Tai Chi

The Pipa: China’s Ancient Lute and Its Resonance with Tai Chi

The Pipa: China’s Ancient Lute and Its Resonance with Tai Chi

This in-depth article explores the pipa, China’s ancient four-stringed lute, and its surprising connection to Tai Chi. You’ll learn about the instrument’s 2,000-year history, unique anatomy, right- and left-hand techniques, and the rolling tremolo that makes its voice so distinctive. The article also highlights how the pipa’s sound language reflects Chinese culture, compares it to Western plucked instruments, and explains its role in solo and ensemble repertoire. For Tai Chi practitioners, the piece uncovers the meaning behind the “Play the Pipa” posture, showing how music and martial art share the same essence of flow, balance, and storytelling.

Brush the Knee and Play Pipa in Yang Style Tai Chi

Brush the Knee and Play Pipa in Yang Style Tai Chi

Discover the art of Brush the Knee and Play Pipa in Yang-style Tai Chi — one of the most iconic and practical sequences in the form. This in-depth guide covers everything from step-by-step breakdowns and alignment cues to practice drills, common mistakes, and martial applications. Whether you’re a beginner building fundamentals or an intermediate student refining technique, you’ll learn how to perform this sequence with clarity, confidence, and flow.

Yang Style Ward Off (Peng) in Tai Chi – A Step-by-Step Guide

Yang Style Ward Off (Peng) in Tai Chi – A Step-by-Step Guide

In this guide, we will explore the essential Yang style ward off, also known as Peng, in Tai Chi. This movement is a fundamental defensive technique that embodies the balance, flow, and rooted energy characteristic of Yang style Tai Chi. Whether you are a beginner or looking to refine your form, mastering the ward off posture will enhance your stability, coordination, and internal energy connection.

Tai Chi in Tucson

Tai Chi in Tucson

Discover the flourishing Tai Chi scene in Tucson, Arizona—where ancient movement meets modern wellness in the heart of the Sonoran Desert. This guide explores the health benefits of Tai Chi and highlights Tucson’s top instructors, community programs, and inclusive classes for all skill levels. Whether you're seeking mindfulness, pain relief, or community connection, this article will help you find the perfect Tai Chi class near you.

Tai Chi Quiz!

Tai Chi Quiz!

Think you’ve got your Tai Chi fundamentals down? 🌄 This short but insightful 10-question quiz will test your knowledge of two essential elements of Wudang Yang Style Tai Chi: • Postural Foundations (Questions 1–5) • The “Sun Rises and Moon Sets” Sequence (Questions 6–10) Whether you're a beginner or refining your form, this quiz helps you reflect on the quality of your movement, breath coordination, and mind-body awareness.

Tai Chi Posture

Tai Chi Posture

The Tai Chi posture isn’t just about standing up straight—it’s about cultivating a relaxed, rooted, and energetically aligned body that supports every movement and breath. In this article, we break down the 10 key postural guidelines taught in our latest video, from grounding through the Yongquan points to lifting through the crown (Baihui). Whether you’re just beginning your Tai Chi journey or looking to refine your foundation, these timeless principles will help you feel more centered, calm, and connected.

Tai Chi & Qigong for Health

Tai Chi & Qigong for Health

Join us every Monday morning for a rejuvenating Tai Chi and Qigong class designed to help you cultivate calm, enhance flexibility, and restore your natural energy. Guided by gentle instruction, this class is perfect for all experience levels—no previous knowledge required. You’ll explore foundational techniques from Tai Chi and Qigong, integrating breath, posture, and mindful movement. Whether you’re seeking stress relief, improved balance, or a deeper connection to your body and spirit, this hour-long session offers a peaceful and empowering start to your week.

What is Tai Chi Chuan 太極拳

What is Tai Chi Chuan 太極拳

Tai Chi is a gentle, flowing form of exercise rooted in ancient Chinese martial arts and philosophy. Often described as “meditation in motion,” Tai Chi combines slow, deliberate movements with deep breathing and focused awareness. Originally developed for self-defense, it is now widely practiced for its powerful health benefits, including improved balance, flexibility, mental clarity, and stress reduction. By harmonizing body and mind, Tai Chi promotes relaxation, resilience, and inner peace, making it accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels.

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Classes meet Every Monday at Spoke Coworking