Tai Chi and Qi Cong teach us to flow through gentle movements. Based on balance, harmony, and yielding with a goal of becoming more present.
What is Tai Chi and what does it have to do with Art?
Tai Chi and Qi Gong date back thousands of years and are pillars of Chinese Medicine designed to increase wellness throughout the body and mind by cultivating chi (energy). It is a series of gentle movements and breathing that encourages inner peace, clarity, and calmness. No special equipment or skill is needed and everyone can benefit, regardless of age or fitness level.
OK, great but what does that have to do with art?
The practices of Tai Chi and Qi Gong can inspire creativity by:
a) Teaching us to flow. We all know the wonderful feeling of “flow” when we are deeply engaged in our creative pursuits. These practices help us flow more easily.
b) Tai Chi and Qi Gong are based on balance, harmony, yielding, and being adaptable. Definitely assets to our art making!
c) Mindfulness and presence are also core elements. Becoming more “present” and learning to quiet the mind allows the whispers of our creative spirit to speak more loudly.
MAL member Marlene Boas has practiced Tai Chi for many years and recently has been certified as a Tai Chi Easy Practice Leader by the Institute of Integral Qi Gong and Tai Chi.
All class tuition will be donated directly to McMurray Art League.
Maximum class size: 11
Minimum class size: 4
(Register here for the series or register for 9/23. 9/30, 10/7, 10/14, 10/21, and 10/28 sessions separately from the Class Calendar.)
