T'ai Chi Ch'uan, most commonly known as T'ai Chi, is an ancient form of Chinese exercise that was created roughly seven hundred years ago by Chang San Feng during the Sung Dynasty.  Though there are many forms and styles in existence today, the Yang style is considered the most widely practiced in the West.  The fundamental principles of T'ai Chi fall into four categories: health, self-defense, mental stimulation, and the way to immortality.  

 

The name T'ai Chi Chuan can be translated as "Grand Ultimate Fist" in Chinese. T'ai Chi is considered to be the ultimate fighting art; however, it can take decades to truly master this internally based system of self-defense.  The beauty, as well as the challenge, of T'ai Chi is that it offers a lifetime of personal challenge and self-mastery.

 

In T'ai Chi class, you will learn to calm and still your thoughts, control your breathing, develop supple, fluid joints, and increased balance.  T'ai Chi offers a challenge to students in all walks of life.  Whether you are a young person attending school, a mature working adult, or a senior enjoying your golden years, T'ai Chi can give you increased mental and physical benefits through the applications of flowing movements, calm, controlled breathing, and meditative contemplation.