Mei Quan Academy - Dublin, Portobello

Mei Quan Academy of Tai Chi has developed a highly effective beginners course that enables the student to learn the basic elements of Tai Chi (also written as Taiji or Taijiquan). The course has proven successful in helping beginners to overcome any anxiety or particular difficulties they might have. Classes entail a mix of warm-up and conditioning exercises, Tai Chi Form, Qigong, and partner work. The Tai Chi forms are sequences of flowing movements, generally lasting between five and twenty minutes. Students first learn the Beijing 24-Step Short Form. This highly enjoyable form is the basis of the beginners’ course, providing a strong foundation for learning the full Long Form in later classes. Our students learn a variety of easy but highly effective Qigong exercises, primarily from the famous Eight Pieces of Silk Brocade sequence and 28-Step Qigong set, as well as Standing Stake meditation, which all contribute to improving health and developing awareness of the body’s energy. We also use, in combination, three very simple and highly enjoyable partner exercises, Sticking, Yielding, and Centring, to develop balance, co-ordination, spacial awareness and sensitivity. Warm-up and conditioning, basic stepping exercises, including Tai Chi Walking, and the basics of stance and body mechanics, complete the overall picture to give a well-rounded and satisfying introduction to Tai Chi. Students studying with Mei Quan Academy can progress their training through workshops and other classes.