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Tips on basic stances in taiji

Sifu Leo Ming shares some of the common mistakes in tai chi stances and his tips to correct them. For more information on online Tai Chi Classes broadcast from Johannesburg during lockdown, contact Sifu Leo Ming on 0833780468.

Retreating back to the present moment

By Brenda Ryan, Student of tai chi Retreat (N) ‘An act of moving back or withdrawing’ is what one typically does when wanting to escape… and who among us can say we don’t want or need to escape from time to time? This past weekend afforded a group of students just such an opportunity. I was fortunate enough to secure a place on the Taiji Retreat with Sifu Leo Ming held in the beautiful, tranquil setting of Melody Hills in… Read More »Retreating back to the present moment

The Wealth of Taijiquan

Tai chi may have very early roots in China, yet it has and still is spreading in popularity all over the world.  This is due to the many benefits it provides. Here is a short clip that explains taijiquan and it’s wealth that we can enjoy.  It also has some interesting footage of Chen village– where we recently visited on our tour to China. The video covers: What is the link between Wújí  and taijí?  And tai chi and ying… Read More »The Wealth of Taijiquan

Push Hands in Tai Chi

What is Push Hands? There are various methods and techniques of push hands.  The main purpose of push hands is as a sensitivity taiji drill whereby two people connect by ‘push’ and by ‘yield’, using their hands.  The exercise is aimed to be done in a harmonious way. Benefits of Push Hands Initially one does this drill for developing physical balance and strength. It also improves the subtler internal aspects of co-ordination, timing, sensitivity, reflexes, groundedness and leverage. As you… Read More »Push Hands in Tai Chi

Beijing

On our field trip to China in April 2018, we spent some time exploring Beijing. This is a bustling city, with its 30 million residents and many cars and scooters.  A prominent feature was the domino-like apartments that continue for miles across the city. Another striking aspect was one of the forms of transport – there are bicycles which can be unlocked via an app from your cell phone.  You can then hop on the bike, cycle to your destination,… Read More »Beijing

October 2017 Tai Chi Retreat near Johannesburg

A time of reflection, of going within, of practicing our art of taiji, of restoring our minds and bodies, a time of laughter and friendship and so much more was had at this Octobers Tai Chi Retreat. Melody hill welcomed us, and fed us with nourishing and o-so-yummy vegetarian food, and kept us warm around a fire at night. The setting has become our favourite, as the green grass under the walnut trees is a soothing and invigorating space for… Read More »October 2017 Tai Chi Retreat near Johannesburg

Cape Town Wellness taiji workshop with Sifu Leo

Sifu Leo spent a few days in the mother city, Cape Town, running corporate Wellness workshops, about the many beneficial aspects of tai chi for stress relief, and to bring the concept of flow into work, and teach some self-defense techniques.   Here are a few clips sharing some of the points covered: For more info on workshops for your team building or wellness days, contact your Sifu, Leo Low Ming, on 0833780468.

Racewalking and Tai Chi

“Taiji has enriched my life and improved my resilience immensely. I am grateful to Leo for all the help and guidance he has given me” shares Barbara Nell, a World Champion Racewalker. Barbara has been racewalking for over 25 years, and covered a distance of some 50 000 km’s during this time. She trains on both road and track, and has worked with many coaches over the years – each contributing in their way her preparation and technique. This had… Read More »Racewalking and Tai Chi

How tai chi helps overcome stress and trauma

One of tai chi’s benefits is helping us overcome stress and traumatic ordeals. It is a movement practice that can allow us to feel centered and calm. Benefits of Group Tai Chi Tai chi can be done with a group or individually and is often taught in groups with others. The group energy helps us to compose ourselves. Practicing taiji with others brings a unity and togetherness which is experienced both individually and as a collective. Dr. Bessel van der Kolk,… Read More »How tai chi helps overcome stress and trauma

Learning Tai Chi in water

By Leo Ming I love water and its intrinsic value to life. I am a ‘fish’. Many years ago, while I was swimming, I thought I would try some taiji in the pool. Suddenly it dawned on me that the principles of taiji, through the movement under water, can be transferred and combined into being one with this element. Weightlessness and Weight A person would gain valuable insight into weightlessness but at the same time learn about how we need… Read More »Learning Tai Chi in water