Community Classes
Asian Initiatives offers non-credit classes to WMU faculty, staff, students and the community.
2025 Summer Classes
TAI CHI
| Class | Day | Starting Date | Sessions | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tai Chi Basic (WMU East Campus) | Wed | May 7 | 6 weeks | 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. | CHHS 4010, WMU East Campus |
| Tai Chi Intermediate | Thu | May 8 | 6 weeks | 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. | CHHS 4010, WMU East Campus |
Why Do We Practice Tai Chi?
Tai Chi is a traditional Chinese martial art originally designed as a unique self-defense technique, which later evolved into an effective health exercise. Characterized by flowing, graceful, and well-balanced movements, Tai Chi strengthens both the body and mind, promoting complete harmony between the two. Through practicing Tai Chi, practitioners integrate the balance of Yin and Yang, the essence of nature, and the art of relaxation into their lives. Suitable for people of all ages, genders, and health conditions, Tai Chi is an ideal form of physical exercise for many.
Tai Chi classes are open to WMU faculty, staff, students and the community (18 and above).
Tai Chi Class Levels
| Level | Prerequisite | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Tai Chi Basic | 18 and above, able to stand and follow the movements for 1 hour. | This course will introduce some essential Tai Chi principles such as controlled relaxation, mental quietness, breathing in depth, intent first etc. The class will practice 8 Trigrams and 5 steps. By the end of the session, students are expected to grasp these essentials and be able to practice basic Tai Chi movements independently. |
| Tai Chi Intermediate | Has taken Tai Chi basic, and received the instructor's reference prior to registering for this class. | This class will introduce and teach Cheng Man Ching 37 Form (CMC 37). CMC 37 was developed by Professor Cheng Man Ching. Regarded as the “Master of Five Excellences”, Cheng excelled in Poetry, calligraphy, painting, medicine, and Tai Chi. Originated from Yang Cheng Pu style, CMC 37 incorporated Cheng’s personal understanding derived from years of practice. |
| Tai Chi Seminar | Has completed Tai Chi Intermediate and obtained the instructor's reference. | This class aims to fine tune Tai Chi skills. By exploring the details and applications of CMC37, practicing the Eight Techniques, and engaging in partner exercises like pushing hands, participants will not only find enjoyment but also gain a deeper understanding of Tai Chi. The class also emphasizes the practice of internal principles to achieve the integration of mind, intent and energy. |
| Tai Chi Fan | Has taken Tai Chi basic, or has learned basic Tai Chi within 2 years prior to this class. | The class will be engaging in the practice of the Chen Style 24 Form Tai Chi Fan. Tai Chi Fan presents a captivating dimension of Tai Chi that seamlessly blends martial arts techniques with the elegant motions of the fan. It offers an unique way to simultaneously train the body and nurture the mind. |
| Tai Chi Sword | Has 2 years of recent experience practicing Tai Chi and pass the instructor's evaluation | The class will be engaging in the practice of the Chen Style Tai Chi Sword. |
| Seated Tai Chi | None | This course will introduce some essential Tai Chi principles such as controlled relaxation, mental quietness, breathing in depth, intent first etc. The class will practice Qigong Baduanjin and 12 Form Seated Tai Chi. By the end of the session, students are expected to grasp these essentials and be able to practice basic Tai Chi movements independently. |