Go With The Flow

Use the ancient art of tai chi to reduce stress, improve balance and center energy.

You’ve probably seen them in the park— people practicing flowing motions or holding delicate poses—and chances are you never guessed that what they’re doing started as a fi ghting form.

As the story goes, about 2,000 years ago, a Taoist priest saw a crane attacking a snake and mimicked the motions.

The martial art’s focus on flexibility and balance was emphasized as tai chi became a sort of meditation in motion practiced by one person, instead of two facing off. The benefi ts include improved posture and circulation, as well as relaxation.

All you need is someone to show you the basics, and you’re all set to head out to the park and practice.

MILWAUKEE
T’ai Chi Ch’uan Center of Milwaukee
733 E. Locust St. 414-453-9901
www.taichicenter.org

The T’ai Chi Ch’uan Center of Milwaukee was started in 1974 and has been operating as a nonprofi t educational center since its inception. A class on the basic form usually runs for six months of weekly sessions. It costs $280 for regular adult tuition. The school offers a reduced rate for a second family member, seniors and kids younger than 16.

PHOENIX
Tai Chi Chuan Academy
318 N. Fifth Ave. 602-254-8576
www.taichichuanacademy.com

Owner David Block, who has taught tai chi since 1978, has studied and practiced in China, Hong Kong and Australia. Classes cost $60 a month. The school also holds open practice—that anyone can attend for free—on Saturdays at Coronado Park.

WASHINGTON, D.C.
Great River Taoist Center
1325 18th St. N.W. 703-846-8222
www.grtc.org

Beginners classes—which are $79 a month, whether you go once or twice a week—will teach you the form, help you understand body mechanics, and improve your balance, concentration, leg strength and flexibility. Intermediate and advanced classes focus on three areas: polishing, martial applications and breathing.