Pay Attention!
During standing practice, something occurred to me: Awareness is the first and most important principle in Tai Chi.
Training
Mental Minefields in Taijiquan
There are many mental factors that should be considered when practicing Taijiquan, and the way that people naturally react mentally can become traps.
How Art Therapy Can Enhance Your Tai Chi Sessions
Performing artistic acts before Tai Chi compounds the reduction of your body’s cortisol levels, resulting in a stress-free day and a clear mind.
A Jazz Approach to Taijiquan
Jazz music has varying degrees of improvisation in its ensemble (and solo) playing. There is a structure, with melody, tempo, key signature, chord progression, and other characteristics for each song, although these can be modified. But there is also improvisation, with players rarely, if ever, trying to play a song exactly the same way each … [Read more…]
Eight Tai Chi Teaching Guidelines for Creating a Successful and Enjoyable Classroom Experience for New Students
As someone who has been playing Taijiquan (Tai Chi) for almost 30 years and teaching for more than 20, I have a special place in my heart for students who are new to the practice.
Teaching Pushing Hands to Addicts in Mexico
I posted on a Chapala social media site, giving an introduction to Pushing Hands, and a self-introduction to my own experiences, as learner and as trainer.
Is Taijiquan Natural?
From this, we can infer that strength, speed, youth, etc. are matters of “natural” abilities… different from is developed through the practice of Taijiquan.
Pushing Hands and ‘’Eyes Wide Shut’’
I was a Volunteer Trainer in Pushing Hands and the exercises of Walking and Rowing. To empathize/equalize the process, I would typically close my own eyes.
Repetition
Young children don’t mind repetition but adults often find repeating the same movements over and over, tedious and frustrating.
When the Hands Lead the Body in Taijiquan
Taijiquan practitioners are familiar with “Starting from your foot, issue through your leg, directing it at your waist, and expressing it at your fingers.