Azure Tai Chi
About Azure Tai Chi
Hello, my name is Simon Jennings, and I have been learning and practising Tai Chi for the last twenty three years, and teaching for the last ten years. Classes will be informal and relaxed, allowing participants to learn at their own pace. My teachers are Karel & Eva Koskuba, 20th generation exponents of Chen Tai Chi, and I also train with Grandmaster Chen Xiaowang on his visits to the UK. Professional memberships: Chinese Internal Arts Association - Qualified Instructor British Council for Chinese Martial Arts - Member Tai Chi Union of Great Britain - Registered Instructor I would be pleased to answer any questions you have about joining the class What is Tai Chi? Tai chi, also called Tai Chi Chuan, is a form of exercise which combines deep breathing and relaxation with slow and gentle movements. This class will focus on practising the health promoting aspects of Tai Chi but maintain links to the Chen Style martial art originally developed in 16th-century China. What are the Benefits of Tai Chi? Regular practice of Tai Chi has been shown to reduce stress, improve balance and general mobility, and increase muscle strength in the legs. Tai Chi is also known to be an effective treatment for back and knee injuries, and to reduce aches and pains in joints. Classes are suitable for most people as the exercises are low impact, putting little pressure on bones and joints. What will a typical class be like? Tai Chi is practised standing up and classes start with gentle warm up, strengthening, and Tai Chi exercises. We then begin to learn a ‘form’, a traditionally structured series of flowing movements performed slowly, providing both moving meditation as well as exercise. We will be learning the Chen style ‘Lao Jia’ old frame.. What should I wear? Practising Tai Chi is best done in loose clothing allowing for unrestricted and comfortable arm & leg movement, typically t-shirt, sports trousers or leggings, and light indoor sports shoes. -its also a good idea to bring a bottle of water to class.
