Frequently Asked Questions

What is a typical T'ai Chi class like?
What should I wear to class?
How much should I practice?
Why do people do T'ai Chi?
Is T'ai Chi suitable for someone who isn't used to exercising?
Why do people do Qigong?
What is the difference between T'ai Chi and Qigong?
How do I choose which Qigong form to learn?

What is a typical T'ai Chi class like?
In a typical class we start as a group with some gentle streching exercises and then do a portion of the form together. I will then work with each person individually (usually those with those least experienced first) as the others practice what they have already learned. With this approach people can start at any time and they can progress at their own pace.

What should I wear to class?
There are no special requirements except for comfortable, loose fitting clothing and comfortable shoes such as sneakers.

Back to top

How much should I practice?
For beginning T'ai Chi students I recommend starting with about 10 minutes every day and eventually working up to 20 or 30 minutes a day. Regular practice with a shorter duration is better than skipping several days in between longer practice sessions. Longer practice sessions (20 minutes to an hour) are OK as long as students practice every day. For Qigong students 20 to 45 minutes every day is best right from the start.

Why do people do T'ai Chi?
The main reason people do T'ai Chi is to improve and/or maintain health. Its ability to reduce tension and improve balance are also reasons many people are attracted to T'ai Chi. Most people continue to do T'ai Chi simply because they feel better after doing it. Some martial artists are interested in learning an 'internal style' such as T'ai Chi. People interested in spiritual development are attracted to the meditative aspect of T'ai Chi.

Back to top

Is T'ai Chi suitable for someone who isn't used to exercising?
Yes, the slow relaxed movements of T'ai Chi are especially well suited for people who aren't used to regular physical exercise. Fluid movements with a minimum of strain are the goal which is the opposite of the more common 'no pain - no gain approach.

Why do people do Qigong?
Some people use Qigong to help recover from serious illnesses such as cancer. Others like the increased vitality as well as peace of mind the feel after doing Qigong. Healers do Qigong to increase their effectiveness and to help replenish themselves. Martial artists practice Qigong to increase the power of their strikes. People interested in spiritual development do Qigong to help strengthen their connection to the universe.

Back to top

What is the difference between T'ai Chi and Qigong?
Qigong (energy work) is a broad category of energy-based practices. Technically speaking, both T'ai Chi and meditation are Qigong practices. T'ai Chi uses movements with martial applications to gather and regulate qi energy. The Qigong forms that I teach use movements that are solely designed to gather and regulate qi energy. I feel that doing T'ai Chi is generally better for improving balance and Qigong forms gather and balance qi energy more quickly.

How do I choose which Qigong form to learn?
The first thing to consider in choosing a Qigong form is 'Which form am I drawn to?' The next thing to consider is 'Which form will best fit my reason for learning Qigong?' Look at the descriptions of the forms on the Qigong page to help you decide. Soaring Crane is a more active form with many specific details while Essence Qigong and Turtle Longevity are looser and easy to relax into. Feel free to contact me if you still have trouble deciding.

Back to top