TEACHING IN ACTION
Teaching can take the form of classes, courses and retreats- What is the difference?
If you have questions or you want to experience the practices before joining a course or retreat, look for classes or introductory workshops or contact Cheng Ya (the teacher) directly
WEEKLY GROUP -OR INDIVIDUALLY- TAILORED CLASSES
The class (whether it is Qi Gong or Tai Ji) is a space where you offer yourself the time to practice with a teacher that guides and corrects your posture, movements, breathing, rythm, etc. The learning curve may seem more gradual, however, they are the best option to become proficient and for you to feel the benefits of practicing often, especially for Tai Ji (learning the form takes some time). Studying theory during classes is limited. If you want to take your practice a step further, it is recommended to complement the weekly classes with the intensive courses or individual/group classes.
Qi Gong
We learn exercises that comprise different Qi Gong series, the method to practice them properly and basic meditation guidelines. Classes are different every time, I tailor them according to what I feel the group needs, making sure that those that come often can deepen in their practice refining certain movements each time. We always start and finish the class practicing sitting meditation. Classes are between 1hr to 1hr and 30 min long.
Tai Ji
We use a reasonable time warming up, doing tonifying and stretching movements just like in the Five Immortals Temple- these movements are the basis of Kung Fu training in Wudang, known as Ji Ben Gong (XXX). Once our body is warm, our Qi is circulating more vigorously and our posture feels more natural, we practice the movements of the Water Style Heavenly Horse Tai Ji form of Wudang (Tian Ma Wudang Tai Ji Quan form), and begin to give it shape. Depending on time and the group the practice of Tai Ji is stronger (power Tai Ji) or softer (light Tai Ji), we usually practice Qi Gong and meditation during class. Classes are between 1hr to 1hr and 30 min long.
INTENSIVE COURSES
Qi Gong and Daoist meditation
During the intensive courses we learn the Qi Gong exercises and their implementation method, directions are more detailed, more context and theory are offered, such as introduction to Daoism, Yin-Yang theory, Traditional Chinese Medicine foundation and basic notions of internal alchemy. During the Qi Gong intensive courses we learn the pillars of meditation and the Daoist meditation method to cultivate stillness, which is a practice on its own that complements and strengthens the practice of Qi Gong. Courses are held in spaces with natural surroundings that invite instrospection, reconnection and peace.
RETREATS
During the retreats the rythm is more disciplined, offering more structure, physical and mental order, as well as the necessary space for instrospection and reconnection with oneself. You also have the opportunity to learn by sharing with like-minded people practicing and going through the same process with you. Retreats are held in spaces with natural surroundings that inspire peace.
Qi Gong and Daoist meditation
Retreats include the same content as the intensive courses but the practice is more profound and guidance and instruction is more personal. There is more opportunity to learn more movements and to refine each movement more than during the intensive courses.
Tai Ji (plus Qi Gong and Daoist meditation)
During the Tai Ji retreats I offer the same instruction as in classes but training much more intensively. We also study theory (Daoism, Yin and Yang, Tai Ji and Traditional Chinese Medicine foundations) and practice Qi Gong and meditation. The purpose of the retreat is for the student to feel the Tai Ji practice deeply (stances, posture, breathing, strenght), and to learn the entire Water Style Heavenly Horse Tai Ji form of Wudang (Tian Ma Wudang Tai Ji Quan form). The retreat's pace is usually arduous yet enjoyable. The structure of the retreat may vary substantially according to the group's needs.