzu, the founder of Daoism but Taijiquan is said to have been created over 700 years ago by the Daoist sage Chan San-Feng. Taiji has evolved into a set of soft, slow, gentle movements’ co-ordinating the mind and breath.

Taiji emphasises the principles of relaxation and yielding both in its application and in daily life. Taijiquan training develops inner strength and harmony through the co-ordination and relaxation of mind and body.
What benefit can I get from Taiji?
Initial practice of Taiji consists of learning to relax the body and quieten the mind. However, the movements of Taiji work on many levels, both obvious and hidden.
The whole body is worked with Taiji. Leg muscles become stronger, back muscles are strengthened. Recent medical research has pointed to the following health benefits: 
• Improved blood circulation
• Improved flexibility of the joints
• Prevention of osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis
• Blood pressure is more balanced
• Improvement of posture
• Increased breathing capacity
• Less likelihood of falls (for the elderly)
• Increased white blood cell count (immune system)
• Improved performance for athletes

Going for a Taiji lesson?
Each one-to-one lesson is catered for the specific needs of the individual, after all no two people are the same and everybody develops at their own rate.  Lessons consist of working through Master Huang Sheng Shuan’s five loosening exercises, Taiji short form and supplementary exercises, exploring body movement, balance, relaxation, sensitivity and awareness, which can be challenging and fun.

How many Taiji lessons will I need?
Like all learning processes the number of lessons is up to the individual. You can continually learn more through out your life and so can have as many (or as few) lessons as you wish.

Taiji for children
You are never to young or to old to start learning Taiji.

What will it all cost?
A one-to-one Taiji lesson costs £25.00.