FAQ
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-Tao, A Way to
Enhance Your Life
Welcome to Tao Tai Chi Studio. We encourage you to explore the ancient art and the philosophical basis of Tai Chi. We hope that your studies improve your overall wellness and help you to find your own Tao, a peaceful path.
As one of many martial art styles, ancient Tai Chi training encourages students to attain higher life goals in addition to exercising one’s mind and body. Growth will be slow and steady, our goal is to make it an enjoyable experience. The following information may be helpful for those of you who have questions.
Q: Do you teach fighting skills?
A: Our focus is on improving wellness in your Tai Chi practice and not focusing on the fighting skills that other Tai Chi schools may offer. Our training involves Qi Gong, meditation, and some martial art applications which will help you to understand Tai Chi concepts.
Q: Do you provide practice videos for students?
A: We have chosen not to provide videos for students. At Tao Tai Chi Studio we focus on traditional teaching methods as practiced on Wudang Mountain. We offer a one on one learning environment for our students. In-person classes offer students the best method for comprehensive learning. Our students are taught by a classically trained instructor and they are given the opportunity to ask questions and learn in a supportive environment. In addition, we offer one on one or small group classes that provide correction when needed and guidance as the students start to learn different forms.
Q: Can you recommend literature on Tai Chi?
A: Yes but understand that the best way to improve your Tai Chi skills is by experiencing classes with your classmates and practicing daily.
Q: Do you offer private lessons?
A: If your intentions are to focus on a specific practice, such as Qi Gong, long-form, or the sword form, we suggest that you schedule one on one private classes. We pride ourselves on being flexible and accommodating our students' busy schedules.
Q: Do you offer online classes?
A: We currently do not offer online classes. Tao Tai Chi Studio incorporates traditional Chinese methods to guide in-person students in order to allow them to gradually attain inner strength and to challenge themselves.
Q: I did research online about which style is the best for beginners, but I soon discovered that there are many options. Which style is best for me?
A: At Tao Tai Chi Studio, we encourage students to build upon the fundamentals. This method will help to build upon the basics, which will in turn support them in their future studies, no matter the form they ultimately choose.
Tai Chi has been practiced and adapted over the centuries and encompasses a variety of styles. A few examples of these styles are Wu Dang (wǔ dāng, 武當), Yang-style (yáng shì, 楊式), Cheng-style (chén shì, 陳式), Wu-style (wǔ shì, 武式), and Sun-style Tai Chi (sūn shì tài jí, 孫式太極), there are many more. Each style is a different interpretation of movements, but all are based on strong fundamentals.
All styles of Tai Chi involve training in internal forces, which includes Qi gong, meditation; pushing hands; self-defense techniques; weapons and solo hand routines, these are known as forms.
In-person classes offer students the best method for comprehensive learning. At Tao Tai Chi Studio, students are taught by classically trained instructors and given the opportunity to ask questions and learn in a supportive environment.
While you are at Tao Tai Chi Studio, we will use our traditional method to teach. Once you have built a solid base, we will help you to choose the styles or forms best suited to your goals.
Q: Do you offer sword forms and traditional long forms?
A: If you prefer to learn a simplified Tai Chi fan form or sword form, you will first need to finish at least 30-hours of beginner training besides Zhang San Feng Tai Chi 13 shì. If you have the determination to devote more than 100 hours within a two year period in studying a long-form such as the 115 segment Yang style form, or the traditional sword form, Tai Chi Fan form, you will need to complete at least three of the beginner courses. The other option is to sign up for private sessions.
Q: What if I need to stop attending classes for a while?
A: If you decide to take a temporary absence from your Tai Chi instructions, you are welcome to return whenever you are ready and depending upon there being an open slot.
Q: Which class should I choose?
A: Our beginner's classes involve a three-course regimen, and each of the lessons has both a slow and a fast-paced style. Feel free to inform me when you are ready to move to the next level, and we will discuss options.
Q: Do I need to attend classes every week?
A: If you have goals to improve your Tai Chi skills, yes, you need to attend classes every week, and you also need to practice daily at home. For your safety, we suggest that you gradually increase your home practice session's frequency, intensity, and duration. For those who have never learned the fundamentals of Tai Chi, consider dividing your daily practice into short sessions from 2 up to 10 minutes during the first month. We will always take the time to correct you when you are taking a risk in a class. At home remember, "Don't practice if you are not sure."
Q: Do I need to practice at home?
A: If you have goals to improve your Tai Chi skills, yes, you need to attend classes every week, and you also need to practice daily at home. For your safety, we suggest that you gradually increase your home practice session's frequency, intensity, and duration. For those who have never learned the fundamentals of Tai Chi, consider dividing your daily practice into short sessions from 2 up to 10 minutes during the first month. We will always take the time to correct you when you are taking a risk in a class. At home remember, "Don't practice if you are not sure."
Q: What if I come late to a class?
A: If you are late, please walk in quietly without disruption. If you need to miss a class please do not worry if you do not have the time to message the instructor.
Q: Can I bring a friend to a class?
A: We offer a limited class size, so you would need to ask your instructor prior to class. You may bring a friend to private classes, and special programs for family and friend groups.
We have learned much from our students and we are grateful to be in a position to help each of you enjoy your Tai Chi journey and establish your own short or long term plans. Feel free to email taotaichistudio@gmail.com or text 845-214-8579 with questions, comments or concerns regarding your schedule.
Tao Tai Chi Studio
Jing Shuai