What is Taiji?
Taiji (T'ai Chi) is an ancient Chinese martial art that is unique in its use of slow and graceful movements. Taiji is both an excellent health exercise and an effective martial arts system: a low-impact and slow-moving exercise program with little stress on the body.
Meditation, deep relaxation, and breathing exercises are practiced before each and every class. Deep relaxation and stretching exercises before class help the student to increase the mind-body connection and become centered and sensitive to the energy patterns in life. Circular movements of all the joints encourage increased blood flow, thus promoting a feeling of well-being.
As an exercise prescription, it seems that Taiji has potential benefits for reduction of stress and reduction of tension and anxiety. Taiji is beneficial to some important components of health fitness, such as cardiopulmonary function, strength and flexibility. Moreover, the exercise intensity of Taiji is approximate to the ventilatory threshold, which implies that Taiji is aerobic in nature. Studies showed an eight-week, low-intensity Taiji program was effective for reducing blood pressure.
To practice Taiji, one needs no special equipment. Hospitals such as the INOVA group are now endorsing the benefits of Taiji and offer classes to patients who are recovering from various illnesses.
Ancient Chinese philosophers developed the concept of Taiji through intensive study of the world that surrounded them. Taiji principles describe practical approaches to solving problems in natural and human realms.
With constant focus on mind, spirit and body working as one throughout the exercises a great healing will begin. The mental clarity that one receives from practice is priceless. The objectives of Taiji include harmony of mind, promotion of health and attainment of rejuvenation and longevity.
Key Benefits
The beginning student is always full of excitement and enthusiasm. In order to keep this feeling alive, proper instruction, guidance and class atmosphere are very important. At Qi Elements, we do everything possible to make our students' experiences rewarding. All of the instructors monitor each student's progress and continually serve as positive role models. The environment at Qi Elements offers students a peaceful place in which they can train, learn and meditate.
The Taiji Program at Qi Elements
Taiji is a way of life; trying to only learn the physical movements without developing patience, root and appreciation of nature will leave one feeling empty. Give yourself time to learn. Be patient with yourself. Be kind to yourself when practicing. Involve your mind in everything you do and you will be happy, healthy and at peace.
Level 1 (White Belt)
- Taiji walk forwards and backwards
- Section #1 of the long form (19 movements with closure)
- Explanation of the Taiji Diagram
- Yin/Yang hand exercises
Level 2 (Yellow Belt)
- Section #2 of the long form (30 movements with closure)
- Taiji Diagram exercises
- Sticking and Adhering exercises with partner
Level 3 (Green Belt)
- Section #3 of the long form (54 movements with closure)
- Applications of the form
- Qi (Chi) circulation exercises
The above three levels of training are used as a guide for both the student and the instructor to monitor the progress and attention to details needed with each level. The white, yellow and green belts are the only levels required within the school's program.
Students who complete the first three levels of instruction are encouraged to learn the Taiji straight sword, push hands and long staff. No further testing is necessary. Students may continue after green belt and progress deeper into the school's program. Advanced levels include blue, purple, red, brown and black belts. To achieve these levels the student must learn the martial applications, Chin Na and Push Hands. |