T'ai Chi Ch'uan is literally translated as "supreme ultimate boxing".The "supreme ultimate" part refers to the Chinese concept of the origin of the universe.Out of the infinite potential of the void arises the dual principles of yin and yang.Yang being the male, warm, forceful, light principle, and Yin being the female, cool, yielding, dark principle.Neither one of these principles is superior to the other, and both are necessary because each contains some of the other.They are two sides of the same coin.The yin-yang symbol is also symbol of T'ai Chi. T'ai Chi Ch'uan is a harmonious dance of yin and yang sometimes referred to as “meditation in motion”.
T’ai Chi was originally practiced as a martial art emphasizing strength and speed.Through time it has evolved into a gentle form of exercise that can be practiced by people of all ages.It consists of a sequence of movements that are performed slowly, softly and gracefully with smooth, even transitions.
"Snake Creeps Down"
Benefits
In Chinese philosophy and traditional medicine there exists the concept of'chi' (chee), a vital force that animates the body. The Japanese word for this is 'ki' (key) and in Yoga this energy is called ‘Prana’.T’ai Chi practice encourages the circulation of chi within the body, improving health and vitality. Chi moves through the body in patterns that are closely related to the nervous and vascular systems.
T’ai Chi practice promotes a tranquil and focused mind. Breathing is coordinated with movement and the meditative nature of the exercises is calming and relaxing. Correct practice can lead to improved balance, strength, coordination, flexibility and fluidity of movement. Many practitioners notice improvement in posture and alignment.
Laura Kolinski-Schultz has studied martial arts since 1974. She began her journey with Isshin-ryu, an Okinawan style of Karate, and holds a 4th degree black belt in that style. A desire to explore the internal styles led her to T'ai Chi in the early '80's. She has studied Chinese Martial Arts with Master David Schenk of the Center for Body-Mind Harmony in Tallmadge, Ohio since 1990. Laura is a Disciple of Master Schenk and is certified to teach T'ai Chi, Qi Gong, Push Hands, and all Internal Martial Arts and related exercises. Laura teaches T'ai Chi at the Canton Museum of Art and at The Yoga place in North Canton.
David Kolinski-Schultz performing with Ba Gua Deer Horn Knives. David began his study of Chinese Martial Arts with Master David Schenk in 1992. He has earned 10 gold and 6 silver medals in local and regional tournaments in T'ai Chi, T'ai Chi Sword, and Ba Gua. He is a Disciple of Master Schenk and is certified to teach T'ai Chi, Qi Gong, Push Hands, and all Internal Martial Arts and related exercises. David was one of the first teachers to be certified by Master Schenk. He teaches at the Canton Museum of Art with Laura.
Instruction
Ongoing T'ai Chi classes are offered at The Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Ave. N., Canton, Ohio 44702. Six week class sessions begin on the following dates: Wednesday, 7:00 - 8:30 pm: April 30 and June 18, 2008. Saturday, 11:00 am - 12:30 pm: May 3, June 21, 2008. Members and Non-Members: $55, two members of the same family: $100. If you sign up to attend both Sat. and Weds. classes, the second class is: $45 for an individual, $80 for two members of the same family. Call 330.453.7666 to Register. Check out the Museum's website: http://www.cantonart.org.
New!T’ai Chi is now at The Yoga Place!
Classes in T'ai Chi are now being offered atThe Yoga Place, 6990 Whipple NW, North Canton, Ohio 44720. Class meets on Tuesdays from 3:45 - 5:00 pm. The next 6-week session of classes begins May 20, 2008. Class fee is $55 payable to Laura Kolinski-Schultz and is due at the time of registration. Class size is limited, so please register soon to hold your place. Wear loose, comfortable clothes, like a t-shirt and sweat pants. Soft, flexible, clean, white, INDOOR ONLY shoes are required for this class. Bring a bottle of water to drink, and notebook and pen to take notes.
For more information, or to register for classes, call 330.324.9319, or email us at laura@terraki-teaware.com. Check out the Yoga Place website athttp://www.theyogaplaceohio.com.
