FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Tai Chi (also taiji, and pronounced “tie-jee”) is an internal martial art developed centuries ago in China. Its slow, soft, and graceful movements, combined with deep diaphragmatic breathing, strengthen the connection between mind and body. Tai Chi is sometimes called “meditation in motion.” Studies show that it reduces stress and anxiety, improves balance, strength, and self confidence, decreases the risk of falls, maintains bone density, boosts immunity, and can reduce the symptoms of Parkinson’s, fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, lower back pain, and neck pain. At the Westchester Tai Chi Center, we teach the Yang Family Style, which is the style most commonly taught in the United States.

Our Tai Chi program is among the largest and most comprehensive in Westchester County. It was developed as part of the Burke Rehabilitation Hospital’s former community wellness program and has roots that go back more than thirty years. We have a range of classes that include traditional Tai Chi, Tai Chi for Balance, Qigong, and weapons training. The Center is accredited by the American Tai Chi and Qigong Association (ATCQA), and all our classes are taught by certified instructors. There really is no better place to study Tai Chi in the area.

Yes! Of course, it’s always important to consult your doctor before starting a new exercise routine of any kind. But people of all ages and abilities regularly practice Tai Chi. The movements are gentle, slow, and relaxing, and they can be done at multiple levels depending on your individual situation. We’ll help you to find your comfort zone and to challenge yourself as your skills progress.

Absolutely. Scientific studies continue to expand the number of health issues that Tai Chi either alleviates or prevents. For more specific information, click here to see our page on medical studies.

Be comfortable. Many people wear athletic clothing, like sweats or shorts, but anything loose and comfortable that you might normally wear out in the world is fine (except for skirts and dresses). Shoes should be flat with no heel, like sneakers or flat walking shoes, and should be comfortable enough that you can stand in them for an hour-long class.

It’s best to arrive five minutes prior to the start of class to allow yourself time to relax and get settled before the class begins. Instructors are always in the room 15 minutes prior to class if you prefer to arrive earlier.

Make-up classes are available each session and can be arranged through your instructor. Because Tai Chi instruction is designed to allow individuals to move at their own pace, you will not fall behind if you miss a class. Make-up classes are optional.

As a beginner, you won’t need to practice at home in order to keep up with the classes. But the benefits of Tai Chi come with regular practice, so we do recommend that you practice every day. Our handouts and class support videos will help you to remember the movements and will reinforce what you’ve learned in class.

Take a look at our home page and class schedule for descriptions of our classes. If you still have questions, we’ll be happy to help you choose the class that’s best for you: just contact Lisa Rawson at Lisa@WestchesterTaiChiCenter.com or 914-815-1922.

Qigong (also Ch’i Kung, and pronounced “chee-gung”) is an ancient Chinese system of gentle, rhythmic movement and breathing that circulates “Qi,” or life energy, throughout the body. Qigong imparts many of the same health benefits as Tai Chi, such as reduced stress and anxiety, improved balance, strength, and self-confidence, reduced risk of falls, and maintenance of bone density. We use Qigong to warm up at the beginning of each class.

Dao Yin (also “Tao Yin”) is sometimes referred to as Daoist yoga and is even older than Qigong. The movements are done standing and walking and involve the lengthening and stretching of the body. Dao Yin increases the flow of Qi and clears blockages from the energy pathways.