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Click on the picture to start (or stop) this video

All Tai Chi is Qigong, but... 

​....not all Qigong is Tai Chi. Ours definitely is, as we work with the flows of energy inherent in our Tai Chi form. We use it as a way to become more aware of these energy flows, which also represent emotions in the body, and then to regulate them as needed. ​

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We focus on our breathing, and combine this with either holding of an individual position, continuously moving between left and right versions of the position, or developing this into a flowing 'walk'. We also teach specific self massages. All this is supported with mental imagery to help move the Qi. 

 

Our 5-element Qigong (or Ch'i Kung), is also known as 'Roots & Branches', and the video is from TCF's Roots & Branches DVD. It is a wonderful description of Qi. Although Qi (or Ch'i) sounds a bit like the Chi in Tai Chi, it is a different Chinese word. Often translated as 'energy', or even 'life force', it can also mean 'breath'. So Qigong is 'cultivation of Qi', but can also simply be called 'breath work'.

 

We teach Qigong in classes which typically focus in each class on just one particular  "element" in the Chinese system. Or you can join TCF's 'at home' seasonal 'tunings'. 

​There are 5 elements = seasons = energies / emotions: 

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  • Water = Winter = Courage / Strength  (Fear / Anxiety the negatives) 

  • Wood = Spring = Determination  (Frustration / Anger the negatives) 

  • Fire = Summer = Joyful / Carefree  (Out of Control / Careless the negatives)

  • Earth = Harvest = Love / Nurture  (Disgust / Shame the negatives) 

  • Metal = Autumn = Being Inspired (Being deflated / Sad the negatives) ​

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Click here for a picture which links elements with Tai Chi postures and emotions.​ 

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