Tai Chi is a westernized reference to the Chinese term “Taijiquan” (Tai Chi Chuan), a martial art noted for its different approach to the same goal as any martial art, self-defense. Taijiquan is comprised of three elements: ‘Tai’, supreme or grand; ‘Ji’, ultimate or great extremities, great pole/polar; and ‘Quan’, fist or form inspiring interpretations such as, "supreme ultimate fist", "boundless fist", and "great extremes boxing".
The difference that distinguishes Taijiquan from other martial arts is its emphasis on “internal power”, allowing that the internal ‘Life-force’ is at least equal to, if not superior to, brute muscle strength or the superior speed of an opponent. By relaxing the body, quieting the mind, and enhancing the spirit’s aliveness, Taijiquan releases the synergistic effects of a well harmonized and energetically coherent practitioner.
Ultimately, Taijiquan achieves speed and strength from a different perspective, one that balances the effects of disproportionate size and aging, through relaxed softness, dynamic tension, and an aware clarity. It is this emphasis on the ‘internal life-force’ and ‘coherent harmony’ as a source of power, speed and superior accomplishment that references Taijiquan as an “Internal Martial Art”.
Benefits associated with Tai Chi:
General Health: balance, flexibility, agility, organ and tissue massage, circulation, blood pressure, enhanced cardio-pulmonary performance..
Mental Health: as a moving meditation, clarity and acuity, stress reduction, confidence, social interaction and cultural stimulation..
Physical Health: as a self-defense against attack, or neutralizing harm otherwise unprepared for, resilience from injuries, stamina, quicker reflexes and awareness of surroundings..
The Teacher, Bob Waers:
Mr. Waers has been fortunate to be awarded Gold, Silver and Bronze medals at various competitions ranging from local to international. Retired from competition, Bob is a national and international judge and referee for Tai Chi competitions. His Tai Chi studies over the past 20 years and his teaching experience over the last 15 years has evolved into a program that is fun and effective. While Mr. Waers is diligent in preserving traditional Tai Chi values he also looks to new and innovative approaches to this dynamic and beneficial Art. Tai Chi is associated with Taoist philosophies, and Taoist perspectives will be introduced as they relate to Tai Chi. Please join us in this exploration of self–discipline and self-discovery through a centuries old system of exercises and moving meditation.