Classes

Balanced Life Tai Chi is currently offering the following classes. Contact us if you are interested in discussing additional class options.

Enjoy relaxation and stress relief through controlled breathing paired with gentle movements. You will also learn how to apply pressure with your own hands to relieve pain, nausea, and anxiety. Appropriate for most physical abilities. Wear loose comfortable clothing and flat shoes.   

New to Tai Chi and/or Qigong? Or just interested in having fun and learning different exercises. Come and “sample” different Tai Chi Classes . You have an opportunity to try the following: Qigong, Yang Short Form; SUN Tai Chi for Arthritis, Chronic Pain, and Balance; Tai Chi Ruler; Tai Chi Bang Stick and Ball. No experience needed, just a curious and adventurous mind. Appropriate for most physical conditions. Wear comfortable, loose clothing, and flat shoes. No sandals please.

Tai Chi is a martial art. It is mostly taught for its many health, balance, and wellness benefits. This class teaches the Yang Style Short Form. This class is a bit different because in addition to learning the form, students are introduced to how and why some of the postures can be used for self-defense. This is not a martial class and there will be no student contact. Just a fun, interesting way to learn the theory and philosophy behind the postures. Requires the ability to stand, pivot, and shift weight. Not suitable for some physical conditions. Flat shoes and loose clothing required.

There are many forms and postures in Qigong. Eight Silken Brocades (also known as 8 Section Brocades or Ba Duan Jin) has been around since the 12th century. This gentle, healing Qigong was originally created to improve the vitality of soldiers. Each move focuses on a particular health benefit while restoring energy. A variety of other forms will be introduced including Shibashi. All movements are slow, calming, and flowing and can be done in a small space. There are no sequences to memorize. The movements can be adapted for most physical conditions and many of the postures can be done sitting. Loose comfortable clothing and flat shoes recommended.

This low-impact exercise class will improve and enhance participation in the sport of curling. Combining Tai Chi principles and Western strength training exercises, participants will develop core muscle strength and improve balance, flexibility and body awareness to improve your game. Class includes both classroom sessions and curling ice sessions.

The Tai Chi Ruler form is an ancient and gentle, yet powerful, exercise of Taoist origin. It is a unique method of cultivating Qi (internal energy) because it uses an external object (the Ruler) to aid in its development. Ruler exercises can be used for improving flexibility, focus, calming the mind, and moving energy throughout the body. In addition, it requires very little space and no special skills. Can be done sitting or standing and is appropriate for all levels of fitness. For more information, check out the January 12, 2020 blog: Is Tai Chi Ruler a Form or a Tool?

This gentle SUN family form improves mental and physical capacity as well as relaxation, balance and vitality! The postures are done in a slow, gentle, continuous sequence.  Tai Chi has proven through numerous scientific studies to relieve pain, increase range of motion and improve quality of life. Arthritis foundations around the world and the CDC are recommending it for arthritis and fall prevention. This form is suitable for most physical conditions and can be done sitting or standing.   

This non-martial, gentle exercise reduces stress, strengthens the body, and restores internal and external balance. The many physical and psychological benefits have been recognized by both medical and scientific research. Tai Chi is recommended by many top medical universities and organizations. In this class, participants will learn a 40 posture Yang family form done in sequence. It requires the ability to stoop, turn and change directions. Not suitable for some physical conditions.

The Tai Chi Bang (Stick) Exercises were believed to have been created in the 8th Century to strengthen grip, as well as condition the arms and back. These exercises strengthen the muscles, joints and improve range of motion. They also improve awareness, focus and reduce stress. Appropriate for most physical conditions. Takes very little space and movements can be done sitting or standing. Comfortable, loose clothes and flat shoes preferred. No sandals please.