SE Alleyne

Student(s) will be introduced to the historical background of taijiquan, its many styles (Yang, Wu (2 Wu styles, Chen and Sun style) and the yangsheng tradition, encompassing postural and exercise elements of training.

Zhanzhuang/Taijizhuang is the beginning element of basic practice and training which entails standing in static posture(s) for an extended period of time to balance the body and have the student aware of postural inequities of the musculoskeletal system. This lasts 3 months and is mandatory for all new students since this is the beginning training phase of taijiquan

Next phase is individul posture trainiing (3-6 months) where the students learns basic postures and when this is dome, the form sequence is taught.  Form sequence is about 6-9 months while stating that this depends on the student.  The main practice is the Yangsheng Tradition involving elements of neigong (as opposed to the martial origin) where heath and wellness within a neo-Daoist paradigm, is on par with allowing the body to return to homeostasis.

- National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM): #1411548

- Instructor Taijiquan: Five (5) main style

- Former taijiquan competitor for over 10 years

- Instructor: Qigong

- 15 years experience. Taught at local Park District for 9 years. Adjunct instructor at Oakton Community College Emeritus Program

- Worked in Clinical Research for 18 years

- Harvard School of Medicine, Dept of Continuing Education, Boston, MA Mind Body Medical Institute : Clinical Training in Mind Body Medicine

When I was practicing taijiquan (tai chi), many onlookers were mesmerized by this slow style of activity along with the static posture holding of zhanzhuang. Zhanzhuang is where the student holds a static posture (no movement) for an extended period of time while allowing the body to 'center itself' while promoting homeostasis through "nothingness". Over time, the 'qi' and blood works to mitigate stiffness and 'warm' the musculoskeletal system!

I have worked with all levels of curiosity!

My advice would be to read up on the history and background of the art you are studying and see if it fits into your own perception of what is expected of perspective students. In all endeavours, hard work is the only way to achieve and practice discipline and perseverance and after a while, they become part of the path.