Silkreeler

Instructor Laura Carmichael

For more information contact Laura Carmichael at (20) 685 1070 LauraCarmichael@yahoo.com

ABOUT CHEN STYLE TAIJI

Chen style is the oldest of the five major styles of Taijiquan. Taiji is a martial art, derived 20 generations ago in China, and is known for its positive benefits for life, mental acuity, health and discipline based on Taoist principles. Its combination of fast and slow, and soft and hard movements set it apart from other schools of Taijiquan.

Chen style taiji has a long tradition, and though it tends to be less known in the West, it is a very rich and energetic form with solid and safe methods for practice. In addition to its health benefits, such as improved immunity, circulation and flexibility, this practice of cultivated awareness has many practical applications, including developing ease while performing or speaking, energized public presence, reduction of stage fright, a wider scope of concentration, and improved comfort while working long hours. Many students of taiji experience increased energy levels and decreased tension, and over time an improved mental outlook.

While the beginning student of taiji is mainly concerned with learning the external forms, qi gong will lead to coordination of external and internal movements, intake and exhalation of breath, and harmony of energies. A student develops a solid "root," or ability to stand firmly, yet without excess tension. Awareness and directed intention are essential aspects of taiji.

ABOUT THE CLASS

My emphasis is on relaxation and a traditional foundation copied as closely as possible from my teacher Master Zhang XueXin, 19th generation Chen Master, a senior student of Feng Zhi Qiang. I hope to give students a practical introduction to our style and flavor of taiji, in a non-competitve atmosphere where ease in the body, coordination and self awareness can be cultivated. Martial applications inform the forms and exercises, which are calm and beautiful and very good for health. These exercises can be done by almost anyone, and are adaptable for any level of experience. Exercises can be practiced easily outside of class, and begin a base for further advancement.

Other elements which will be addressed are balance, using the mind to direct the body/self, being quiet and "listening inside" the body, release of excess tension, mental concentration and awareness, the flow of qi (chi), and the development of strength. There will be an emphasis on correct movement and intention, coordination, mental attitude, and the internal flow of energy within the external movement.

My teaching of taiji is also informed by Alexander Technique and its concern for freedom of movement and well-being. Using my varied background, I assist students with problems and offer practical corrections. I strive to create a calm yet alert class environment where students are self- empowered through the art of taiji.

Other examples of class elements are: training whole body movement and power, using abdominal and low back muscles to initiate movement, develop the idiomatic spiraling and twining energy, develop the fundamental concepts of opening and closing and chest stomach folding exercises, relieve stiffness as all major joints in the body are released and opened, basics of self-care using accu-pressure points.

Instructor Laura Carmichael is an American student of Master Zhang XueXin, 19th generation Chen Master, a senior student of Feng Zhi Qiang, one of the great living teachers of Chen style taiji today. Ms. Carmichael began studies with Zhang Xue Xin in 1995 in San Francisco, CA. She now brings Master Zhang's taiji to Amsterdam under his approval. Ms. Carmichael has spent more than ten years working with body awareness and movement, including extended studies of the Alexander Technique with John Baron. She is also a professional classical musician and teacher. In addition to emphasizing the martial and health aspects of taiji, she specializes in working with musicians and performers, and with individuals recovering from injuries and chronic pain, having herself recovered from severe spinal injuries resulting from an automobile accident.

Please refer to www.silkreeler.com for more information about the school and her lineage.

For information about Alexander Technique http://www.alexandertechnique.com