Tai Chi at Open Sky

Classes emphasize Silk Reeling exercises, the Chen Tai Chi form and Chi Gung breathing exercises. These exercises develop one’s awareness of centralizing movement, building and solidifying the base of movement in the legs and abdominal area. The upper body is soft and relaxed and allows the base to send energy through it without tension. That is why Tai Chi is considered an "internal" martial art and does not rely on muscular looking strength to be effective. Tai Chi combines mental intention with chi, internal energy, and breathing to move trained power.

The exercises and form are very important tools for self-development. The slow movements of Tai Chi allow the student the ability to observe and feel their own body in motion. Daily practice gives one the means to improve one’s own flow of energy and power. As the student feels their own posture and change of balance improve, energy flows, healing and strengthening the body.

Steve Kaufmann studies with Master Wang Hai Jun, a master teacher of the Chen style of Tai Chi. Master Wang was a protege of Chen Zenglei. Steven Kaufmann began his studies of Tai Chi over 30 years ago along with Aikido and meditation practice. He has studied with such notable Tai Chi teachers as William Chen, Lou Kleinsmith, Paul Gallagher, Lindsay Williams, and Bruce Kumar Frantzis.

Master Wang Hai Jun returns for seminars November 7-9, 2008

See   Wang Hai Jun seminar photos of March 23-25, 2007

          

TAI CHI SCHEDULE MORNING Saturday at Open Sky Mixed level 11:15 a.m.to 12:15 school year Summer hours July/August 10-11a.m. EVENING Monday at Open Sky Open Practice for mixed level OS students Thursday at Open Sky Beginning level * 5:30-6:30 p.m. 6:30-7:30 p.m. The monthly fee of $40 includes two classes per week. There is a $35 registration fee to join Open Sky classes. *Thursday 6:30-7:30 p.m.-Beginning level class.