Bending Tree Tai Chi Kung teaches classes and provides information for Tai Chi, Chi Kung, and Qigong in the Hampton Roads, Virginia area. We invite you to learn more about Tai Chi and Qigong, to see our class offerings and schedule, pre-register for a class, and to review the other information we've provided.
It is our pleasure to offer you the teaching.
Classes - Frequently Asked Questions
Here are listed some common questions that our prospective students ask us. Of course, if your question does not appear here, please contact Jude on the Contact Info Page.
What do I wear?
Wear comfortable, loose clothing. You may practice in appropriate exercise shoes, or in bare feet, or cut-off socks (cut the toes off for grip). Please do not wear perfume, cologne or noisy jewelry.
Should I eat before or after Qigong class?
The Teacher recommends a one-hour fast before and after class.
How long and how often are the classes?
The Tai Chi for Wellness, and Specialty classes are 1½ hours long, and occur once a week. The Tai Chi for Health classes (including Tai Chi for Arthritis and Tai Chi for Diabetes) are 1 hour long. As the classes are progressive (building-block style), practice is helpful between classes. These classes incorporates specific breathing and joint opening exercises, which alone will help improve your flexibility and overall health.
What is the average Qigong student like?
Like you! There is no average. You must be at least 16 to attend a group class. There are students of all generations, races and both sexes in class. Some couples choose to attend together. Many senior citizens enjoy Qigong Tai Chi, and people with disabilities find the class very helpful.
What is it like to attend a Qigong class?
The class will start with a simple preparation exercise that starts our bodies moving and allows us to let go of our day's activities and thoughts. We will progress through several moving exercises that are designed to train the body to breathe deeply and slowly. We will then target specific areas and joints of the body with special exercises that help the body "open up." After reviewing the previous week's lesson and practicing the form steps that we already know, the students will be seated as the next step(s) are demonstrated and discussed. We will then practice the new lesson and connect it to the rest of the form. Questions are always welcome. You will receive educational handouts and get a brief introduction to various health practices in the "wellness moment." Individual attention is given as needed, and humor is always part of our class.
Click here to view a a short segment of the Longevity Tree Form (our regular program). This is not the form taught in the Tai Chi for Recovery program. Please be patient if you are using a phone line Internet connection, it takes 1-2 minutes for the video to start.
May I attend a Qigong class without obligation?
Be our guest at any of my free "Introduction to Tai Chi / Qigong" classes. They are precursors to classes that are opening at that location, day and time. You will hear a short explanation of Qigong, and then participate in the exercises and start to learn the form. If your "wellness voice" says, "Yes, this is for me," then sign up for the set. If it's not for you, you have enjoyed that class free of charge. Be our guest and bring a guest!