The Brixton and Ivybridge based Tai Chi group, run by John Hamlett, is always happy to welcome new members. I have become a pupil myself and cannot recommend these sessions highly enough. All classes are open to beginners. The session in green is held in the Brixton Community Centre. The sessions in black are held at the 3rd Ivybridge Scout Hut ( next to South Dartmoor Leisure Centre ); times and dates as follows:
Tuesday evenings 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm
Wednesday mornings 9:30 am to 11.00 am
Thursday mornings 9.30 am to 11.00 am
Thursday evenings 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm
You are asked to arrive 10 minutes before the actual start time...
John can be contacted at 01752 894197 ( daytime ) and 07972 846443 ( evenings ) for further details.
Here's some information on Tai Chi for you:
If you want to:
Develop your physical strength, stamina, balance, co-ordination, and agility in a way that will not harm our body;
Acquire tools to help quieten your mind, develop better focus, concentration and awareness;
Take responsibility for maintaining and improving your own health - thinking beyond medication;
Learn how you can use your body more effectively and efficiently; … then Tai Chi will suit you.
What is Tai Ji Quan?
Tai Ji Quan (more commonly known as Tai Chi) is a system of exercises that gently yet powerfully strengthen the body and mind. It is, at the same time, an exercise regime, a martial art, mediation, self development, healthcare, a vehicle for self expression and more.
Who is TJQ suitable for?
Anyone who wishes to improve their health, learn a new tool to help with relaxation and increase their energy levels and vitality. People of all ages and fitness levels practice Tai Ji Quan and the majority feel the benefits within two months of attending classes. There are no special requirements needed to take part in a class, just the desire to learn and to do something positive for oneself.
What are the benefits of practice?
Practitioners generally report an increase in physical fitness, improved balance, flexibility, co-ordination, stamina, mental clarity and concentration. Painful conditions and illness can be overcome and students report benefits for a variety of ailments including: joint & muscle pain and stiffness, depression, M.E., arthritis, poor circulation, migraine, high blood, pressure, fatigue, insomnia, panic attacks. With continued, regular practice, the immune system is strengthened, recovery from illness and injury comes faster and the body and mind become more resilient to stresses placed upon them.
What should I expect?
Each class begins with a set of preparatory exercises which gently bring your body and mind into the relaxed and fluid state needed to perform the Tai Ji Quan forms. The form taught first is the Yang long form, a set of 108 flowing movements that are learnt progressively over several years. The form serves to teach the principles of movement needed to progress in TJQ and these principles will start to permeate into other aspects of your life. The training doesn't stay in the classroom, it becomes part of every day and, with time, its benefits can be felt in everything you do from bending down to pick something up to dealing with challenging or unpleasant situations.
“My Tai Chi classes give me a space in my week to concentrate on my own health and well-being, through exercise and relaxation. Mentally and physically it teaches me to focus on priorities''
M.P. Dec '08
and I have found it tremndously useful in dealing with stress and fatigue!
Graham
