Eight Ways of Tai Chi Chuan™

Experience the essential principles of tai chi through a simple, accessible practice.
The Eight Ways of Tai Chi Chuan™ is a unique sequence developed from movements of the Yang Style Short Form and passed down from Professor Cheng Man-ch’ing through the Tai Chi Foundation lineage. Combining gentle movement with imagery and visualization, the practice offers a direct experience of the core principles that give tai chi its depth and effectiveness.
Students explore five essential principles:

• Centering — moving from the body’s natural center (dantian)
• Vital Energy — cultivating awareness of the generation and circulation of qi
• Softening — releasing unnecessary physical and mental tension
• Stability — developing balance and a strong connection to the ground
• Uprightness — maintaining an aligned, relaxed posture

Suitable for beginners and experienced practitioners alike, the Eight Ways strengthen the legs, improve balance and coordination, and cultivate greater ease, awareness, and presence. The practice can be adapted for a wide range of abilities, making it an excellent introduction to tai chi as well as a valuable complement to an existing practice.

Course Length: 11 weeks, 1 hour/week
Prerequisite: None