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Tai Chi & Qigong

Learn the internal martial art that cultivates relaxation, balance & vitality

Tai Chi and Qigong are more than just forms of exercise.

They are ancient practices rooted in the cultivation of your life force.

Both emphasize the importance of relaxation, mindfulness, breath control, and fluid movement, creating a deeper connection with your body, mind, and consciousness.

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“I love Ian!!! He has such a compassionate and helpful way about him, on top of being an amazing teacher. He's calm, informative, and very knowledgeable about the practice. I "liked" tai chi before meeting him, but now it is a love that I am expanding on, all thanks to Ian! ”

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Rhonda - The Human Process Tai Chi Student

The Benefits Are Clear

Research has shown that tai chi, a movement meditation, can benefit those with cardiac/stroke risk, hypertension, Parkinson's disease, osteoarthritis, balance issues, depression, cognitive function, and more chronic or stress-related dis-eases.   It can help regulate your nervous system, improve your immune system, and strengthen your mind-body connection.

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I see students navigate their world with:

  • More relaxation and less fear

  • Better balance and more confidence

  •  A stronger connection to their true selves

  • An appreciation for nature, the elements, and the seasons  

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I Teach Yang-Style
Short Form Tai Chi

I trained with Senior Teachers at the Tai Chi Foundation to learn the Yang Style Short Form of Tai Chi, as taught by Professor Cheng Man-ch'ing, who defied tradition and brought tai chi to the West.  My teachers trained with Patrick Watson, an apprentice of the Professor, and my own training included hundreds of hours of learning, training, and teaching the form in three segments.  This unique approach to teaching gives students a powerfully clear path to embodying the principles of tai chi.  Alongside tai chi, I teach multiple forms of qigong and principles-based meditations.

Tai Chi & Qigong can help you if...

  • You want to improve your balance and physical stability – These gentle movements strengthen your core and coordination, reducing the risk of falls and injury.

  • You’re looking to boost mental clarity and focus – Practicing tai chi and qigong enhances concentration, helping you stay calm and focused.

  • You’d like more effective ways to relax and relieve stress – Mindful breathing and movement activate your body’s relaxation response, allowing you to unwind with ease.

  • You want to build emotional resilience – Regular practice helps improve mood, empowering you to handle challenges with grace.

  • You’d love to sleep better – Releasing tension in both mind and body supports deeper, more restorative rest.

  • You want to support your immune health – These practices stimulate your natural defenses, helping your body maintain health and vitality.

  • You’re seeking increased energy and vitality – You open energy pathways, providing a sense of steady, balanced energy throughout the day.

  • You want a deeper connection to your body – Through mindful movements and breathing, you’ll gain a stronger awareness of yourself, fostering mindfulness and self-compassion.

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“Ian expresses a kind encouragement which promises patience.  It quickly became clear that he has studied the art of Tai Chi devotedly, and I was able to quickly recognize that I had found my teacher.  He has a gentle, soft-spoken disposition which invites trust.  This welcoming disposition and open attitude inspire confidence.  He listens and addresses student doubts and difficulties.  He skillfully addresses concerns or problems directly, but also has a discerning ability and added insight to address the concern or problem at the underlying foundational level producing the doubt or concern.

 

With all these qualities, Ian makes one’s progress smoother and appropriately incremental.  When meeting Ian, it is easy to feel you are in the presence of a skilled and kind person who genuinely wants you to meet your goals, from where you are, and in consideration of what you want.  His demeanor and smile put the welcome mat out every time, and one quickly feels befriended and protected.”

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Sheila B. - Tai Chi Student

Tai Chi & Qigong Classes

In-person & online classes, workshops & retreats

Yang Short Form Tai Chi,
Beginner 3 (Online)

September 18th - November 20th, 2024

Wednesdays, 12PM CT

The Human Process Chicago Tai Chi School

This is for students who have learned the 1st & 2nd segments of the form.  Cultivate a deeper connection to your dantian, your root, & your balance.​

Yang Short Form Tai Chi
Fundamentals (Online)

January - March 2025

Wednesdays, 12PM CT

The Human Process Chicago Tai Chi School

This is for students who have learned entire Yang-style short form.  In 10 weeks, we review the form through the lens of essential principles.​

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The Art of Calm:
Qigong for Stress & Resilience

1-Hour Virtual Retreat

Sunday, December 8th, 12PM ET

The Tai Chi Foundation

Join me in a relaxed space where we explore the science of stress, how it manifests in your body, and use qigong to cultivate inner balance.

The Essence of Relaxation:
An Introduction to Tai Chi & Qigong

Winter 2024

Location TBC

Ericeira, Portugal

For those brand new to tai chi and qigong, this series of classes will help you become aware of your dantian (center), your chi (life force), and your connection to the universe around you - bringing you relaxation and internal balance.

Are you interested in bringing a relaxing tai chi & qigong wellness program to your community? 

Let's talk about your vision & bring it to life.

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