Yang Tai Chi is a style of Tai Chi characterized by relaxed, open movements and steady, continuous flow. Practiced slowly, it supports balance, strength, and calm while cultivating awareness of breath and embodied presence.

We teach Yang Yai at this retreat because it is the most foundational and accessible approach to Tai Chi. Its spacious postures and gentle pace make it easy to learn for beginners, while offering depth and refinement for more experienced practitioners.

Unlike smaller or more complex Tai Chi forms, Yang Tai Chi emphasizes simplicity, clarity, and adaptability. This makes it especially well suited to retreat practice, and it is widely taught and practiced around the world as a grounding, lifelong movement art.

Yes. This retreat is suitable for complete beginners as well as experienced practitioners. Movements are taught step-by-step, with clear explanations and personal corrections. No prior Tai Chi experience is required.

Absolutely. Active participants often appreciate Tai Chi as a complementary practice that refines balance, coordination, body awareness, and mental clarity. Many find it deeply restorative while still intellectually and physically engaging.

Yes. The retreat is designed to be gentle, grounding, and non-overstimulating. Tai Chi is practiced at a calm pace, with frequent opportunities to rest. You are encouraged to listen to your body and participate at your own level. Nothing is forced, and the environment is supportive rather than demanding.

No. Tai Chi does not require high fitness levels or flexibility. Movements are low-impact and adaptable, and you’re always encouraged to move at your own pace.

Qigong and Tai Chi are closely related practices, but they differ in structure and emphasis.

Qigong uses simple, often repetitive movements, breathing, and stillness to cultivate energy, relaxation, and health.

Tai Chi integrates these same principles into a continuous, flowing sequence of movements. It also has roots in martial arts, which show up as attention to balance, structure, responsiveness, and efficient use of the body—though in this retreat it is practiced as a mindful, non-combative movement art.

In short: Qigong builds the foundations; Taichi brings them together in flowing, embodied practice.

Yes. Taichi cannot truly be taught without reference to Qigong. Qigong provides the underlying principles of breath, posture, relaxation, and mind–body connection that make Taichi effective and meaningful.

Throughout the retreat, Qigong practices and concepts are woven into the Tai Chi teaching to support awareness, internal connection, and ease of movement. Under the guidance of Jonwin Lee, a Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qigong and TCM principles naturally underpin the Tai Chi practice—complementing it and making the experience whole, grounded, and integrated rather than separate or fragmented.