Community Class Registration: Tai Chi and Chinese Calligraphy
Asian Initiatives Community Courses
Asian Initiatives offers non-credit classes to WMU faculty, staff, students and the community, including Tai Chi and Chinese Calligraphy and Self Reflection.
2026 Spring Classes
Tai Chi Basic
- Wednesdays starting Jan. 21.
- A 12-week course
- 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in Sangren Hall 4705
Tai Chi Intermediate
- Thursdays starting Jan. 22
- A 12-week course
- Noon to 1 p.m. in Sangren Hall, 4140
Tai Chi Fan1
- Fridays starting Jan. 23
- A 12-week course
- Noon to 1 p.m. in Sangren Hall, 4705
*Classes with low enrollment may be cancelled.
Chinese Calligraphy and Self-Reflection2
- Thursdays startingJan. 22 for session one and March 19 for session two
- Two 6-week sessions3
- 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in Sangren Hall, 4140
*Classes with low enrollment may be cancelled.
Notes on Registration
1 In addition to the regular tuition, $5 material fee is required for the Tai Chi Fan class. Fan will be provided, but needs to be returned upon the completion of the session.
2 In addition to the regular tuition, $15 material fee is required for the Chinese Calligraphy and Self Reflection class.
3 Session 1: 1/22-3/5. Session 2: 3/19-4/23.
Cost and Payment for Asian Initiatives Community Courses
Fall and Spring Course Cost
Each course costs $120. In addition to regular tuition, some courses may require a material fee.
Summer Course Cost
Each course/session costs $60. In addition to regular tuition, some courses may require a material fee.
Discounts
- 50% tuition discount to WMU students and community senior citizens (55 and above)
- $25/course for WMU employees
- For courses requesting a "Material fee" apart from the tuition cost, all participants must pay this fee in full.
For example, if you are a WMU employee, and you want to take the Chinese Calligraphy class that has a material fee of $15, the total amount you need to pay is $25 + $15 (material fee) = $40. If you are a WMU student or community senior citizen, and you want to take the Chinese Calligraphy class, the total amount you need to pay is $60 (50% discount ) + $15 (Material fee) = $75.
The cost for each class (including any applicable materials fees) must be paid in full on or before the first day of class.
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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 Basic
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.
Prerequisite: 18 and above, able to stand and follow the movements for 1 hour.
Tai Chi Intermediate
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.
Prerequisite: Has taken Tai Chi basic, and received the instructor's reference prior to registering for this class.
Tai Chi Fan
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.
Prerequisite: Has taken Tai Chi basic, or has learned basic Tai Chi within 2 years prior to this class.
Chinese Calligraphy and Self-Reflection
Chinese Calligraphy and Self-Reflection introduces the art and philosophy of traditional Chinese calligraphy to students through a hands-on approach. The goal is not only to teach brush techniques, but also to help participants find inner peace through the process of slowing down, reflecting on personal values, and expressing themselves in a meaningful way.
Accessibility
We are happy to provide reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities. To request accommodation, please contact Asian Initiatives staff at @email at least five business days before the event.