Tai Chi

What is Tai Chi?

Tai Chi is a series of slow, relaxed, flowing movements, postures and stretches, which makes it adaptable to many levels of health and fitness. Based on a Chinese martial art, it is used to enhance mental and physical health. Like other physical exercise, Tai Chi can develop muscle strength and, when done regularly, might enhance general strength, balance, co-ordination and cardiovascular function.

History of Tai Chi

The founder of the Yang style was Yang Lu-ch’an {1799-1872}, who studied under Ch’en Chang-hsing starting in 1820. Yang became a teacher in his own right, and his subsequent expression of tai chi chuan became known as the Yang style. Yang Lu-ch’an came to prominence as a result of his being hired by the Chinese Imperial family to teach tai chi chuan to the elite Palace Battalion of the Imperial Guards, a position he held until his death.

Moving to the present day Tai Chi which Yang style seems to be the most popular around the world It is the Yang Ch’eng-fu form that people practise.Yang Ch’eng-fu removed the vigorous Fa-jing from the Hand Form, as well as the energetic jumping, stamping, and other abrupt movements in order to emphasise the large frame style.

Class stucture: (Beginners)

Zhan Zhuang chi kung – standing meditation

Loosening exercises

Traditional Yang Style Tai Chi Chuan Form

More advanced levels:

Single Push Hands, Double Push Hands and Sensitivity – with forward and backward steps;
Traditional Yang Style Tai Chi Chuan (Crane);
Yin Yang Concept and Correction of Yin Yang Concept;
Traditional Yang Style Tai Chi Chuan – Spiral Concept;
Live step single and double;
Small Circle Push Hands;
Ta Lu ’2 & 3 steps and Ta Lu Form;
Yang Style Sword;
Yang Style Broadsword;
Threading Nine Pearls System;
Substantial and Insubstantial;
San Sau;
Energy healing.

David Puncher teaches Tai Chi in Leigh-on-Sea at Shambhala Studios on Tuesday mornings 11.15am-12.45pm. Classes cost £7 per session.