SEMINAR/WORKSHOP PROGRAM

This Taijiquan seminar is designed for those who are interested in learning Taijiquan for health, longevity, and vitality, as well as for martial artists who want to explore the martial roots of the practice.

For practitioners who are interested in just learning Tai Chi, you will learn the basic movements of Yang Style Taiji Long Form (either Part 1, 2, or 3). More importantly, you will also receive a foundation in Taiji Qigong and theory, which is essential for deeper understanding of the art and healing.

For martial arts enthusiasts, martial applications and power generation and emission (Fa Jin) in the Yang Long Form will also be covered. The Yang-style Taiji form is one of the very few traditional styles which still carries the martial essence of the art.

TAI CHI LEVEL 1
The first part of the traditional Yang Style form (22 forms), basic concepts of body alignment, breathing patterns and training of Taiji Qigong will be discussed and practiced.

TAI CHI LEVEL 2
The second part of the form (40 movements) will be analyzed and practiced. Also, a deeper training in Taiji Qigong is included as topic.

TAI CHI LEVEL 3
The third part of the form will be taught (51 movements). In addition, Embryo Breathing theory and technique will be discussed and the martial applications of the second part will be analyzed.

For in-depth explorations into martial applications, Taiji Chin Na and Taiji Wrestling will be offered. Chin Na and Wrestling are two of the four main categories of Chinese Kung Fu (kicking, punching, wrestling, and Chin Na). Kicking/punching techniques can be found in the Yang Long Form sequence. Typically speaking, Wrestling defends against kicking/punching, while Chin Na defends against Wrestling, and kicking/punching defend against Chin Na. All four categories of fighting form a complete cycle.

TAIJI CHIN NA AND TAIJI WRESTLING
Chin Na means to "seize and control", meaning Chin Na allows a martial artist to control opponent's joints, tendons, and cavities. Chin Na was specially designed to defend against anyone who grabs or touches you. Since Taijiquan is a short range fighting style, Chin Na naturally has a close relation to Taijiquan combat, where a lot of contact can be expected from Pushing Hands situations. Many Chin Na techniques will be taught in this seminars and these techniques can be applied to any other martial arts style or system.

Wrestling was designed to defend against punching and kicking. Since Taijiquan is a short range fighting style, there are many common, known, and/or derived wrestling techniques that exist today. In this seminar, many of these techniques will be revealed, discussed, and practiced. These skills can be used for any other Chinese or non-Chinese martial arts style or system.

WHO'S TEACHING?

Dr. Yang, Jwing Ming will be leading the seminar exercises and discussion with the help of various YMAA Boston Instructors.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

This seminar is open to everybody from young to senior. No martial arts experience is required at all. Attendance is limited so register soon. This seminar will benefit:

• Everyone interested in relaxation, movement-breathing coordination and rooting exercises.
• Senior people interested in soft low-impact exercise program.
• Martial artists of all styles who would like to learn a soft style to complement their system or styles.
• All YMAA students who would like to refine their Taiji techniques.
• All interested in graduating and becoming a Qualified YMAA Instructor of Taijiquan.
• Martial artists looking for in-depth instruction and exploration of martial applications in Taijiquan, Taiji Chin Na, and Taiji Wrestling.

WHAT SHOULD I BRING?

There are no special requirements for this Taiji seminar. We recommend using loose practice clothing (t-shirt and pants) and a pair of indoor shoes unless you prefer working in bare feet.

TRAVELING TO BOSTON

YMAA Boston is located approximately 20 minutes South of downtown Boston. If you are traveling by car please visit YMAA Boston webpage for detailed driving instructions.

Free on-street parking is available and there are several paid lots nearby.

Another good alternative is to use the MBTA subway transportation system. YMAA Boston is about 3 minutes walk from the Forrest Hill Orange line terminal. Visit MBTA website for more information.

If you are flying to Boston, a good way to get to YMAA is to use the MBTA subway system. After arriving to Boston’s Logan Airport take the free airport shuttle bus (Route #22, #33 or #55) to the “Airport” station, then take the inbound Blue line train to “State” station. At “State” station board the Orange line outbound train to “Forrest Hills” station. At the “Forrest Hills” station go upstairs and proceed straight through the exit terminal, once outside and at the top of the landing, turn right proceed downstairs, walk to the intersection, cross the street and walk 2 blocks to YMAA Boston.

STAYING IN BOSTON

For information about Hotel, Guest House and Inn lodging. Please visit the lodging page.

EXTRA INFO

If you need help making a decision about attending, have further questions about the Taijiquan seminar or would like to register now please contact us here or call (617) 524-8892 (for international calls please use +1-617-524-8892).

Taijiquan training books and DVDs are available for purchase on site.

Private lessons for advanced levels of Taijiquan can be arranged.