What is T'ai-Chi?

T'ai-Chi is a Chinese word usually translated as "Supreme Ultimate". The T'ai-Chi symbol, also known as the yin/yang symbol represents a universal principle, the idea of an underlying dynamic balance which supports and balances all things. T'ai-Chi Ch'uan is a martial art based on this principle. The basic training of this art is what most people call "T'ai-Chi". It is done in slow motion and is excellent for health, balance, self-awareness, and relaxation.

What I Teach

There are many different styles of T'ai-Chi Ch'uan. I teach a symmetrical version of the Yang family style created by Grandmaster Tchoung Ta-Tchen. All exercises are done left and right handed and include vitality work (Chi Kung), standing mediations, solo movements (short and long forms), partnered sensitivity training (pushing hands), martial applications (including a partnered form), a faster more vigorous form as well as T'ai-Chi weaponry (broadsword, double-edged sword, and walking cane forms).

My Approach

Although T'ai-Chi Ch'uan is a martial art and I teach it that way, I am not primarily combat oriented. My focus is on using martial exercises to develop balance, relaxation, grounding, and connectedness. I use the T'ai-Chi system as a physical, spiritual, and psychological mirror which reflects resistance to as well as surrender to life, love and wholeness.

Levels Of Training

There are no belts in T'ai-Chi Ch'uan but I do teach using four interconnected levels of work.

The Bone Level: learning the basic movements and fundamentals of effective posture and alignment

The Muscle Level: learning to let go of excess muscle tension to find fluidity, smoothness and grace

The Nervous System or Energy Level: learning to coordinate movements effectively with breath and intent

The Spirit Level: learning to release ego control and surrender into the flow and moment of existence

How I Teach

I mainly teach private lessons. I enjoy working with people one-on-one and can tailor a T'ai-Chi curriculum to suit your needs, fitness level, and personal goals. You don't need to study the entire art to benefit from T'ai-Chi Ch'uan training. Lessons are informal and friendly but serious. I am thorough, patient, and I teach "from the ground up". I give students strong basics and point the way to deeper relaxation, spiritual surrender, and understanding of T'ai-Chi principles in daily life. 

My Background

I was certified to teach this system by Andrew Dale, chief instructor of Xin Qi She Dojo in Seattle, WA. I have been teaching since 1985. I've worked with many beginners, including senior citizens, and pace instructions to each student's individual learning speed and style. In addition to T'ai-Chi Ch'uan, I have studied other movement arts including Bagua, Hsing-I, Chen Style T'ai-Chi Ch'uan, Contact Improvisation, Aikido, Yoga, and Non-Classical Gung-Fu.