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Find out more about Tai Chi and Qigong.
The Internal Arts
Both Qigong and Tai Chi are part of what are known as the "internal arts". Originating in ancient China, these arts emphasize cultivating our inner energy (qi), harmonizing mind and body, and achieving balance with the outside world.
You can look at these arts as “master-keys”, due to their ability to unlock deeper aspects of any movement based art.
What is Tai Chi Chuan (Taijiquan)?
Tai Chi (Taiji) is one of the three main internal martial arts, and can also be seen as a complete Qigong system in its own right. Today it is mainly taught for it's health benefits as opposed to as a fighting system. It is also often referred to as a form of ‘mindfulness in motion’.
Tai Chi uses Qigong exercises with a focus (initially) on loosening the joints and creating a relaxed, effortless body..
Due to it's history as a martial art, Tai Chi involves a wide variety of partner exercises, which come with many unique benefits - such as being able to relax under pressure.
Integrating numerous physical postures and breathing. There is a focus on the systematic release of physical, energetic and mental tension, whilst also strengthening and making the body more robust.
Tai Chi uses Qigong exercises with a focus (initially) on loosening the joints and creating a relaxed, effortless body..
Due to it's history as a martial art, Tai Chi involves a wide variety of partner exercises, which come with many unique benefits - such as being able to relax under pressure.
Integrating numerous physical postures and breathing. There is a focus on the systematic release of physical, energetic and mental tension, whilst also strengthening and making the body more robust.
What is Qigong (Chi Kung)?
Qigong, meaning "energy skill" provides the body of exercises for the internal arts. The practice aims to increase energy (qi) and therefore vitality, general health, strength and the immune system.
Integrating numerous physical postures and breathing. There is a focus on the systematic release of physical, energetic and mental tension, whilst also strengthening and making the body more robust.
Qigong exercises are usually suited to any age and ability.
Integrating numerous physical postures and breathing. There is a focus on the systematic release of physical, energetic and mental tension, whilst also strengthening and making the body more robust.
Qigong exercises are usually suited to any age and ability.
Why Should I learn the Internal Arts?
If you are interested in learning a complete mind-body system from scratch, or if you are looking to deepen your existing practice, the internal arts are for you.
The internal arts offer a profound method for understanding the intricate relationship between body, mind, and movement.
They challenges the notion of movement as simply a sequence of steps to be memorized. Instead, it invites practitioners to explore movement as a dynamic expression of energy, intention, and mindfulness.
While sets of movements provide a framework for some of the practice, the true essence of the arts lies in how we move – with intention, awareness, and a deep connection to the present moment.
Principles over techniques.
Central to internal arts practice is the understanding that it is not about mastering specific techniques, but rather embodying fundamental principles and qualities. These include:
By cultivating these qualities, practitioners develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationship to the body and mind, enhancing their overall well-being and performance in all aspects of life.
They challenges the notion of movement as simply a sequence of steps to be memorized. Instead, it invites practitioners to explore movement as a dynamic expression of energy, intention, and mindfulness.
While sets of movements provide a framework for some of the practice, the true essence of the arts lies in how we move – with intention, awareness, and a deep connection to the present moment.
Principles over techniques.
Central to internal arts practice is the understanding that it is not about mastering specific techniques, but rather embodying fundamental principles and qualities. These include:
- Mindfulness/awareness.
- Correct physical alignments.
- Relaxation (release).
- Balance
By cultivating these qualities, practitioners develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationship to the body and mind, enhancing their overall well-being and performance in all aspects of life.
About Josh
About Josh“I began learning Tai Chi and Qigong from my father at the age of 16, and I have now been practicing for over 24 years.
Initially, my interest was in the fighting arts, but I now practice as means of personal/internal cultivation and developing an understanding of the body, mind, and the world around”
Josh lives in Delft with his family, and is slowly starting to feel comfortable cycling in the pouring rain and speaking Dutch.
Josh is registered as an "Advanced" level teacher by the Tai Chi Union of Great Britain and a member of the Stichting Taijiquan Nederland.
Initially, my interest was in the fighting arts, but I now practice as means of personal/internal cultivation and developing an understanding of the body, mind, and the world around”
Josh lives in Delft with his family, and is slowly starting to feel comfortable cycling in the pouring rain and speaking Dutch.
Josh is registered as an "Advanced" level teacher by the Tai Chi Union of Great Britain and a member of the Stichting Taijiquan Nederland.
"All I can say is : Wow, where has this been all my life? I have really felt a difference to my state of being and energy - something I have been working to improve for a long time now and nothing came as close as his classes!"
Olesya,
Den Haag
Den Haag