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What is Tai Chi?
Tai Chi (pronounced Tie Chee) is a centuries-old Chinese
discipline for health, relaxation, longevity and improved well-being. It was
originally developed as a martial art and has evolved through the ages as a
system of exercise and personal development.
Tai Chi is a series of slow continuous movements, one flowing into the next, designed to relax and develop the whole body. The aim of the precise, flowing movements is to build up the body's internal strength, suppleness and stamina.
Tai Chi can refine your reflexes, improve your balance, trim your waist, and fend off the signs of old age. While exercising your entire body, Tai Chi also helps you to relax and slow down, yet allows you to feel revitalized and refreshed.
What is Qi and Qigong?
Qi (pronounced Chee) means "energy." Qi is invisible to the eye, but it is the vital life force that flows through the body and forms the very essence of human life. Qigong contributes to the growth of Qi, adding to one's life force and delaying the process of aging.
Qigong involves physical movements, mental meditation, and breath control to enhance the blood, bones, muscles and skin, resulting in energy and vitality. Enhancing Qi to benefit the body, mind and spirit is the foundation of all Chinese health and martial arts.
What are the benefits of Tai Chi?
You can practice Tai Chi anywhere, any time. The movements are simple to learn and can be practiced by anyone, young or old. Tai Chi is considered a healing exercise because of its reputation for alleviating many health ailments. The stretching movements make the body limber, tone up muscles and create a sense of well-being. Tai Chi can affect the body in a variety of beneficial ways:
- Improves posture and alignment
- Tones muscles
- Improves flexibility
- Releases tension and reduces stress
- Enhances balance and coordination
- Regulates blood pressure
- Improves breathing
- Reduces fatigue
Tai Chi and Qigong Class
Tai Chi and Qigong – 18 Steps, Level 1
This is a program for beginners. The slow, relaxed movements with qi enhanced breathing, delivers vitality and energy to the body and building internal strength, suppleness and stamina as well as leading to a well-aligned body. (DVD and Book available)
Tai Chi and Qigong – 18 Steps, Level 2
The movements are light but the range of motion is greater than in 18 Steps, Level 1. The weight-bearing joints receive more of a workout and the muscles are stretched. (DVD and Book available)
Tai Chi and Qigong Therapy 1
Qigong, the combination of Tai Chi movements with qi-enhanced breathing, delivers vitality and energy to the blood, bones, muscles and skin. This class instructions benefit: Neck and Shoulders, Back and Lower Back, Hips and Legs. (DVD available)
Tai Chi and Qigong Therapy 2
Qi refers to vital life force or energy which is increased when Tai Chi moves are combined with breath. This program, when used with Therapy 1, delivers a well-rounded program. This class instruction for: Joints, Elbows and Wrists and Internal Organs. (DVD available)
Eight Pieces Brocade
This thousands-year-old form of exercise concentrates on strengthening the internal organs such as liver, heart, kidneys, lungs and spleen. Movements are divided into eight steps with postures as flowing and graceful as brocade. This class has beginner and advanced levels, Shaolin Style, seated and reclining five sections. (DVD and Book available)
Yijinjing
This program includes ancient Chinese exercises for flexibility. The word "yi" means change, "jin" refers to the internal strength of ligaments, tendons, muscles and bones, and "jing" means method. This form of exercise concentrates on turning a frail body into a strong, sturdy one. This class includes seven sections: the first three sections each have 12 steps. The last four sections are: walking, stillness, seated and reclining section. (DVD and Book available)
Tai Chi 24 Steps
This is a program of 24 continuous, non-strenuous movements. It is designed to improve mental focus and concentration, relax and tone all the major joints in the body, increase energy levels, and build internal strength and suppleness. (DVD available)
Tai Chi Twenty-four Steps in Small Space
This twenty-four step sequence was developed to be used in small home space and is excellent for mental and physical health. (DVD available)
Tai Chi Sword – 32 Steps
You will develop physical and mental fitness and find harmony of the mind, body and spirit using this ancient Chinese art. Exercising with the sword makes the movements beautiful and enjoyable. (DVD available)
Tai Chi Fan
This beautiful exercise combines Tai Chi with dance, Beijing opera and modern music. There are six sections. Each section contains eight movements. With a beginning, an ending and two transition movements for a total of 52 movements. The fan is a new implement for use in Tai Chi and is creatively integrated for a pleasing visual effect. (DVD available)
Tai Chi 42 Step
This 42-Step sequence consists of a different series of movements than the 24-step sequence. The 24-Step Sequence class is a pre-requisite for this class.
Tai Chi Push Hands
Tai Chi Push Hands is a two-person exercise using hands, waist and leg movements that stimulate energy and circulation. The partner exercises help to balance the body's "yin & yang". The Push Hands exercises can be practiced by anyone.
Five Animals Frolic
This is a thousand years old Chinese exercise based on the movements of five animals: tiger, deer, monkey, bear and crane. It opens the Qi channels and promotes internal organ health and function of joints, bones, tendons and circulation through the development and manipulation of Qi. (DVD available)
Dayan Qigong Wild Goose Breathing Exercise
This class presents an ancient exercise imitating the postures and movements of the wild goose. It shows both vigorous and gentle movements resulting in an exercise that stimulates strong energy circulation. (DVD available)
Tai Chi for Strengthening the Respiratory System
There are 8 different exercises and acupressure techniques to improve the function and health of the entire respiratory system. (DVD available)
Batua Zhang – Eight Trigram Palm
This is one of the most popular ancient Chinese exercises. Using different arm and leg movements, walking in a circular pattern, we open ourselves to the universe to get yin and yang balance.
Chair Tai Chi
Seated Tai Chi exercises recommended for those who cannot stand for long periods of time.
Chair Qigong
Seated Qigong exercises, combined with specific breathing techniques, are designed to increase the body’s energy.
Chinese Qigong for Heart
This includes 11 easy exercises to improve the heart blood circulation. These exercises are good for all types of heart problems. The DVD includes demonstration of the exercises, step by step instruction followed by the whole program practice. (DVD available)
Walking for Health
In this class you will learn 12 different ways of walking. The body’s circulation is increased. The muscles and ligaments are strengthened from the neck to the toes. The capacity of the lungs is increased to provide maximum oxygennation. The physical and emotional body is in balance. You will burn more calories than when you walk the regular way. All this contributes to better health. (DVD available)
Qi (Chi) Flow Exercises
This is an exercise using your hands to tap along the meridian system stimulating energy flow. The program includes 22 steps. It covers the whole body. It helps to release tension and relieve aching muscles. It also helps to relieve chronic aches and pains. Areas include the head, shoulders, hands, hips, back, legs, knees and internal organs. (DVD available)
Chinese Reflexology
Chinese Reflexology class is very insightful. The information presented is well organized and incorporated lecture demonstrations and hands on learning. This provided all learning types to grasp the technique. It includes: The basic Reflexology knowledge that includes hand technique, tools, strength, attention items, 6 push harder points and 10 push up points. How you can work on other person and how you can do self-reflexology. There is 54 minute DVD available
Where Can You Sign Up for Tai Chi Classes?
B’nai B’rith House
1616 Liberty Street, Allentown
610 821-0207
Tai Chi and Qigong private class
Call 610-866-9087 for appointment.
30 Minutes $45
1 Hour $80
For further class information, please contact us
Authentic Eastern Health, L.L.C.
3005 Brodhead Rd. Suite 100
Bethlehem, PA 18020
Phone: 610-866-9087
Tai Chi and Qigong practice group
College Hill Moravian Church every week
72 W Laurel St, Bethlehem PA 18018
Call Leonard Forte for information. 610-762-8818
Certified Tai Chi Teacher Program
The Certified Tai Chi Teacher Program is designed for those who want to gain a deeper understanding of Chinese culture, philosophy and medicine within the context of Tai Chi. Participants must be willing to dedicate time to learn and practice detailed Tai Chi movements, and to share their knowledge with their students.
Who can be certified?
Students who have completed any of Ping’s Tai Chi classes and logged 40 hours of practice can apply to this program.
How to be certified?
Step 1. Complete one Tai Chi class with Ping and achieve 40 hours of practice time (to be logged in a practice hours form)
Step 2. Submit application form and pay class fee
Step 3. Finish required readings and submit homework: once your application has been approved, you will receive a book list and exercises to be completed outside class (Note: readings vary by class)
Step 4. Participate in class
How does the instructor support the students?
Ping will guide you through all of the Tai Chi movements required to gain certification, and will provide feedback as you practice and progress. Additionally, she will discuss the homework assignments during class.
Fee
$320 for 2 or more people.
$360 for 1 person.
Required forms
Download Application and Practice Hours form [PDF Document]
Certified Tai Chi Teacher's Information
Emmajane Finney
Certified in Tai Chi and Qigong 18 Steps Level I and II: August, 2011
Leonard Forte
Certified in 24 step Tai chi – June, 2011
Certified in Tai Chi and Qi Gong 18 Step Level I and II: August, 2011
LRF33@hotmail.com
(610)762-8818
Facebook name-Leonardo Forte
Pamela Gifford
Certified in Eight Pieces Brocade - January 14th, 2010
Certified in Tai chi and Qigong 18 step Level I and II - August 18th, 2010
Certified in Yijinjing - August 28th, 2011
Certified in Tai Chi 24 step – December 4th, 2011
balancewithpamela@gmail.com
Facebook: Pamela Gifford
Barbara Karas
Certified in 8 Pieces Brocade in January 2010
Certified in Tai Chi and Qi Gong 18 Step Level I and II: August 18th, 2010
Certified in Tai Chi 24 Step : June 2011
Certified in Yijinjing: August, 2011
bskares@live.com
Alice Mangum Perry
Certified in Tai Chi and Qi Gong 18 Steps, Levels I & II: March 25, 2010
Certified in Eight Pieces Brocade: September 18, 2019
Certified in Tai Chi 24 Steps: July 23, 2020
Certified in Yijinjing September 27,2024
ahmfree@mindspring.com
a3iea@yahoo.com
(610)737-5593
Find me on Facebook
Heather Shoup L.Ac.
Certified in Tai Chi and Qi Gong 18 Step Level I and II: June, 2011
Certified in Tai Chi 24Steps : 12/4/2011
www.balancedacupuncture.net
heather@balancedacupuncture.net
(610) 393-7589
Linda J. Wiland
Certified in Tai Chi 24 Steps: July 15, 2010
Certified in Tai Chi and Qigong 18 Steps I & II: March 25, 2010
Erica Peek
Certified in Tai Chi and Qi Gong 18 Steps, Levels I & II: March 25, 2010
Certified in Yijinjing - August 28th, 2011
Elehna M. Shores
Certified in Tai Chi and Qi Gong 18 Step Level I and II: June, 2011
Certified in Tai Chi 24 step – December 4th, 2011
Luke Aaron Shumko
Certified in Tai Chi and Qigong 18 Steps Level I and II: August 2011
Rory Maruschak
Certified in Tai Chi and Qigong 18 Steps Level I and II: July 12 2018
Certified in 8 Pieces Brocade - December 17, 2018
Certified in Tai Chi 24 Step - July 23, 2020
rory.wuwei@gmail.com
Kevin Carpenter
Certified in Tai Chi and Qi Gong 18 Step Level I and II: Nov. 4th, 2022
Certified in Yijinjing September 27,2024
mail4kcc@yahoo.com
570-239-1214
Varee Var
Certified in Tai Chi and Qi Gong 18 Step Level I and II: Nov. 4th, 2022
Sokunvery@gmail.com
856-388-7048
Christopher Neyman
Certified in Tai Chi and Qi Gong 18 Step Level I and II: Aug. 15th, 2024
chris.neyman1@icloud.com
570-855-0170
What My Students Say...
"T'ai Chi exercises look deceptively easy yet they produce positive results in so many ways, not only physically but also mentally. It’s difficult to explain the more subtle changes, like a sense of inner quietness or an increased joy for life, but T'ai Chi has done that for me."
P. Zelko, Bethlehem, PA
"I've been practicing T'ai Chi over seven years and it is a part of my life. Each time I have check-ups at the doctor, he has urged me to continue T'ai Chi. Since there are health benefits from all forms of T'ai Chi, whether it be active, standing, seated or reclining postures, persons of any ability can receive the benefits of T'ai Chi."
E. VanDine, Wind Gap, PA
"T'ai Chi gives me more energy. It clears my head in the morning and I have the stamina to get through my very busy days. Plus my blood pressure is down to normal. One of the greatest benefits for me has been that I sleep a lot better. The routines are non-invasive, which means that there's no pain but plenty of gain."
J. T. Parker, Bethlehem, PA
"I started Ping's class in 1996 because of an interest in Chinese culture and a desire to find an exercise to do even when having an asthma attack. T'ai Chi was just what I was hoping for and more! Other values and benefits have been derived as a result of practice, such as relief from stress, the ability to remain calm, deeper breathing on a daily basis and feelings of Qi energy in my body, and the fellowship derived from practicing with a group."
L. Frey, Bethlehem, PA
"T'ai Chi is a vital, important and enriching part of my life. For 7 years I have performed the exercises at least several times a week and, at age 81, I am described by my doctor as 'very healthy'. I am not a natural athlete or dancer and am very slow to learn to do the exercises correctly, but the process of learning is immensely satisfying. Ping has given me a gift I will enjoy and learn from all my life."
R. Parr, Bethlehem, PA
Books and DVDs
See the Books and DVDs page
