Family Tai Chi Classes May 9, 2009

Saturday, May 9
1:00—2:00 p.m. Family Tai Chi Classes
Celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

Bring the entire family out to learn tai chi on the grounds of the Historical Society of Washington, D.C. The ancient art of tai chi is a style of kung fu that emphasizes internal energy. The movements are slow and easy and able to be performed by anyone regardless of physical condition or age. The Chinese term taijiquan literally means "supreme ultimate fist."

At the height of its development around 1644 C.E., tai chi was a fast martial art that also valued slow movements meant to expand the mind and focus the body's energy. When the Qing Dynasty Manchurian emperor saw the health and vitality of tai chi masters, he demanded he be taught tai chi. Refusal to teach the emperor would mean death, so the tai chi masters decided to teach him the slow, flowing movements rather than the fast martial art aspect of tai chi. The Manchus, now believing that they had learned tai chi, began to practice it on a large scale. The Chinese, on the whole not knowing tai chi, saw their new leaders practicing tai chi and began to practice it themselves. This is how the slow flowing movements that are internationally recognized as tai chi came into practice.

Free lessons are provided by the Wong People Kung Fu Association, which is directed by Raymond Wong and has been in Washington D.C. since 1985. This is one of the few groups left in the world that is preserving the noncommercial form of kung fu and tai chi. Wear lose clothing and comfortable shoes. Class will be held outside, weather permitting; otherwise, it will be held inside HSW. No RSVP required. (Suitable for all ages) FREE