The word “Taiji” means “the supreme ultimate”, and so you would expect this to be a monumentally profound course of study: fear not! Everything in Tao is sort of like 1,2,3, learning is fast and fun, before you know it you’ll be a Taoist
Taiji and qigong involve physical movement, philosophy, and meditation. Learning Qigong and Taiji can bring one to a remarkably peaceful place where a new awareness of reality gives a person solace and clarity.
Under the rubric of all things Taiji, there are two main areas I explore with beginners. The first is Qigong, the second is Taijiquan.
Most of my Taiji classes involve about half the allotted time to Qigong and half to Taijiquan. I also have classes just for students with arthritis.
Qigong is a health practice that is defined by it’s English translation, “energy cultivation”. I believe doing Qigong is the most important practice anyone could ever do; essential really, for obtaining the ultimate in total health. Qigong movements are simple, focused, slow moving yet aerobic in nature, designed to stretch, and strengthen the muscles, fascia tissues and internal organs as well as align the spine and calm the mind and emotions. Using the mind to control your breath is a gateway to a strong connection with your energy. A rather simplistic analogy would be to think of Qigong as a moving Yoga practice. When practiced correctly you will find all the peace and harmony that you never knew existed before!
For my website dedicated only to Qigong click here: Qigong on Maui
For a text version of the basic Qigong set that I show all students, click here: Basic Qigong Set
Taijiquan is a Gong Fu (kung fu) form that maximizes qi flow and improves balance and strengthens the whole being. The word “quan” (pronounced “chew-on”) added to the word “Taiji” means “fist” and it is sort of Chinese short hand for “martial art.” When you learn Taiji+quan you are learning “The supreme ultimate martial art”. Basically it is an expansion of both Qigong and Gong Fu combined. Taiji will get you in touch with your balance.You will learn to walk all over again; going back to the basics, just like when you learned the first time!
Meditation classes involve Qigong and Sitting Qigong where students use their basic skills added with Taoist philosophy in a way that allows them to find Wuji in the mind. Energy is the common denominator. I give students “tools” to connect with their energy like focusing on various breathing techniques. Taoist Meditation is unique in it’s methods; learning to make a direct connection to energy is one of the greatest gifts one can give themselves. Taoist methods differ from Buddhist methods, there is a saying in China: “Buddhism is the path to emptiness, Taoism is the path to mysteries.”
For more information of some of the qigong forms that I show students click here: Qigong Sets
Beginner level I classes focus on learning basic principles, the basic qigong set, and the first section of the Dong (Yang) Style Taiji form. I spend a lot of time explaining everything.
Beginner level II classes focus on doing the qigong set and working primarily on the first section of the Dong (Yang) Style Taiji form, and introducing the second section. I keep quiet for about the first half of class encouraging a meditative experience.
Intermediate level classes continue learning the Yang style second and third section and beyond depending on each class. It is assumed that students know the warm-ups and qigong. More advanced qigong sets are also learned.
Advanced Classes take students further along the Way. Advanced qigong as well as other forms. Instruction in the Dong Style “family” short form and Wudang Style Taiji and Gong Fu fundamentals as well as advanced push hands and weapons training are all available.
For my Class Schedule, click here.
