Authentic Tai Chi classes in 
Welwyn and St Albans 

The benefits of Tai Chi come from embodying Cheng Man Ching's internal principles – what we call being ‘in principle’.

 

Our goal is to stay ‘in principle’ not just during class, but in everyday life. 

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What are the internal Tai Chi principles? 

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You can only fully understand the principles when you experience them in your own body.

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However, in our beginners' classes, we have some simple words to guide your 'intentions' as you start to practice.

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We talk about 5 principles, and offer specific 'indications' to help you embody them:  

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• Relaxation 
  We release physical tension and calm our mind. Ultimately, developing ‘looseness’ in body and mind helps us to feel more ‘at ease’

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• Moving from the Tan Tien (centre) 
  We initiate all movement from our Tan Tien. Ultimately, developing our ability to stay 'centred' in our Tan Tien helps us to feel more 'powerful'  

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• Uprightness 
  We are held from above and root into the earth below. Ultimately, developing our connection to heaven & earth helps us to feel 'stronger' and more 'secure'  

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• Being 100% (not 'double-weighted') 
  Our weight is fully in one leg - the other steps empty. Ultimately, developing Yin and Yang to the maximum helps us to feel more ‘alive’ (‘full of Qi’)

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• Beauteous (Fair Maiden's) Hands 
  Our wrist joint is open and our hand is soft. Ultimately, developing internal 'unity' and external 'sensitivity' helps us feel more 'empathy' and 'connection' 

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You may hear other words to express these principles - and certainly you will hear new indications - in classes at each new level.

 

However, these initial words form a solid foundation to build on. ​