Tai Chi for Health
at Silver Lotus Training Institute

                        

What is Tai Chi?

Tai Chi, also known as shadow boxing, is an internal martial art that originates from ancient China. Now it is practiced throughout the world as an effective exercise for health. Tai Chi consists of fluid, gentle movements that are relaxed and slow in tempo.  Breathing is deepened and slowed, aiding visual and mental concentration, relaxing the body and allowing the life force, or “Qi,” to flow unimpeded throughout the body.  It can be practiced almost anywhere and is a suitable form of exercise for just about anyone, regardless of age or fitness level.  Tai Chi is a powerfully holistic approach to better health.

Health Benefits of Tai Chi:

Tai Chi is enjoyable and has been shown to improve many aspects of health. 

  • Helps to relieve pain and stiffness
  • Relieves stress
  • Improves concentration
  • Improves strength and balance
  • Improves posture
  • Improves heart and lung function
  • Enhances the flow of Qi
  • Integrates body and mind

Aside from the health benefits, Tai Chi runs deep and strong because of its own depth and strength.  It is easy to learn and becomes a way of life for many practitioners.  Yet, because of its depth, no one ever knows it all, and thereby lies the fascination and the never-ending challenge of the art.


Tai Chi Classes at Silver Lotus:

Several styles of tai chi are taught at Silver Lotus, all with emphasis on maintaining health and wellness.  Classes are fun and relaxed, and we use a stepwise progressive method of teaching the forms that makes them easy to learn.  The instructors at Silver Lotus Training Institute have studied with Dr. Paul Lam, and are certified to teach his Tai Chi for Health programs.

Classes offered include the following:

  • Yang Style 24-Forms:  The most popular style, the one practiced daily throughout China.  Gentle, graceful, large-frame movements characterize the Yang style of Tai Chi.
  • Sun Style Short Forms for Better Health:  Short, easy to learn forms, based on Sun style Tai Chi, that were developed to be safe and effective for people with special health conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, and back pain.  Fun and relaxing for anyone!
  • Moving Stillness Tai Chi Fan Form: Tai Chi fan forms use graceful movements to extend the practitioner’s Chi flow beyond their bodies and out to the edges of their fans.  This form clearly reflects the harmony of Yin and Yang energies and allows a powerful increase in Chi experience.