Tai Chi & Qi Gong
What are Tai Chi and Qi Gong?
Tai Chi and Qi Gong are related ancient arts that can be used to develop one's Qi or Energy for improved health and increased longevity. Tai Chi is famous for its beautiful, slow circular movements, and did you know that these movements are generated from within? Tai Chi and Qi Gong develop mind/body awareness. They are moving meditations that increase strength from the inside out. Practitioners move with greater ease and efficiency, both mentally and physically. Tai Chi and Qi Gong reduce blood pressure, improve immune function, improve oxygen utilization, increase bone density, increase knee and ankle strength and flexibility, and reduce levels of stress. 
Class Descriptions
Tai Chi Level I - (Sponsored by Kaiser Permanente) Traditionally, Tai Chi exercise is used for both maintaining good health and healing specific ailments. Tai Chi provides a safe, gradual way of improving flexibility and range of motion to help arthritis. Come and learn simple movements that build and focus on healing energy to: • Improve circulation • Balance organs and systems • Strengthen bones • Promote flexibility • Relax • Reduce stress. Space is limited, so register early. By Jude Hasken
Tai Chi - Level II - (Sponsored by Kaiser Permanente) Level II class is for more advanced Tai Chi participants who have already learned basic Tai Chi skills. It includes more advanced Tai Chi forms, breathing techniques, and applications of Tai Chi principles to manage stress. You are considered advanced if you have practiced Tai Chi Level I for 6 -12 months. Space is limited, so register early. By Jude Hasken
Tai Chi – Yang Style 24 Forms - This class focuses on the Yang Style 24 Forms. In 1956 the Chinese government brought together a panel of Master Tai Chi teachers to synthesize many Tai Chi forms and agree on a version of classic moves that anyone can learn for great benefit. This "Simplified" 24 Forms is taught worldwide and here at Decatur Healing Arts. 8-week Sessions. By Jude Hasken
Tai Chi - Yang Style 108 Forms - This is the original Yang Family Style Long Form Tai Chi Chuan, comprised of 108 movements divided into three sections. Once learned, the Form takes around 20 minutes to perform in its entirety, giving the practitioner a good workout in a single Form. 24 Forms is a prerequisite for this class, and will also be worked on extensively to solidify and smooth out. Additionally, Tai Chi history and theories will be discussed. 8-week Sessions. By Jude Hasken
Tai Chi/Qi Gong Basics – Wudang Style! a six week series taught by Corinne Chaves based in her years of study with Taoist priest and Tai Chi master, Master Yun Xiang Tseng (affectionately known as Master Chen). Corinne will teach Tai Chi walking, fundamental Tai Chi movements, stretching and various Qi Gong forms. These teachings allow your body the opportunity to heal, strengthen and transform as you work with your essential energy through Qi Gong and the supreme ultimate Qi Gong - Tai Chi. Connect to your internal energy, strengthen your foundation and learn to move. Excellent for beginners and for experienced practitioners who want to improve their form.
Qi Gong All Levels (this class is temporarily suspended) - Teaches popular Qi Gong forms practiced by millions of South Asians in China, Singapore, Thailand and Japan. They are suitable for practice by anyone. Originally developed for people convalescing from a variety of ailments, their popularity has spread widely as a regular regimen for health improvement and maintenance. This class series will set you on the path to improved health and well-being!
Chen-Style Tai Chi - This style has more kicking and jumping than Yang style, and thus is especially suitable for young people. This class will begin from Chen-style basic training such as Silk Reeling to Chen-style 18 forms. 18 forms is the basis of Chen-style Laojiayilu (74 forms). Thus, once the students learn 18 forms, the class will move on to 74 forms. Advanced students can also learn Chen-style single sword and single broadsword. By Xiaoyi Dong (Solange)
Sun Style Tai Chi for Arthritis - Tai Chi from the Arthritis Foundation uses the gentle flowing movements of Sun-style Tai Chi to promote mental and physical strength, stamina and flexibility. This gentle form of exercise is appropriate for those diagnosed with arthritis or other chronic diseases causing joint pain, stiffness or limited range of motion. It is suitable for anyone with balance issues, back problems or challenges that have prevented them from taking Tai Chi before. Studies have shown that many who participate in three months of Tai Chi from the Arthritis Foundation enjoy reduced pain, improved balance and function, better sleep, increased energy, and an improved outlook. Drop-ins welcome. You may use your class card for this class. Taught by Eleanor Hand.