Since ancient times the Chinese have attributed all life force to the constant balance of the positive and negative sides of energy.  These are called Yin (-) and Yang (+) and symbolise life and death, day and night, male and female.  Yin and Yang are embodied in the Chinese symbol for Tai-Chi.

Tai-Chi may be loosely defined as the infinite universe or the origin of life.  The Chinese philosophy of Tai-Chi is that to achieve harmony and order in the universe and within the body Yin and Yang should be constantly in balance.  The Chinese say that when this balance is disturbed in any way, chaos and disharmony abound.

Tai-Chi Cheung & Chi-Kung are two of many Chinese mental & physical disciplines, used to preserve health and combat illness.

Tai-Chi Cheung is a form of gentle exercise based on the principle of Tai-Chi. Through this type of exercise, we can achieve a greater understanding of the human mind and body, and a more complete sense of inner harmony. Tai-Chi Cheung is a healing exercise, based on martial arts fighting techniques but practised with slow movements, correct breathing and mental concentration. Tai-Chi can preserve health and youth, as well as increase and build internal energy. The Chinese have practised this formula for youth and longevity for hundreds of years.

Chi Kung means “energy work” or “energy exercise”.

Chi Kung is the oldest healing exercise and has been practised in China for thousands of years. Practised in the same manner as Tai-Chi Cheung, it is comprised of many different short series of exercises and movements. The Chinese regard Chi Kung as a means of fighting disease and illness, as well as promoting general health. Chi Kung is easy to learn and practise, and the benefits easy to achieve. Tai Chi, on the other hand, may take years to perfect and to feel the results.

To practise Tai-Chi Cheung & Chi Kung, follow these steps:

  1. Concentrate

One thought instead of many thoughts, your mind should be concentrating only on what you are about to do.  Concentrate on each breath you take and every move you make. Ignore any noise of distraction, continue with the practice as if the distraction had not been seen or heard – when you can do this, you’re one step towards harmony in mind and body.

  1. Breathe

Breathe naturally, inhaling and exhaling through the nose.  Place the tip of the tongue on the roof of the mouth and close the mouth gently.  Breathing Should be slow, deep, gentle and even.  Do not hyperventilate. During the exercises, breathing should be coordinated with the movements. Always follow the instructor’s directions.

  1. Relax

Relaxation applies to your whole body.  At all times during practice, every joint and muscle should be loose and without strain or obstruction.  Do not wear any tight-fitting clothes or you will not be able to relax your chest and shoulders.  Breathe down deeply to your “Dan Tien” (lower abdomen) to allow the Qi to sink in thereby increasing your internal energy and allowing your circulation to be free and proper throughout your body. When you’ve done this, you are nearer to achieving inner harmony.

  1. The Exercise

Movements should be graceful, flowing between stillness and motion. Strength is practised with gentleness, with ease and tension alternating. Your posture in general should be upright.  Avoid letting your bottom stick out.  Drop the shoulders and relax.  Your eyes generally looking straight forward, but for some movements your eyes should follow the hand movements.

Sometime the movements require squatting down or standing on one leg – this is to build up the strength in the lower part of your body and to achieve better balance.

  1. Success is the result of persistent practice!