Tai Chi Chuan, Qigong & Yoga Classes
Some of our classes are suitable for complete beginners, all Tai Chi Chuan, Qigong & Yoga Classes are conducted by Kim and James, both qualified therapists. All new students complete in a health questionnaire, so that we are aware of problems and injuries that students might have.
The classes are held in a large spacious purpose built mirrored and air conditioned studio. New students are often very nervous about joining a class, they are worried about embarrassing themselves or not being able to keep up. At Shining Tree, we have small classes and give lots of support to our new students, who learn and grow at their own pace without feeling pressurised.
What is Tai Chi Chuan?
Tai Chi Chuan is a therapeutic exercise and martial art system that can benefit any age or level of ability. The fact that we have students from their teens to over eighty proves the versatility of our classes. Once again these systems work on the holistic health of the body, whether it be on a physical, emotional or spiritual level.
Tai Chi means "Supreme Ultimate", and Chuan means "fist". It is a martial art, which is reputed to have been created by Chang San-Feng, a Taoist monk who lived in the Wudang mountains (1324-1419).
Our system of Tai Chi is Wudang Tai Chi Chuan under Master Dan Docherty.
The syllabus that we teach includes:
- Hand Forms (short & long)
- Tou Shou (pushing hands)
- Weapons (sabre, spear & sword)
- San Shou (self defence)
- Eight Section Brocade Qigong
- 24 Yin & Yang Nei-gong
What is Qigong?
Qigong means cultivating energy or life force. There are numerous Qigong systems, some are stationary, as in the holding of static poses with gentle breathing (this can be standing, sitting or even lying down) or dynamic, combining breathing with movement and self massage.
Some of the basic positions in Qigong are;
- Standing Poles
- Eight Section Brocade
- Eighteen Stances
- Five Meridian Qigong
All our classes contain elements of both Qigong Tai Chi Chuan.
What is Yoga?
Yoga means union; union of mind, body & spirit. Therefore the nature of practice must have stillness and movements.
Most people associate Yoga with floor work; this is Hatha or physical Yoga. In fact the word Yoga can be applied to every aspect of your life. When a student is guided properly by an experienced teacher, Yoga can be a profound and deeply healing experience. Shining Tree yoga utilises floor work as well as standing postures, and can be adjusted to suit all abilities.
The challenge for a teacher is students with physical health issues, such as chronic pain problems. Often the gentle and gradual stretching will strengthen and resolve problems by correcting alignment, balancing energy and correcting body biochemistry; this of course must be practiced as part of a healthy life style.
Shining Tree Yoga draws from Tibetan, Japanese, Taoist as well as Hatha techniques, so giving our students a much wider base of knowledge. Also, as both Kim and James are experienced health practitioners, they will use Yoga as a medium of healing for those who need it.
Weekly Classes Timetable:
Classes |
Times |
Monday |
- |
Tuesday |
Yoga Tai Chi / Qigong |
10.15 - 11.30am 7pm - 8.30pm |
Wednesday |
Tai Chi / Qigong Tai Chi / Qigong |
10.15am - 12noon 7pm - 8.30pm |
Thursday |
Nei Gong / Yoga Yoga |
6am - 7.30am 7pm - 8.30pm |
Friday |
Nei Gong / Yoga Meditation Yoga |
6am - 7.30am 11.30am *FREE 7pm - 8.30pm |
Saturday |
Tai Chi / Qigong Yoga |
8am - 10/11am 3pm - 4.30pm |
Sunday |
Tai Chi / Qigong |
10am |
Prices:
£8 |
- for the 1st class |
£65 |
- for a block of 10 weekly consecutive classes |
£10 a week |
- by standing order for unlimited classes |
FAQ's:
Is Yoga, Tai Chi or Qigong right for me?
Almost everyone can enjoy all lessons. The challenge for a teacher is students with physical health issues, such as chronic pain problems.
Often the gentle and gradual stretching will strengthen and resolve problems by correcting alignment, balancing energy and correcting body biochemistry; this of course must be practiced as part of a healthy life style.
If you have particular concerns regarding your ability, please check with us during your consultation.
Do I need to book?
Yes, please contact us to check availability, we often have room to accommodate most people in most classes.
Bookings are normally taken over the phone prior to each class, this gives us the opportunity to speak with you prior to your class, which helps us to assess any of your physical needs including special adjustments for injuries or mobility issues.
What do I need to bring?
Mats are provided but you are welcome to bring your own, as well as blankets or cushions as required.
What do I wear?
We recommend lose and comfortable clothing for all our classes. Lockers, changing rooms and showers are available and are free to use (no change required).
