Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Below are some of the questions I am frequently asked by both new and continuing students. If you have a question that is not answered here, please forward that question to jhall@jingweitaichi.com Questions that are not answered here or asked regularly will be added to this list
What are the benefits of regular Tai Chi Qi Gong practice?
How much should I practice Tai Chi Qi Gong?
When should I practice Tai Chi Qi Gong?
Where can I practice Tai Chi Qi Gong?
Should I practice alone or in a group?
How can I improve my practice?
Are there any books that can help me with my practice?
Are there any DVDs or videotapes that can help me with my practice?
Is there any relaxing music that I can play while I practice?
I have recently injured myself, how can I continue with my practice?
I am ill with a common cold or flu, how can I continue with my practice while I am ill?
I have recently been ill with a common cold or flu, how can I continue with my practice?
I have a severe physical disability, how can I practice Tai Chi Qi Gong?
Are there any benefits of practicing Tai Chi Qi Gong as a senior?
What are the benefits of regular Tai Chi Qi Gong practice?
In addition to anecdotal evidence, there is now much published research on the benefits of regular Tai Chi Qi Gong practice. Documented evidence shows that there are benefits to cardiovascular health, aerobic fitness, balance and coordination, and in promoting stress management. Specific programs have been developed for children, seniors, diabetics, and arthritis sufferers.
How much should I practice Tai Chi Qi Gong?
Ideally, students of Tai Chi Qi Gong should practice each day. This may not be practical for some, but as with many health activities, once a schedule is constructed individuals bring that in as part of their daily life and health routines. Daily practice can energize the individual while producing calming effects that persist throughout the remainder of the day.
When should I practice Tai Chi Qi Gong?
Early morning, close to sunrise time at your location or evening, close to sunset time are considered to be the most effective times to practice. With our busy lives, I suggest that you aim to practice at one of these times but if you cannot on a specific day, then practice when you can, when you can enjoy your Tai Chi Qi Gong time.
Where can I practice Tai Chi Qi Gong?
It is tempting to say you can practice anywhere! Ideally, you want to practice somewhere that you can be left undisturbed during the time you choose. A room at home or at the local gymnasium, a conference room at work or the hotel you are staying at, or maybe a quiet area outside on grass. Depending on what you are practicing, then the area you require can be minimal. Simple Qi Gong practice requires very little area.
Should I practice alone or in a group?
This decision is very individual. Many people practice in groups at a club or gymnasium once or twice a week, then take what they have practiced in that group and experiment with their practice alone between classes. This is a method that I encourage students to use. Group sessions will allow individuals to view how others and their instructor practice, offering a chance for corrections and learning of new forms. Practicing alone during the week helps maintain and build upon skill levels.
How can I improve my practice?
Regular practice is the way. Be patient with yourself and others, improvements in your practice of forms will come as you develop. Remember the words of one Tai Chi master when asked to bestow upon his students his highest wisdom, “gradual, very gradual.” And so we progress.
Are there any books that can help me with my practice?
There are many books on the subjects of Tai Chi Qi Gong. For the beginner, searches for text may seem overwhelming. The prime concept to remember is practice regularly, nothing can replace this. A few books that I recommend can be found listed here.
Are there any DVDs or videotapes that can help me with my practice?
DVDs and videotapes are great additional support for assisting you with your practice. There are many available now, with the quality and content varying in both quality and price. Ask an instructor for assistance before you purchase and if possible loan a copy first from that person or your local library. Some recommended DVDs for viewing can be found here. Please be aware that many of these recommendations are based on the Chen Style Tai Chi.
Is there any relaxing music that I can play while I practice?
Music can assist us in relaxing and focusing on our practice, especially with breathing and the meditative aspects of Tai Chi Qi Gong. Music is not suitable for all of us, nor is it always practical to have playing. I suggest that before you purchase, listen to the CD or tape in store, then decide whether to purchase there or online. Some recommendations from music I have used can be found here.
I have recently injured myself, how can I continue with my practice?
Very carefully! Consult your physician or physical therapist. If in doubt, rest and recover. Come back to your practice gradually to refrain from causing further injury or lengthening the recovery process. The simple breathing exercises of Qi Gong practice can be energizing and assist with the discomfort or frustration of an injury.
I am ill with a common cold or flu, how can I continue with my practice while I am ill?
I would suggest extreme caution. If you are ill and attempting to continue with practice you may not only experience discomfort, you may exaggerate the illness. The energy you generate and store may enhance the illness, not promote recovery. I would suggest the simple breathing exercises of Qi Gong practice be introduced as you begin to recover. This may then energize you and assist with the frustration of lack of exercise and regular practice. Introduce more active practice gradually over the following week.
I have a severe physical disability, how can I practice Tai Chi Qi Gong?
Much of Tai Chi Qi Gong can be adapted and practiced by those with physical disabilities. Upper and lower body practice can become the focus of external work while the breathing and meditative aspects of regular practice can benefit the emotional and spiritual wellbeing. For assistance with Tai Chi Qi Gong for those with physical disabilities please contact: jhall@jingweitaichi.com or by calling: 928-214-8309.
Are there any benefits of practicing Tai Chi Qi Gong as a senior?
Much research, both privately and government funded, has now been conducted on the benefits of Tai Chi Qi Gong practice for seniors. Balance and coordination skills have seen to be maintained or enhanced along with management of illness and disability. Practicing as a group, whether at a local senior community, community center, hospice or hospital, or local health club or gymnasium, promotes social contact and interaction that enhances living in the senior years. Specific difficulties with Parkinson's or Alzheimer's type illnesses, diabetes management and arthritis can be addressed and benefit from regular practice.
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Contact Information
- Tel: 928-214-8309
- Email: jhall@jingweitaichi.com
- Web: http://jingweitaichi.com