Beginner tai chi class

intro to wudang tai chi

Moving Meditation, Connecting Breath, Body, and Mind


 
 

about beginner tai chi classes

Beginner Tai Chi is the gateway to balance and a healthier lifestyle. It provides a gentle introduction to Tai Chi's fundamental principles, making the art accessible to individuals of all fitness levels and ages. In these classes, you will learn the basics of Tai Chi, including foundational movements, breathing techniques, and meditation practices.

 

 

Choose what fits your schedule

sunday and wednesday beginner classes

tai chi breathe

Wednesday 10-11 a.m.

  • Focus on basic movements and breathing techniques

  • Learning Tai Chi basics and the 13 postures

  • Relaxation and nervous system regulation

4 Wednesdays every month

$100

$80

tai chi flow

Sunday 10-11 a.m.

  • Focus on flowing, continuous movement

  • Learning the 28 step form

  • Flow anti anxiety and doing real gwood

4 Sundays every month

$100

$80

breathe and flow

Wednesdays and Sundays 10-11 a.m.

  • Focus on flowing, continuous movement

  • Learning the 28 step form

  • Flow anti anxiety and doing real gwood

4 Sundays every month

$160

$130


 

benefits of beginner tai chi

  • Tai Chi is renowned for its ability to enhance balance by focusing on controlled, slow movements and mindful posture. As practitioners shift weight from one foot to another in coordinated sequences, they strengthen the stabilizing muscles and improve proprioception, or the awareness of body position. This process not only sharpens physical balance but also reduces the risk of falls, particularly in older adults. Over time, Tai Chi cultivates greater bodily coordination, ensuring more fluid movements and a stable, grounded presence both during practice and in daily life.on text goes here

  • Tai Chi integrates a full range of motion in its flowing sequences, helping to stretch and elongate muscles while simultaneously building strength. The gentle, continuous movements engage both the large and smaller muscle groups, toning the body without the strain associated with more intense forms of exercise. As a result, Tai Chi improves joint flexibility, muscle endurance, and core strength, making it an ideal practice for anyone seeking to enhance physical resilience while maintaining fluidity and grace.

  • Tai Chi emphasizes deep, mindful breathing, which plays a vital role in boosting respiratory health. The slow, deliberate inhalations and exhalations practiced alongside the movements help expand lung capacity, increase oxygen intake, and improve overall breathing efficiency. This practice strengthens the diaphragm and promotes better oxygen exchange, contributing to increased vitality and reduced stress. Over time, regular Tai Chi practice can lead to improved cardiovascular and respiratory function, enhancing the body's ability to maintain balanced, healthy breathing patterns.

  • Tai Chi is not only a physical practice but also a meditative one, making it an excellent tool for improving sleep quality. The calming, rhythmic movements help soothe the nervous system, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation. By encouraging mindful breathing and relaxation, Tai Chi helps to quiet the mind and release tension in the body, which can lead to better sleep onset and a more restful night. For those struggling with insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns, the practice serves as a natural way to promote deeper, more restorative sleep.


 

Getting Started: What to Expect in a Beginner Tai Chi Class

  • For Tai Chi practice, comfort is key. Wear loose, breathable clothing that allows you to move freely and without restriction. Lightweight, natural fabrics like cotton are ideal, as they allow your body to breathe and adjust to temperature changes. As for footwear, soft-soled shoes or lightweight indoor sneakers are recommended to provide support while still allowing you to feel grounded. Some practitioners prefer practicing barefoot or in socks for greater sensitivity to the floor. The goal is to feel at ease, so focus on clothing that helps you move with flow and flexibility.

  • Tai Chi incorporates a variety of poses that form the foundation of its flowing movements. Some essential poses include "Opening," raising the hands in concert with the breath, which begins the practice with a grounding stance, "Grasp the Bird’s Tail," a key sequence that emphasizes weight shifting and arm movements, and "Single Whip," which opens the chest and stretches the body. Other poses, like "Repulse the Monkey" and "Cloud Hands," build coordination and balance. Each pose is linked in a continuous, harmonious flow, promoting both stability and fluidity throughout the practice.

  • Breathing in Tai Chi is slow, deep, and intentional, often synchronized with each movement. One common technique is abdominal or diaphragmatic breathing, where the breath is drawn deeply into the belly, expanding the lower abdomen on the inhale and gently contracting it on the exhale. This type of breathing helps calm the nervous system and increases oxygen flow. Tai Chi emphasizes the importance of breathing smoothly through the nose and coordinating each breath with specific movements to enhance the flow of energy (Qi) and promote relaxation throughout the practice.

  • Guided meditation is an integral part of Tai Chi, helping to center the mind and cultivate mindfulness before, during, and after practice. A typical Tai Chi meditation may begin with focusing on the breath, allowing thoughts to settle as you bring awareness to the present moment. Visualizations, such as imagining energy flowing through the body or grounding yourself in nature, are often used to deepen the connection between mind and body. By incorporating guided meditation, Tai Chi enhances mental clarity, reduces stress, and encourages a sense of inner peace and balance.


 

Why Choose Okanagan Valley Wudang for Your Tai Chi Journey

  • Our Tai Chi classes are led by highly skilled and compassionate instructors with years of experience in both teaching and practicing Tai Chi. They are dedicated not only to sharing the art’s deep traditions but also to creating a supportive and encouraging learning environment. Each instructor tailors their guidance to meet the needs of every student, whether you're a beginner or an advanced practitioner. Their goal is to help you develop at your own pace, while fostering personal growth, mindfulness, and physical well-being through Tai Chi.

  • We pride ourselves on maintaining a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where everyone is encouraged to participate, regardless of experience, age, or physical ability. Our community is diverse, and we value the unique perspectives each individual brings to the practice. Whether you're new to Tai Chi or a seasoned practitioner, you'll find a space that nurtures growth, respect, and mutual support. We believe that Tai Chi is for everyone, and our classes reflect that ethos by fostering a sense of belonging and connection.

  • We offer a range of Tai Chi classes to accommodate different schedules, skill levels, and interests. From beginner classes like Tai Chi Flow and Breathe, that focus on the fundamentals to our Tai Chi Immersion class that delves into the intricacies of form and flow, there’s something for everyone. Our beginner Tai Chi classes are particularly good for seniors, focused on balance and joint health, as well as Tai Chi with meditation for those seeking a deeper mind-body connection. Whether you're looking for a gentle practice or a more dynamic experience, our varied offerings allow you to explore Tai Chi in the way that suits you best.


 

Your First Class: Tips for a Successful Experience

  • To make the most of your Tai Chi practice, arriving early and prepared is key. Give yourself enough time to settle in, mentally shift from your day’s activities, and focus on the present moment. Arriving 5–10 minutes before class allows you to center yourself, warm up, and establish a calm mindset for the session. Being prepared also means wearing appropriate clothing, having a water bottle on hand, and coming with a clear, open mind, ready to fully engage in the practice. This preparation enhances your experience and sets the tone for a focused and fulfilling class.

  • Tai Chi is about moving with awareness and respect for your body’s current state. It’s important to listen to your body’s signals and adjust accordingly, whether that means modifying movements or taking a moment to rest. Tai Chi is a gentle practice, but it still engages muscles, joints, and the breath, so tuning in to how you feel ensures that you practice safely and effectively. Remember, there’s no need to push through discomfort or pain—Tai Chi is about balance and flow, so give yourself permission to move in harmony with your body’s needs.

  • Tai Chi is a journey, and like any skill, it takes time to develop proficiency. Embrace the learning process with patience and an open mind. Rather than striving for perfection in each movement, focus on gradual improvement, understanding that each class builds on the last. Tai Chi encourages mindfulness, so approach each practice with curiosity and a willingness to explore. Progress comes with persistence, and the beauty of Tai Chi lies in the continuous refinement of body awareness, balance, and energy flow over time.

  • Consistency is key to unlocking the benefits of Tai Chi. Regular practice allows you to deepen your understanding, refine your movements, and cultivate the mental and physical benefits of the art. Whether attending classes or practicing at home, maintaining a steady routine helps you build on your progress, improve your skills, and foster a lasting connection with Tai Chi. Over time, you’ll notice increased balance, flexibility, and a sense of calm, all of which are best achieved by committing to a consistent practice schedule.


 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Beginner Tai Chi

  • Yes, beginner Tai Chi is suitable for people of all ages. Its slow, gentle movements make it accessible to everyone, regardless of age or physical ability. Tai Chi promotes balance, flexibility, and mental clarity, which are beneficial at any stage of life. Whether you’re a child learning body awareness, an adult seeking stress relief, or a senior looking to improve mobility and prevent falls, Tai Chi can be tailored to your specific needs and goals. It’s an excellent practice that grows with you, making it ideal for people of all ages and fitness levels.

  • You do not need to be fit to start practicing Tai Chi. Tai Chi is a low-impact exercise that can be adapted to your individual fitness level, making it an ideal starting point for those who are new to physical activity or returning to it after a break. The practice emphasizes gentle movements, balance, and breath control, allowing you to gradually improve your strength, flexibility, and overall fitness at your own pace. Tai Chi meets you where you are, so no prior fitness or experience is necessary to begin.

  • When practicing Tai Chi, it’s important to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows for easy movement. Lightweight materials like cotton or other breathable fabrics work best, as they allow your body to stay cool and flexible during the session. Footwear should also be considered; soft-soled shoes or lightweight sneakers are recommended to provide both support and sensitivity to the ground. Some practitioners prefer to practice barefoot or in socks. Ultimately, the goal is to feel comfortable and unrestricted, so you can focus fully on the practice.

  • Yes, Tai Chi can be practiced even if you have pre-existing medical conditions, but it’s important to consult your healthcare provider before starting. Tai Chi’s low-impact, gentle movements make it a safe option for many people with conditions like arthritis, hypertension, or back pain. It can help improve mobility, circulation, and overall wellness without putting excessive strain on the body. However, certain modifications may be necessary depending on your condition, and working with an experienced instructor can help you safely adapt the practice to suit your needs.

  • For the best results, it’s recommended to practice Tai Chi regularly—ideally, a few times a week. Consistency helps you build strength, flexibility, and a deeper mind-body connection over time. Beginners may start with 2-3 sessions per week, gradually increasing frequency as comfort and proficiency grow. Even short, daily sessions can provide great benefits, such as increased relaxation, improved balance, and better mental focus. The key is to integrate Tai Chi into your routine in a way that works for you, fostering steady progress and long-term wellness.