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What to Expect at a Tai Chi & Qigong Class
If you’ve never taken a Tai Chi or Qigong class before, you may wonder what to expect.
The good news is that you don’t need to know anything before you arrive.
A typical Silver Lotus class has a gentle, steady rhythm. We begin by settling in, spend time warming up and exploring movement, practice Tai Chi or Qigong forms, and finish by bringing the class to a comfortable close.
Come as you are. We’ll meet you where you are.
Arriving & Settling In
We begin with a warm welcome and a few moments to settle in.
This is a chance to greet one another, leave some of the day’s distractions behind, and bring our attention to the practice.
There is no need to rush. The practice begins with simply being present.
Warm-Ups & Qigong
We usually begin with gentle warm-up movements and/or Qigong exercises.
These may include simple movements, breathing, and stretches that help us become more aware of our bodies and prepare for the practice ahead.
Movements can be adapted when needed, and students are always encouraged to work at a comfortable pace.
Learning & Practicing Forms
The heart of many of our classes is learning and practicing Tai Chi and Qigong forms.
Learning these arts takes time. We don’t expect you to remember everything the first time—or even the tenth time!
Our instructors break movements into manageable steps and provide plenty of opportunities to practice and repeat.
And please ask questions. Questions are always welcome and are an important part of learning.
Most of all, give yourself time to simply experience the movement. There is no need to get everything “right.” With practice, understanding develops naturally.
What Should I Wear?
There is no special clothing required for class.
Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely. Comfortable, supportive shoes are generally a good choice, although your instructor may have specific recommendations depending on the class or location.
Most importantly, wear something that allows you to relax and enjoy your practice.
Do I Need to Bring Anything?
Usually, you only need to bring yourself and a willingness to learn.
A bottle of water is always a good idea. Your instructor will let you know if anything additional is needed for a particular class.
What If I Have Physical Limitations?
Tai Chi and Qigong can often be adapted to meet a variety of needs and abilities. Some movements may be modified, and many practices can be done seated when appropriate.
Please talk with your instructor about any concerns or limitations that may affect your participation so that together you can find an approach that works comfortably for you.
And Remember...
Everyone was a beginner once.
You do not need to be flexible, coordinated, or already “good at” Tai Chi or Qigong to begin.
Come with curiosity. Ask questions. Give yourself permission to learn at your own pace.
We look forward to practicing with you.