Tai Chi

Tai Chi is a gentle yet powerful practice that connects your body, mind, and spirit, offering a path to healing, balance, and inner peace.

Rooted in ancient Chinese martial arts, Tai Chi combines slow, flowing movements with deep, conscious breathing to promote physical healing, strength, and flexibility.

Originally developed for self-defence, Tai Chi teaches you to move with intention and awareness, harnessing your body’s natural energy (Qi) for both mental and physical well-being.

As you practice, you’ll not only improve posture and circulation but also cultivate a sense of calm, reduce stress, and support emotional health.

Whether you're seeking pain relief, enhanced vitality, or a deeper connection to your inner strength, Tai Chi offers a holistic approach to wellness that blends the art of movement with the principles of martial arts.

I have been teaching the Yang style of Tai Chi for many years, sharing its rich traditions and benefits with students of all levels. My classes cover a wide range of topics, including:

• Traditional Bare-Hand Form
• 24-Step Beginner's Form
• Sword Form
• Sabre Form
• Pushing Hands (Fixed Step, Moving Step, and Freestyle)
• Martial Applications (Bare-Hand and Weapons)
• Chi Cultivation
• Tai Chi Breathing Techniques
• Tai Chi for Healing and Meditation
• Tai Chi for Individuals with Dementia and Cognitive Impairments
• Tai Chi for Parkinson’s Disease
• Tai Chi for Recovery from Illness and Injury
• Tai Chi Philosophy and History
• Tai Chi Warm-Ups
• Posture Testing and Body Alignment
• Self-Defence Techniques through Tai Chi

What Happens During a Tai Chi Lesson?

What Happens During a Tai Chi Lesson?

When you step into a Tai Chi class, you're not just learning movements—you're embracing a practice that nurtures your body, mind, and spirit. Whether you’re new to Tai Chi or have been practicing for a while, each session is designed to meet you where you are, helping you build strength, balance, and inner calm.

Here’s what you can expect during a typical lesson:

1. A Warm Welcome and Gentle Start

Your Tai Chi journey begins the moment you walk in. The class starts with a warm welcome, where you'll be introduced to the day’s theme or focus. The instructor will guide you through some gentle stretches to loosen up your muscles and calm your mind. This time helps you relax and become present, leaving behind the distractions of the day.

2. Mindful Breathing and Posture

Tai Chi is all about connection—to your body, your breath, and the flow of energy (Qi). You’ll learn how to breathe deeply and mindfully, allowing your breath to guide your movements. I will help you focus on standing tall and aligning your body, creating a solid foundation for balance. This focus on breath and posture is the key to creating the calm energy that Tai Chi is known for.

3. Learning the Movements

Now comes the heart of the lesson: the movements. Tai Chi is a form of moving meditation, with each graceful, flowing motion designed to help you find balance and ease. Whether you're learning a simple, beginner form or refining a more advanced sequence, I will walk you through each movement step-by-step. You'll feel yourself becoming more fluid as you flow from one posture to the next. Don’t worry if it takes time—Tai Chi is a practice, not a performance. It’s about progress, not perfection.

4. Connecting with Your Energy

As you move, you’ll begin to feel a deeper connection to your body. I will encourage you to feel the energy moving through you, helping you become more attuned to the subtle sensations in your body. Tai Chi is as much about cultivating an inner sense of calm and strength as it is about the outer movements. The more you practice, the more you'll learn to tune into your body’s natural rhythm and energy.

5. A Gentle Cool Down

As the lesson draws to a close, you’ll transition into a cool-down phase. This is a time to absorb what you’ve learned, relax your muscles, and calm your mind. I may guide you through a brief meditation or standing practice, helping you integrate the peace and centeredness that Tai Chi offers. You’ll leave feeling more grounded and clear-headed, ready to face the world with a sense of balance.

6. Personalized Guidance and Support

Throughout the class, I am there to guide you, offering feedback to help you refine your technique. Tai Chi is a lifelong journey, and no matter where you are on that path, you’ll receive the support and encouragement you need to grow at your own pace. It’s a safe space to ask questions, explore your body’s limits, and discover new layers of relaxation and strength.

The Benefits You’ll Experience

In addition to the physical benefits of increased flexibility, balance, and strength, Tai Chi is also a practice for your mind and emotions. You’ll feel less stressed, more connected to your inner calm, and more grounded in your daily life. As you continue practicing, you’ll notice how the peaceful energy of Tai Chi carries over into your routine, helping you stay centred no matter what comes your way.

Tai Chi is about more than just learning movements—it’s about finding harmony within yourself. In each lesson, you’ll deepen your understanding of your body and mind, while developing a greater sense of peace and well-being. Whether you’re looking to improve your health, reduce stress, or simply find a moment of stillness in your busy day, Tai Chi offers a transformative practice that you can carry with you.