Taiji is a martial art, a contemplative practice and a practice of developing your mind. Like playing the piano or some other instrument, the learning of taiji starts with basic movements and exercises. Learning these movements helps the body to learn new ways of moving and to strengthen and make the body flexible.

The learning of the taiji “set” entails learning some separate movements and then putting them together. Each movement has a martial purpose which can be shown but this is not necessary for the student to learn unless they hold an interest in it. The learning of these movements takes practice until the mind and body can do them from memory. Some students find themselves frustrated due to not being able to learn the movements quickly. The practice of taiji also encourages the cultivation of patience and mental focus. With practice and patience then mental focus will come.

As students progress in their practice, the movements become easier and feel more natural to learn. The group process (class) helps to support the student since students are learning together.

As in most eastern traditions, less talking and more doing is encouraged. While questions are entertained by coaches at times, often the students are encouraged to do repetition and most of the time is spent in practicing the physical aspect of the form.

At the Daoguan, taiji students also learn to do sitting meditation. Most classes start with a period of meditation, followed by Daoist stretching exercises and the taiji warm ups. The practice of meditation helps to create a calm mind, and can lead to an understanding of our natures and the connections with others. Ultimately, non separateness arises.

At the Daoguan, once the student becomes more familiar with the taiji form, then you are free to investigate the martial aspects through push hands (tui shou). You are  also free to investigate the use of weapons to calm the mind, and practice taiji. The weapons currently being taught at the Daoguan are cane, fan, pole and sword. Ironically, though this practice is martial, cooperation and not competition is encouraged at the Daoguan. We expect students to be friendly and helpful with each other, which is evident in classes at the school.

We hope this brief explanation helps you understand what to expect at the Daoguan.