 mh84@cornell.edu Ithaca NY |
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Tai Chi Chuan and Qigong In Perspective  Qi (vital energy) is an important aspect of who we are. We are truly electrical, from neural impulses to the depths of the atomic and subatomic particles constituting our physicality. For many centuries, Chinese medical practice has included the manipulation of Qi as a critical variable in preservation, healing and regeneration. Tai Chi Chuan and Qigong disciplines address our mental/emotional/physical aspects, with the goal of harmonious gathering, storing and circulation of Qi. The disciplines are complementary energy "workouts." We encourage you to engage in both practices. These amazing practices cultivate an intimate joining of mind, body and emotions. The ravages of entropy are much less likely to overwhelm us when we are full of energy. Youth and vitality do require intelligent work, but that work must not fatigue us and drain our energy reserves. Softness, mindfulness, and energy will soon be key principles in the up and coming new fitness paradigm. What is the difference between Tai Chi Chuan and Qigong?
Tai Chi Chuan is a choreographed sequence or "Form" consisting of 108 Qigong postures and movements. These postures and movements can be isolated from the form and performed alone; in this manner they would resemble what we have come to recognize as Qigong practice. Qigong practices are easier to learn because demands on memory are not as great as in learning and performing Tai Chi Chuan. However, the treasure chest of Qi gong practices vastly exceeds the degree to which they are utilized in Tai Chi. Learning all 108 Tai Chi Chuan postures gives one a traditional daily practice for developing mindfulness and contemplation. The specific challenge of learning and remembering the Tai Chi Chuan form is one part of what makes it a powerful youth preserving exercise. As we age, we take on fewer mental/physical challenges, hence the engagement of memory for experiencing and appreciating the play between "yin"(softness) and "yang" (hardness) helps develop new neural networks. These networks continue to grow and expand as we age and practice, thus warding off various dementias. Tai Chi Chuan classes will focus on 1) the learning and experience of the "mechanics" of tai chi postures, 2) individualized practice/learning and 3) follow along practice. This format will allow for vital energy (Qi) to be experienced. Medical Qigong classes will focus on methods for addressing
fitness and health needs. Qigong is excellent when there are specific
physical/emotional/energy/fitness conditions which need to be addressed
and resolved expediently. |
