Tai Chi and Qigong

Tai Chi and Qigong
Active Tai Chi Movements in the morning session are great for improved circulation, strength, energy, flexibility, balance, and well-being.  We will learn ways to relax as we move with greater efficiency and flexibility.  The movements, including BOW AND ARROW,  DRAGONS PLAY IN THE CLOUDS, THE FISHERMAN, and THE TIGER STRIKES improve focus, strength, relaxation and energy flow to all parts of the body.  These movements can be adapted for practice in a seated position if preferred.   Any level of fitness is appropriate. Cutting edge information on recent studies on the benefits of Tai Chi will be included. Class will end with a meditative movement to focus the warm Chi inside and feel centered for the rest of the day.  All of the movements involve focusing the mind on the movement of Chi in the body.   I hope you come every day, but you may drop in any day.  Each day will be slightly different.  You will go home with a 15 minute Tai Chi warmup that can become part of your life. Tai Chi and Qigong are the perfect compliment to the rest of your life. The afternoon session will be Qigong, the grandfather of Tai Chi.  The slower more meditative movements of Qigong are useful for finding calmness and relaxation as well as strengthening and healing the inner organs, improving focus, concentration and balance.  It can be done standing, seated or even lying down.  We will learn specific movements for strengthening the heart, lungs, liver, digestive system and the other organs of the body.  Everyone is welcome.  You can drop in at any time, or come for the full week.  Learning the specific movements for different parts of the body will enable you to carry on with this simple, relaxing practice when you return home.  Qigong can become a regular part of your life.  I hope you will join us when you can for this energizing practice!

Cari Shurman has studied Tai Chi and Qigong for 25 years in the US and China, having made five trips to China. She has completed two courses in Qigong at the Medical Institute of Qigong in Beijing.  She lectures on Qigong and Tai Chi in schools throughout the US and has taught at Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health and the National Qigong Association.   Cari co-founded and co-directed the Within Wellness Center in Miami.  She teaches adult classes in her hometown of Aspen, CO.  The children’s program she developed, Tai Chi for Kids©, taichiforkids.com, is now taught at thousands of schools around the world.  Cari trains teachers in the New York City Public Schools to implement her Tai Chi program and bring peace and focus to school children throughout the city.  Cari recently trained the South African Police Department, Juvenile Division in Cape Town to use Tai Chi in their programs for the prevention of violence.  She has also worked with schools in Myanmar showing teachers how to improve focus and health with their students.  She loves to travel and spread the benefits of Tai Chi to all ages, everywhere.