Tai Chi Chuan is an ancient Chinese martial art that combines slow, flowing movements, mindful breathing, and focused awareness to promote health, relaxation, and overall well-being.

Tai Chi Chuan is usually translated as “Supreme Ultimate Boxing”:

Tai (太) – supreme, great, or grand

Chi (极 / 極) – ultimate, highest point, or polarity

Chuan (拳) – fist, boxing, or martial art

Valued for its ability to improve both physical and mental health, its graceful, continuous movements encourage the body to move with balance and coordination, while calming and clearing the mind.

Qigong (pronounced Chee-Gong) is not a martial art, but a system of gentle exercises, breathwork, and meditation that originated in the practice of Dao Yin which has records stretching back to 168 BC.

Qi (氣 / 气) – life force, or the body’s vital energy

Gong (功) – skill or art developed through consistent effort

Qigong and Dao Yin principles are the foundation of many traditional Chinese health practices, including martial arts. There are many forms of Qigong all developed to cultivate health, vitality, and mental calm, and are often used in Tai Chi class as supplementary exercises.