Taijiquan is an ancient practice of slow flowing movements and shifts of balance that strengthen the whole body while conditioning the tendons and ligaments. This exercises all the joints and major muscle groups in a slow, rhythmic, mindful way, priming the body for whatever demands the day may make.

Taijiquan is for anyone who wants to move with greater strength, grace, and ease. It trains balance and body awareness, and focuses the mind.''Tao Motion Taijiquan" activates the healing energy in you.

Learn to give 70% energy into your actions

The core of the 70 percent rule is a creative art, not a science. It says you should use your full effort and energy, but not to the point of strain.

Through the natural, unrestricted postures the meridians (energy channels) open more, so the life force Qi can circulate freely and then multiply. This is the basis of vitality, health and joy of life! With daily practice your body will become smooth, conscious and your movements gracefulness. The Inner organs are massaged and your senses become more acute. Your mind will be alert, clear and your breathing will become deep and calm.

Books: Mantak Chia & Juan Li, The Inner Structure of Tai Chi, Bruce Frantzis, The big book of Tai Chi

Taijiquan as a weekend or one-day seminar is combined with other easy internal exercises. These may include the "Micro Cosmic Orbit" or the "Inner Smile" (see Tao Qigong) or special breathing techniques, which are always combined with a long yin phase (doing nothing phase). It is there where the healing takes place.

New weekly classes Taijiquan and Qigong classes in Christchurch start 1st Feb 2012. More info and Book your place here.