Clocktower Tai Chi Class Notes for 2014-10-30

Discussed;

• Relaxation practices
• Balance related practices
• Form related practices
• Things to be careful of during Tai Chi Practice

 Relaxation practices

• Wu Chi (see last week's notes)
• Remember; knees point where the toes point
• Gathering energy
• Added the movements of the hands to reach up with palms up and "gather" energy while taking an in breath.  Lower the hands in front and towards the body to move that energy down through the body and into the earth.
• This teaches us to be relaxed downwards and improves balance.

Balance related practices

• Remember that to improve balance these Tai Chi concepts are important.
• Relax downward
• Engage your abdomen muscles in all Tai Chi practices
• Strengthen the legs
• Bow stance each side
• Horse stance
• Stand on one leg, right side than left side

Form related practices

• Tai Chi beginning; 
• Remember; only the wrists go up.  Shoulders, elbows, etc.. all continue to go down.
• All Stepping form moves;
• See "stand on one leg" above.
• Link to the Tung family master who's training most influenced my Tai Chi (through my teachers).
• Excellent short video on the selected moves from the form (very low postures).
• Another good video of the slow form. 

IMPORTANT!!!; Things to be careful of with Tai Chi Practice

• Tai Chi is NOT recommended for someone with bad knees as it requires you to carry your full body weight often on one leg or the other.
• Never do what is being taught if you feel it is not correct for your body.
• Feel free to NOT do or modify anything that is taught in class to fit your special needs
• Stop and sit at anytime if you feel you need to.