T'ai Chi in London

What is t'ai chi and where did it originate?

T'ai chi 'the great ultimate' is a Chinese martial art and form of exercise which promotes health, relaxation and well-being at all levels. It helps energy flow freely through the body and is suitable for people of all ages. T'ai chi is first and foremost an inner practice. By letting go of fear, the self-defensive and brittle mechanisms of the ego dissolve. Rather than reacting with confusion and inappropriate responses to the situations we encounter in our lives, we can relax into natural strength and give appropriate harmonious responses, coming from a still, calm centre: a place of clear perception.

What are the benefits of learning t'ai chi?

The practice of t'ai chi encourages strength and stamina at all levels: mind, body, spirit, emotion; it balances the entire system. Some of the benefits of continued practice include an inner sense of connectedness, self-respect and self-knowledge - an awakening to a deeper sense of meaning and reality in life, consideration for the well-being of others, true courtesy, dignity and a profound respect for humanity and the natural world. The instinct to be self-protective, to compare and compete, transmutes into respect, willingness to appreciate the needs of others and joy at the empowerment of all. Allegiance to a true lineage of teachers ensures continuation of the principles and the authentic essence of this profound tradition as teacher and student inherit and pass on its teachings.

Do you need to be fit and active to start t'ai chi?

T'ai chi is available to all regardless of personal situation background, gender or age. It is a practice which encourages health, relaxation and well-being.

How do you choose a teacher?

It is important to find an experienced teacher whom you can trust and whose lineage is thentic. There are many different forms of t'ai chi reflecting the different masters and their lineages but there is really one essential t'ai chi which all the different forms reflect - the 'great ultimate' the way of connection and alignment to the unified whole.

Gillian Thomas
Gillian Thomas, BA (Hons.), has trained with teachers from Professor Cheng Man Ch'ing's lineage including Chinese Master Benjamin Pang Jeng Lo. She has taught t'ai chi (yang style) to groups and individuals for many years including teaching NHS staff and patients.

Gillian teaches T’ai Chi at venues in London and Internationally. Classes are also under the supervision of her qualified assistant instructors who have undergone continuous long term training with her over many years.

WEEKLY CLASS:

Fridays 6.30pm - 7.30pm

Primrose Hill Community Centre
Primrose Hill
London NW1

For further information regarding classes and private sessions please telephone 07931 508651