Chinese Martial Arts & Tai Chi Chuan
SHAOLIN CH’UAN OF NORTH CHINA – TRADITIONAL CHINESE MARTIAL ART
Immerse yourself in the silence of Chan meditation, feel the martial discipline of the Shaolin Temple, master the energy of Chi Gong and the harmony of Tai Chi. Each practice will bring you closer to mastery of mind and body to develop your inner strength and the ability to generate effective and controlled muscle tension, fundamental for the smooth and powerful execution of the techniques. The training path is tailored to each individual: you can train freely, because exams are never compulsory. But if you aim higher, we offer official pathways to reach the rank of black belt.
TAI CHI CHUAN
Taijiquan, or Tai Chi Chuan, also known as “shadow boxing”. Traditional Chinese martial art for health (primarily) and defense in which, through a continuous sequence of postures performed with slow, soft (but with fullness), rounded and attentive movements (concentration/presence on the execution of the movement and the posture assumed), a fight with an imaginary opponent is simulated. The slow and somewhat “suspended” movement helps to tone the body and facilitates calmer and deeper breathing. By easing muscle tension, the circulation of blood and the vital energy (Qi, or Chi) associated with it is promoted. Continuous focus on execution promotes mental concentration.
The first part of the lesson will be dedicated to a series of loosening and strengthening exercises, especially of the lower part of the body (legs), creating solid foundations for subsequent construction.
An integral part of the course will also be a practice in pairs known as “Tui Shou”, often translated as “pushing hands”, or “sticky hands”; an exercise intended, rather than to push/dodge, to develop sensitivity and listening in a synergistic exchange with one’s training partner/opponent.
