The Premise

Tai Chi is an art of harmony. It is an art that explores how we move through the world, in constant interaction with energy. If we think of this energy as a song – how do we listen to and play with the notes that this moment gives? Deeper still, how do we find harmony even within the notes of discord, the open-armed acceptance and understanding of the full spectrum of experience?

Tai Chi presents us with a challenge, as it presents within its movements a “conflict.” This conflict is the martial art aspect of Tai Chi. As we move through the form, each movement gives us tools to harmonize this conflicting energy, so that all energy in our life can be processed and transformed into a harmonic resonance as we become “unassailable” - ultimately free and unhindered.

This is, of course, also a study of yin and yang energy. Where is yielding? How do we truly project intent and activate creative discovery? All this is wrapped up in the symbolism the movements embody.

The Practice

This workshop explores the interactive martial art aspect of Tai Chi. It will begin with a deep dive discussion about the way the surface martial art technique symbolizes these embedded energetic and philosophical theories. From there we will learn about and practice in an interactive manner how the “blocks” and “strikes” actually work. Participants will work with each other in gentle partner exercises. We will practice specific defensive (passive) and offensive (active) movements. We will also work on some “push-hands” style partner exercises that are tons of fun and help to unlock our intuitive perceptions.

In this workshop we will work together and will make light physical contact with each other. All of this contact will be gentle, safe and compassionate. It will generally be limited to hands and forearms, and will be done slowly and softly. While we may find some awkwardness at first, there is also the joy of connection to be discovered! This workshop will open a new understanding of your Tai Chi form.