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TAI CHI
Cultivating the Chi is a path of wisdom and love to
ourselves first
Tai Chi is a form of exercise that reflects the importance of the balance of man with nature. Its origin goes back to the 13th century in China where it was developed in the Taoist monasteries and embodies their philosophies. The principle of Tai Chi is harmony, within oneself and with outer forces, harmonizing the physical, mental and spiritual aspects of life. From its origin and over the centuries, Tai Chi was a guarded secret, passed down only from family to family. In the 19th century this great secret was exposed to the masses, quickly becoming the national exercise of China. The Chinese word chi means “life force” or “internal energy”. The way in which chi expresses itself, going always to the nearest position of harmony and balance is called Tai Chi “the grand ultimate”. Tai Chi is not a religion, belief, dogma, following or cult. Tai Chi is a way of life. It is also known as a moving meditation because it is a series of choreographed movements which enhances total awareness and concentration of the energy flow inside the body. This practice develops physical strength and balance, mental concentration and focused attention. While practicing Tai Chi the students gradually relax the mind and become aware of their deeper self. Tai Chi is a discipline that must be done totally with all one’s being in a process where the distinction between mind, body and spirit is lost as they flow into each other and merge in harmony. Hand, foot, breath, balance and concentration blend into each other until the individual disappears into the void that is the Tai Chi. Among the reasons to practice Tai Chi are:
CHI KUNG Chi Kung is an ancient Chinese exercise which includes different methods of practicing movements, stances, breathing and meditation. Chi Kung is core to the foundation of Chinese medicine, Chinese martial arts, and Chinese meditation. The focus of this art is to increase vital energy in the body, lead it with the mind and direct it with intention. It is also instrumental in the prevention and treatment of disease and in holding back the process of aging and extending life. The Chinese word chi means “life force” which essentially means “breath”. Kung means “work” or “cultivation”. Chi Kung literally translated as "breathing exercise”, hence Chi Kung is working with and cultivating the breath of life force. As we become more aware of the effects caused by our environment and daily stress, we also become more conscious of the role of the mind and the emotions on health and the quality of life. As conscious individuals, we see the power of our thoughts, feelings and attitudes, therefore, we see the power we have within ourselves to affect our health. Becoming conscious of our own healing, millions of people practice Chi Kung to:
When the practice of Tai Chi and Chi Kung are combined, profound and positive changes are experienced by the students. In moving the chi or life force through conscious breathing, through meditation and the practice of Tai Chi and Chi Kung, we are able to cultivate the pure chi we have inherited in our body, mind and spirit.
TESTIMONIALS “Taking Tai Chi classes from Mariscela is like spending time at an expensive spa (except the price is better). Just being there is therapeutic. There was never any pressure to perform better. Even so, I did learn a great deal about the philosophy behind Tai Chi, and the need for precision. I will be able to use the short form White Dragon as a moving meditation wherever I go” Barbara Y., Auburn, CA
“I so enjoyed the past several months learning Tai Chi---mostly for the calming affect and balance it brings to busy living. Speaking of balance, I have a very long way to go to improve my literal balance and Tai Chi was the perfect beginning of that journey. Your positive energy and enthusiasm was wonderful to experience at each class.” Sharon W-H, Auburn
"Mariscela Alvarez is a very adept teacher and extremely helpful to beginners. She gave us each individual attention during class and breaks, as to how to use the perfect form and movements doing exercises and Tai Chi. By taking several classes we learned that the slow movements improved our balance. Her DVD of exercise and form has helped us to perfect our movements as we practice. We are very grateful to Mariscela for introducing Tai Chi to us." Jim and Bernette F., Penryn, CA
"I find Tai Chi/Chi Kung a very rewarding method of exercise that affects me on many levels in a positive manner. I was surprised to find that these quiet, calm, meditative movements stimulate parts of my body I didn't realize I had. I like to think it is doing the same for me mentally and spiritually, too!!!" Norma M., Smartville, CA
“I am happy to say that, while going in with sore muscles in left knee area, after six weekly sessions in your class, Mariscela, I have not had any recurrence. The number of different approaches I had tried did not help. I am looking forward to another such experience with a focus on left arm. I have since enjoyed the group experience in other settings too” Dr. Jeanene O, Auburn, CA
“Mariscela is patient, knowledgeable and attuned to her class. She instructs her pupils in the movements with an eye on their abilities, gently leading them through the form in a precise, sensitive manner. As a result, my sense of focus, flexibility and balance have greatly improved. Mariscela is close to a perfect teacher. Her classes Tai Chi and Chi Kung are delightful, the most enjoyable forms of exercise that I have ever experienced” Marcelle C, Grass Valley, CA
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