Relax, Breath, and Move with Traditional Tai-Chi in Frederick MD
What is Tai-Chi?
Tai-Chi is an ancient martial art created hundreds of years ago. It is part of a group of martial arts that are referred to as "Internal". This is due to the fact that in the practice of Tai-Chi one cultivates an energy called "Jin" or intrinsic energy and not outward muscular force as in so-called "external" styles of martial arts. It is based in the Doaist Philosophy of opposing forces or energies called Yin and Yang. Tai-Chi is an extremely accessible form of exercise for all ages and health conditions. Instead of exercising and training idividual muscle groups as is done in most typical kinds of exercise, a practitioner is taught to release any muscular tension. Tai-Chi relies on posture, breathe, concentration of mind, and cultivation of Chi to not only strengthen the body but to unify it as well.
How We Teach New Practitioners
It is all about principles.
Tai-Chi is not a form. It is a set of principles practiced by doing a form. Learning a form in a traditional manner can be very difficult and time consuming. Cain starts students off with the basic body mechanics and an obtainable small part of the form called "Grasp the Sparrow's Tail". From there the principles of Tai-Chi are investigated by students through practice, investigation and getting corrections from the Teacher.