Cultivating Internal Fire & Community Health

Discover the dynamic and powerful foundations of Chen Style Taijiquan, the oldest of the major Tai Chi lineages. This class is designed for all age groups and experience levels, emphasizing overall health, longevity, and community connection. We go beyond gentle movements to delve into the core principles of Nei Gong (internal skill) and the unique concept of Internal Fire (Nei Huo).

Health, Community, and Internal Cultivation

• Holistic Health Focus: Learn to use the continuous, alternating movements (Yin and Yang) to stimulate circulation, improve balance, reduce stress, and strengthen the body from the inside out. This "Internal Fire" is the cultivation of robust vitality and mental clarity necessary for a long, healthy life.
• A Welcoming Community: Tai Chi is a communal practice. We foster a supportive environment where participants of all ages (from teens to seniors) can learn together, sharing the journey toward better health and personal growth.

Learn the Taiji (Tai Chi) Foundation

• The Theory of Internal Fire: Understand how the continuous, alternating use of slow, soft movements (Yin) and explosive power releases (Fa Jin or Yang) stimulates the body’s metabolic and energetic center. This "Internal Fire" is not aggression, but the cultivation of robust vitality, mental clarity, and deep relaxation.
• Postures and Drills: We will systematically explore essential principles through Standing Meditation (Zhan Zhuang) and core exercises to build correct body alignment and strength.
• Silk Reeling (ChanSiGong): Master the spiral, coiling, and uncoiling movements that generate and guide qi (vital energy) throughout the body, forming the basis for internal cultivation.

Lao Jia Yi Lu Form Instruction

• Accessible Learning: The form is taught step-by-step, making it manageable for beginners while offering depth for experienced practitioners. We focus on proper body mechanics and breathwork suitable for every age.
• Learning Progression: We will break down the form into manageable sections, focusing initially on the fundamental principles demonstrated in key movements that benefit joint health and core strength such as:
  • Buddha's Warrior Attendant Pounds the Mortar (The opening and closing movements).
  • Six Sealing, Four Closing (Focusing on controlling the expansion and contraction of qi).
  • The Single Whip (Developing the unified spiraling power of Chan Si Jin).
• Emphasis on Transitions: Instruction will focus heavily on the transitions between postures, as this is where the spiraling power and integration of the whole body are truly developed. We will practice moving from soft, slow movement to controlled, sudden bursts of power (Fa Jin).
• Connecting the Mind and Body: We practice using Yi (intent/mind) to lead the Qi, achieving a blend of fluid grace and inner strength that promotes deep relaxation and mental focus.
• Application: Basic martial applications will be explored to deepen the understanding of how the internal principles are expressed functionally.

Lao Jai Yi Lu - Old Frame First Road Form

Who is This Class For?

This class is perfect for anyone seeking a profound yet accessible path to wellness, improved balance, increased energy, and a supportive social setting. No previous experience is required—just an interest in unlocking your potential for internal strength and energetic resilience.

First Class is Free!