Tai Chi Minneapolis

New Beginner Winter Classes Monday January 16th, 2012

2012-01-03T21:28:00.000-08:00

Grand Long Form Tai Chi and Qigong Class

Monday Evenings 6:30 - 8:00 PM

Begins January 16, 2012

Location: for Minneapolis Classes

Tilopa Tai Chi Qigong Center

Lynnhurst Church

4501 Colfax Avenue South

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Enter on Colfax Avenue (South Wing)

Our Quarter System is based on 12 week sessions of time. Quarters are on a continuum.

Please Email or call us at (612) 825- 6824 for rates and or any questions you might have.

For More Information regarding Tilopa Tai Chi Qigong Center

Please go to www.itaichi.net

2011-08-07T15:53:00.001-07:00

MN TAI CHI CLASS

2011-05-20T16:25:00.001-07:00

Tai Chi Chuan Grand Long Form & Qigong Classes

in Minneapolis, MN

Course Description: This class is a complete training program in the Internal Arts.

This Class Meets Throughout the Year from your beginning Quarter 1.
Tuition Payments are made Quarterly.
Students Advance and receive personal guidance in a Study Group Format.

This style and program are not taught anywhere else in this region.
These specialized Tai Chi Classes have depth and fluidity.
You will learn an authentic Tai Chi Chuan Grand Long Form and Qigong from the
first lineage Chen family.

Our focus is on the deeper healing and classical meditative arts of Tai Chi Chuan and Qigong. Taoist philosophies, breathing techniques, energy balancing, and meridian pathways are always taught as an integral part of our classes. It is the Goal of Our Program to provide a rich and unique learning opportunity for those who wish a thorough understanding and mastery of this art. Our instruction honors individual needs and learning methods.

NOW ACCEPTING NEW STUDENTS TO THIS PROGRAM FOR 2011

	Beginner Level
When:	Begin May 19, 2011 REGISTER NOW! Thursday Evenings 6:00 - 7:30 PM
Location: Minneapolis Classes	Tilopa Tai Chi Qigong CenterLynnhurst Church 4501 Colfax Avenue South Minneapolis, Minnesota Enter on Colfax Avenue (South Wing)
Tuition:	Our Quarter System is based on 12 week sessions of time. Quarters are on a continuum. Please Email or call us at (612) 825- 6824 for rates and or any questions you might have.
To Register:	Please download our registration form. Mail it along with your Tuition Payment to enroll.

OBSERVATION SCHEDULE : You may observe the Complete Grand Long Form of KUANG PING (CHEN) style TAI CHI CH'UAN on any Monday evening at 8 PM or Saturday morning at 11:30 AM.

If you have questions concerning this Tai Chi Program or need directions to our Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota, Location: Call 612-825-6824 or Email.
Please leave quietly after the Form has been completed so that Advanced Classes may have their class time afterwards. Thank You.

Our Great Tai Chi Practices of Inner Harmony

2011-05-10T16:17:00.000-07:00

Lightning Sparks the Skies
in the Eight Directions
as the Evening Stars Move through Mountains

In the Ambrosial Hours
Before Dawn
The Scented Air
is filled with
Greening Power

It Circles Round
My Smile to You

Circles Round All the Islands
Circles Round our Silent Poses

In the Aloha Hours when we play into the
Arms of Harmony
Our Great Grand Long Form of Tai Chi Chuan ~

Marilyn
Enjoy your Tai Chi in Aloha!

Happy Chinese New Year Minneapolis

2011-02-01T15:49:00.000-08:00

YEAR OF RABBIT © Marilyn Allysum

Burrow deep in the inner silence

Listen to the wonder

of fallen snow

Nest into the sublime

where darkness

lifts from

behind long lashes...

All desires are within,

none are absent

Jump away from

the arguments

of the mind...

Rolling back,

return to the Primal

Understanding reality

is to uncoil

the thread

and pluck the string of

Heaven and Earth

Long living, far reaching

is the Goal

Listening to the

rhythm of nature

Manifest benevolence

out of chaos.

The Lesson of the Wind

2011-01-27T19:21:00.000-08:00

The Lesson of the Wind ~ and How It Relates to Tai Chi Practice Question: Does it have form?
Answer: It has no form.

Question: If it has no form, how can it be seen?
Answer: It can be seen, but not with the eyes.

A writing from the Tao says, “When you look at it, you don’t see it.
When you listen for it, you don’t hear it.”

This is the Way of the Tao and the practice of Tai Chi and Qigong.
Let’s take the example of the Wind to understand this principle.
Seeing the tree branches sway in the mountains, watching the great waves in the sea, we cannot say that the wind is not there; yet, we cannot see it. We cannot grasp it, so, in a sense we cannot say that it is there.
“Looking at it, you don’t see it, yet never are you not seeing it; listening for it, you don’t hear it, yet never are you not hearing it.”
To say it can be seen and heard does not mean it is within the reach of the outgoing faculties, eye and ear. The Masters tell us that it is a matter of cultivating the inner self.
This is the Qi, the Life Force Energy that flows within us and throughout all of nature. It can be seen and heard by the will. This is also the way of refinement of our higher potential.
As we practice Tai Chi and Qigong, in the beginning of refining the self, we feel as if no progress is being made. Then, we begin to see how movement and stillness work together towards the goal. Notice how, when any work is accomplished, all our entanglements abruptly cease. We arrive at a place where movement and stillness are both forgotten and all is calm in our within.
Now, the Qi potential can be gathered like the sail gathers the wind, and the inner pearl begins to take shape. In this way, ultimately, our Tai Chi nature walks and moves us, sits and stands with us through each breath.
The teachings of the Grand Masters use various stories and ways to lead our Tai Chi from the crude to the subtle, from the unseen to the seen, so that gradually, a state of being in our center is fully entered, where beatitude, essence, openness and compassion can be realized and lived.
The Way is not on paper. Writings and sayings are like a wonderful boat that comes to ferry people across a river. Once we arrive safely on the other shore, the boat has no more use to us. This being said, we should not cling to the words, just savor the meaning, tap in, and root to the source. We can choose to place our attention on happiness in our Tai Chi practices.

Chung Ho Chi by Li, Tao-ch’un
"The Book of Balance and Harmony" translation by Thomas Cleary, Revision by Marilyn Allysum
Tilopa Tai Chi Qigong Center
Minneapolis, Minnesota and Maui, Hawaii

All is a Miracle.

2011-01-20T15:19:00.001-08:00

"People usually consider walking on water or in thin air a miracle. But I think the real miracle is not to walk either on water or in thin air, but to walk on earth. Every day we are engaged in a miracle which we don't even recognize: a blue sky, white clouds, green leaves, the black, curious eyes of a child -- our own two eyes. All is a miracle."

Quote from— Thich Nhat Hanh

DANCING ON THE SKY - MEDITATION WALKING

2010-12-31T18:36:00.000-08:00

There are many simple ways to attune ourselves to "listening to our within" which we can practice and draw benefit from daily.

I would like to present a technique to reconnect ourselves to a quiet mind, a strong resilient body, and a focused alertness whereby strong nerves are developed, blood pressure lowers, and mental energy is produced.

Walking Meditation is done by noticing the lifting, forward, and placing movement of the foot in each step. First, completely relax the body and allow the physical weight of the body to "sink" into the feet. Allow extraneous thoughts to gently leave you like "clouds moving past in the sky." Let the tongue hang from the roof of you mouth throughout your breathing cycles. Take small steps with a "smile" as you attitude and "joy" as your nature. It is an exercise in MINDFULNESS. It is not how far the step travels, but the balance and root and flow that is achieved when we learn to "stay home" as we walk. You will arrive at you destination "without going" anywhere.

Lifting, Placing, Moving (by being pulled through) ... Lifting, Placing, Moving. It is very simple. It is helpful to finish one step completely before lifting the other foot. Again, it is not an exercise in movement alone. By practicing Meditation Walking we begin to develop a careful awareness of out inner and outer environment. In the course of the day, you can expect many changes. Sometimes you may feel like walking more quickly, sometimes very slowly. You can take the steps as a single unit, "stepping, stepping." Or you may keep it divided into 3 parts. Experiment. The essential thing is to be mindful, to be aware of what is happening. Your personal Meditation Walking will then always assist you as you remain rooted and flow like the clouds as you appear to be DANCING IN THE SKY!

Written by Marilyn Allysum

Join us for Our New year Classes 2011 at

Grand Long Form Tai Chi and Qigong Class

NOW ACCEPTING NEW STUDENTS TO THIS PROGRAM FOR 2011

	Beginner Level
When:	Quarter 1, Begins January 13, 2011 Now accepting new students! REGISTER NOW! Thursday Evenings 6:00 - 7:30 PM
Location: Minneapolis Classes	Tilopa Tai Chi Qigong Center Lynnhurst Church 4501 Colfax Avenue South Minneapolis, Minnesota Enter on Colfax Avenue (South Wing)
Tuition:	Our Quarter System is based on 12 week sessions of time. Quarters are on a continuum. Please Email or call us at (612) 825- 6824 for rates and or any questions you might have.
To Register:	Please download our registration form. Mail it along with your Tuition Payment to enroll.

Qigong Notes

2010-12-29T11:51:00.000-08:00

The Ancient Art of Qigong is a deep healing system; harmonizing the life force Chi within the body and the mind, utilizing deep belly breathing, we wave hands like clouds, with our arms sweeping away obstacles, while touching nothing, enjoying the power of Qi - energy flowing throughout the body.

NEW YEARS TA CHI AND QIGONG CLASSES BEGINNING IN JANUARY MINNEAPOLIS CENTER

2010-12-27T20:06:00.000-08:00

Welcome we have new classes in Grand Long Form Tai Chi Chuan and Longevity Tai Chi

beginning in January.

QIGONG FOR CANCER FREE WORKSHOP

2010-10-20T12:48:00.000-07:00

QIGONG FOR CANCER Workshop
A Free Event

November 6 , 2010 Saturday
3:30 – 5:00 PM

Location:
Tilopa Tai Chi Qigong Center
Lynnhurst Congregational Church
4501 Colfax Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN.
Enter on Colfax through Double Doors

Register:
Pre-Registration is necessary, as space is limited.
Please Email: taichicenter@yahoo.com to register and include all names of participants.

About The Workshop:
You will be introduced to Qigong Techniques for calming and centering the emotional, mental, and physical self. Qigong is a wonderful means used to strengthen and harmonize the internal organs of the body gently, without force. Learn specific Qigong Techniques that support the immune system, lymphatic system, and help respiration, and reduce nausea. Build stamina comfortably as you employ mind, breath, and energy points in the body.

Marilyn Allysum, director & founder of Tilopa Tai Chi Qigong Center, will instruct.
With 40 years experience in the field, her life's work has been devoted to the internal practices of the Chinese Healing Arts of Tai Chi and Qigong.
Since 1977, she has traveled extensively and been hosted by universities, health organizations, and corporations throughout the world, as well as maintaining directorship of her school: Tilopa Tai Chi Qigong Center.

" I have dedicated my work to improving understanding and health benefits from Qigong.” Qigong translates as Qi “vital breath” + Gong “energy work”.
Qigong is an ancient science developed in China that has proven results in bringing harmony and balance to the body, mind and emotional self.

DVD's and MUSIC CD's will be Available for purchase.
For additional information on Qigong and Marilyn Allysum: www.iTaiChi.com

QIGONG FOR CANCER FREE WORKSHOP November 6

2010-10-20T12:34:00.000-07:00

QIGONG FOR CANCER Workshop

A Free Event

November 6 , 2010 Saturday

3:30 – 5:00 PM

Location:

Tilopa Tai Chi Qigong Center

Lynnhurst Congregational Church

4501 Colfax Avenue South

Minneapolis, MN.

Enter on Colfax through Double Doors

Register:

Pre-Registration is necessary, as space is limited.
Please Email to register and include all names of participants.

About The Workshop:

You will be introduced to Qigong Techniques for calming and centering the emotional, mental, and physical self. Qigong is a wonderful means used to strengthen and harmonize the internal organs of the body gently, without force. Learn specific Qigong Techniques that support the immune system, lymphatic system, and help respiration, and reduce nausea. Build stamina comfortably as you employ mind, breath, and energy points in the body.

Marilyn Allysum, director & founder of Tilopa Tai Chi Qigong Center, will instruct.
With 40 years experience in the field, her life's work has been devoted to the internal practices of the Chinese Healing Arts of Tai Chi and Qigong.

Since 1977, she has traveled extensively and been hosted by universities, health organizations, and corporations throughout the world, as well as maintaining directorship of her school: Tilopa Tai Chi Qigong Center.

" I have dedicated my work to improving understanding and health benefits from Qigong.” Qigong translates as Qi “vital breath” + Gong “energy work”.

Qigong is an ancient science developed in China that has proven results in bringing harmony and balance to the body, mind and emotional self.

DVD's and MUSIC CD's will be Available for purchase.

Additional Information on Qigong and Marilyn Allysum: www.iTaiChi.com

BEGINNER TAI CHI & QIGONG CLASSES: SATURDAY MORNINGS

2010-09-27T10:33:00.000-07:00

LONGEVITY TAI CHI & QIGONG CLASS
NEW BEGINNER CLASS

Experience why Harvard calls it " The Perfect Activity for the rest of your Life!"

Saturdays 9 – 10:15 AM
Through December 18, 2010
Registration and Tuition: Call 612-825-6824 or Email:
taichicenter@yahoo.com

Recent Studies have documented the varied and wonderful results of Tai Chi and Qigong Practices for HEALTH and WELLNESS, from increasing Bone Density to helping those suffering from Fibromyalgia and Arthritis.

Marilyn Allysum, Director & Founder of Tilopa Tai Chi Qigong Center,
brings 40 years experience in the field of these Internal Qigong practices.
Since 1977, she has traveled extensively and been hosted by universities, health organizations, and corporations throughout the world, as well as maintaining Directorship of her school: Tilopa Tai Chi Qigong Center.
" I have dedicated my work to improving understanding and health benefits from Tai Chi and Qigong.
Our teaching system is unique in that students learn each posture of Tai Chi as internal Qigong. We will work with proper breathing techniques and calming the mind. It should also help restore an inner balance to the body/mind system when practiced regularly."

In LONGEVITY TAI CHI QIGONG, you will be introduced to Qigong Postures to strengthen the Internal Organs and cleanse the body systems, boost the immune system, and increase balance, flexibility, and athletic stamina.

DVD's and MUSIC CD's will be Available for purchase.

Additional Information:
Please visit our website @
www.iTaiChi.com

Tai Chi Reported to Ease Fibromyalgia

2010-08-18T17:53:00.000-07:00

Tai Chi May Help Ease Fibromyalgia
Participants reported less pain, a happier mood and overall better quality of life
By Jenifer Goodwin
HealthDay Reporter

WEDNESDAY, Aug. 18 (HealthDay News) -- Fibromyalgia sufferers may find relief from the chronic pain condition by doing tai chi, new research finds.

Researchers divided 66 people with fibromyalgia into two groups: one group did hour-long sessions of tai chi twice a week for 12 weeks; the other had a twice-weekly wellness education class followed by gentle stretching.

At the end of 12 weeks, the tai chi group reported improvements in their scores on questionnaires regarding both physical and mental fibromyalgia symptoms. That included decreased pain and increased ability to do daily tasks without pain; less fatigue, depression and anxiety; and an overall better quality of life. Patients also reported better sleep quality and improved physical conditioning.

The improvements were still evident at 24 weeks, according to the research reported in the Aug. 19 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.

"It was incredible," said lead study author Dr. Chenchen Wang, an associate professor of medicine in the rheumatology department at Tufts Medical Center in Boston. "You could see them change every week. They became very happy. I felt very, very excited to be with them."

Fibromyalgia is characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, insomnia and multiple tender points. The syndrome can also cause psychological issues, including anxiety, depression, and memory and concentration problems, sometimes called the "fibromyalgia fog."

About 10 million Americans have fibromyalgia, and about 75 percent to 90 percent of them are women, according to estimates from the National Fibromyalgia Association.

Doctors will often suggest exercise, sleep hygiene techniques and medications to treat the condition, but often with limited success, said Dr. Gloria Yeh, an assistant professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, who wrote an accompanying editorial in the journal.

Most patients, according to background information in the article, remain in pain years after the diagnosis, are aerobically unfit, have poor muscle strength and flexibility, and need medications to control symptoms.

While larger studies are needed to confirm the findings, tai chi looks promising as an alternative treatment, Yeh said.

"This could represent an ideal exercise for fibromyalgia sufferers. Since it is a low-impact, gentle, non-threatening, accessible activity, it may be a perfect exercise for debilitated patients with fibromyalgia who otherwise cannot or choose not to do other forms of exercise," Yeh said. "Also, since tai chi has a meditative component, it may also help to address the stress and anxiety that may be associated with the condition."

So what is it about tai chi that works?

There's no definitive answer to that just yet, Wang said. Tai chi is a mind-body exercise that originated as a martial art in China, utilizing slow, gentle movements to build strength and flexibility, as well as deep breathing and relaxation, to move qi, or vital energy, throughout the body.

Prior research has shown exercise can improve mood, Wang added. The controlled breathing and movements may promote "mental tranquility," according to the study, which could help with pain.

"The physical component of tai chi can improve aerobic capacity, strength and muscle function," Wang said. "But in my opinion, the most important part is mental. You see lots of patients improve their depression and become good friends with each other."

The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine of the U.S. National Institutes of Health provided funding for the research.

More information

The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine has more on tai chi.

SOURCES: Chenchen Wang, M.D., associate professor of medicine, department of rheumatology, Tufts Medical Center, Boston; Gloria Yeh, M.D., M.P.H., assistant professor of medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston; Aug. 19, 2010, New England Journal of Medicine

Copyright © 2010 HealthDay. All rights reserved.

2010-06-24T12:11:00.000-07:00

In the Taoist understanding
We die into this world and are born
back into the Oneness.

"When Beauty shows itself, all the
essences of life converge in it as a
center, and it therefore has as a
tributary the entire universe." --
Source unknown.

"The stillness in stillness is not real
stillness. Only when there is
stillness in movement can the
spiritual rhythm appear which
pervades heaven and earth." --
Taoist text.

New Longevity Tai Chi Class
Saturday - July 10th - 2010
More info
http://www.itaichi.net/Longevity.htm

New York Times: A Little Tai Chi Can Go a Long Way Against Shingles

2010-05-15T12:55:00.000-07:00

New York Times
Exercise: A Little Tai Chi
Can Go a Long Way Against Shingles
By ERIC NAGOURNEY
Older people who practice tai chi may be better equipped to fight off the virus that causes shingles or, if they do get the disease, may have a milder case of it, researchers say.
Shingles, a painful nerve condition, is caused by the virus that causes chickenpox. The virus, varicella-zoster, can linger in the body for many years after a case of chickenpox and then emerge as shingles. The disease generally affects people older than 50, as their level of antibodies to the virus decreases.
Tai chi, the centuries-old practice from China, is considered a martial art, but it includes aerobic activity, relaxation and meditation. It has been found in the past to strengthen people’s immune systems.
In a study paid for by the National Institutes of Health, researchers took 112 volunteers ages 59 to 86 and split them into two groups. One was given 40-minute tai chi lessons three times a week for 16 weeks. The other was given health-counseling classes.
The researchers, led by Dr. Michael R. Irwin of the University of California, Los Angeles, found that the people who did tai chi improved their immunity to varicella-zoster. They also found that when the volunteers were vaccinated later against the virus, the tai chi practitioners had a better response to the vaccine. The study appears in the current issue of The Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.
The finding that the exercise significantly raised the volunteers’ immunity to the shingles virus suggests that it may also offer help fighting off other viruses, the study said.

TAI CHI and QIGONG SPRING CLASSES 2010

2010-04-22T12:58:00.000-07:00

See why Harvard Calls it: THE BEST ACTIVITY FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE !
Tilopa Tai Chi Qigong Minneapolis Center, since 1977, offers specialized programs in Tai Chi and Qigong.
Receive quality individual training and support from our Professional Staff and Director Marilyn Allysum.
New Beginners can enroll for Day and Evening Classes.
612-825-6824

www.iTaiChi.com

2009-10-15T13:00:00.000-07:00

2009-09-22T12:53:00.001-07:00

Tai Chi Brush Paintings First Unitarian Society of Minneapolis October 18 - November 15
Marilyn Allysum
Marilyn is a consummate artist in three different disciplines.

1. As an innovative and exciting Chinese Brush Painter. She has developed her own inimitable style. The phenomena of the natural world is reproduced subtly, with effortless effort, and intuitive improvisation, the brush describing and creating in one swift flowing spontaneous movement, entrancing the beholder.

2. As an award winning musician, multi-instrumentalist (piano, flute, gu zheng/chinese harp, accordion), vocalist, and composer. She has released two highly acclaimed musical C.D.’s in the past 5 years.

3. Since 1970, Marilyn has been a practitioner of the Ancient Healing Arts of Tai Chi and Qi Gong, and as Director of Tilopa Tai Chi Center has taught extensively since 1977. She has been hosted by numerous colleges and organizations throughout the United States

As a young child drawing was a focused part of each evening. At age 18 an exhibition of Asian Art gave her direction. She was taught in Classical techniques of Chinese Brush Painting, whereby the brush becomes an extension of the whole being. Her brush movement stems from the deep well-spring root received by 30 years of T’ai Chi Ch’uan and meditation practices. No sketches or preliminary drawing is done on the painting threshold - the artist prepares oneself, then allows the nature or spirit of the subject to spring forth. The essence of the delicate brush and paper does not allow one to modify, or adjust the stroke without spoiling the effect of the whole picture. As expressed in the Manual, The Way of Chinese Brush Painting by Mai-mai Sze “each brushstroke should be a living idea. Brushwork is thus the direct expression of the mind in action. Its function is to make visible the invisible. The power to do this is often referred to as pi li (brush strength), a term embracing skill and dexterity and, of equal if not greater importance, the mental and spiritual motivation.” In order to manifest a rhythm of balance and harmony, it is necessary to cultivate “stilling the heart” - a state of inner quietness that relates to the silence of the Tao and its processes.

The health benefits of tai chi

2009-09-19T15:05:00.000-07:00

from Newsletters Harvard Women's Health Watch

The health benefits of tai chi - This gentle form of exercise can prevent or ease many ills of aging and could be the perfect activity for the rest of your life.

Minneapolis Tai Chi Classes for New Beginners Fall 2009
click here

Tai chi is often described as "meditation in motion," but it might well be called "medication in motion." There is growing evidence that this mind-body practice, which originated in China as a martial art, has value in treating or preventing many health problems. And you can get started even if you aren't in top shape or the best of health.

In this low-impact, slow-motion exercise, you go without pausing through a series of motions named for animal actions — for example, "white crane spreads its wings" — or martial arts moves, such as "box both ears." As you move, you breathe deeply and naturally, focusing your attention — as in some kinds of meditation — on your bodily sensations. Tai chi differs from other types of exercise in several respects. The movements are usually circular and never forced, the muscles are relaxed rather than tensed, the joints are not fully extended or bent, and connective tissues are not stretched. Tai chi can be easily adapted for anyone, from the most fit to people confined to wheelchairs or recovering from surgery.

"A growing body of carefully conducted research is building a compelling case for tai chi as an adjunct to standard medical treatment for the prevention and rehabilitation of many conditions commonly associated with age," says Peter M. Wayne, assistant professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School and director of the Tai Chi and Mind-Body Research Program at Harvard Medical School's Osher Research Center. An adjunct therapy is one that's used together with primary medical treatments, either to address a disease itself or its primary symptoms, or, more generally, to improve a patient's functioning and quality of life.

No pain, big gains

Although tai chi is slow and gentle and doesn't leave you breathless, it addresses the key components of fitness — muscle strength, flexibility, balance, and, to a lesser degree, aerobic conditioning. Here's some of the evidence:

Muscle strength. In a 2006 study published in Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, Stanford University researchers reported benefits of tai chi in 39 women and men, average age 66, with below-average fitness and at least one cardiovascular risk factor. After taking 36 tai chi classes in 12 weeks, they showed improvement in both lower-body strength (measured by the number of times they could rise from a chair in 30 seconds) and upper-body strength (measured by their ability to do arm curls).

In a Japanese study using the same strength measures, 113 older adults were assigned to different 12-week exercise programs, including tai chi, brisk walking, and resistance training. People who did tai chi improved more than 30% in lower-body strength and 25% in arm strength — almost as much as those who participated in resistance training, and more than those assigned to brisk walking.

"Although you aren't working with weights or resistance bands, the unsupported arm exercise involved in tai chi strengthens your upper body," says internist Dr. Gloria Yeh, an assistant professor at Harvard Medical School. "Tai chi strengthens both the lower and upper extremities and also the core muscles of the back and abdomen."

Flexibility. Women in the 2006 Stanford study significantly boosted upper- and lower-body flexibility as well as strength.

Balance. Tai chi improves balance and, according to some studies, reduces falls. Proprioception — the ability to sense the position of one's body in space — declines with age. Tai chi helps train this sense, which is a function of sensory neurons in the inner ear and stretch receptors in the muscles and ligaments. Tai chi also improves muscle strength and flexibility, which makes it easier to recover from a stumble. Fear of falling can make you more likely to fall; some studies have found that tai chi training helps reduce that fear.

Aerobic conditioning. Depending on the speed and size of the movements, tai chi can provide some aerobic benefits. But in the Japanese study, only participants assigned to brisk walking gained much aerobic fitness. If your clinician advises a more intense cardio workout with a higher heart rate than tai chi can offer, you may need something more aerobic as well.

https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletters/Harvard_Womens_Health_Watch/2009/May/The-health-benefits-of-tai-chi

The focus of our school is on the deeper healing and classical meditative arts of Tai Chi Chuan (Taijichuan) and Qigong (Chi Kung, Chi Gong) as it relates to the lineage of our
Grand Long Form Tai Chi Chuan.

Minneapolis Tai Chi Classes for New Beginners Are Beginning Now Fall 2009

MINNEAPOLIS MINNESOTA FALL TAI CHI and QIGONG CLASSES

2009-08-28T17:11:00.000-07:00

FALL CLASSES FOR BEGINNERS!
TILOPA TAI CHI QIGONG CENTER
www.itaichi.com

Since 1977

612-825-6824 or email taichicenter@yahoo.com

Experience in the Internal Arts
Director: Marilyn Allysum

QIGONG: INTERNAL SYSTEMS QIGONG
Wave Hands Like Clouds
Body Mind and Spirit in Harmony
An Easy to Learn System of Foundational Qigong
Postures for a Total Approach to Health and Well-Being.
These Qigong Postures are deep replenishing techniques
that are from our Chen Family Tradition.
4 Week Sessions begin at the Start of Each Month:
Sept. 7 - 28
Oct. 5 - 26
Nov. 2 - 23
Monday Evening Classes Time: 7 - 8 PM

Tuition: $75 / 4 - week session
Pre-registration necessary
$25 / Drop - in

Register: Please download our Registration Form
from the web: www.iTaiChi.com
Mail it along with your Tuition Payment to enroll.

Where: Tilopa Tai Chi Qigong Center
Lynnhurst Church
4501 Colfax Ave. S., Minneapolis, Minnesota

LONGEVITY TAI CHI & QIGONG
10 Week Study Course with DVD
The Treasure of this particular Tai Chi and Qigong System
is that you will have an easy to learn, Daily 7-minute
Tai Chi Form that gives lasting results throughout the day and
effectively transforms one's life. It can be practiced at work or
at home, with no special equipment. Learn a series of Qigong
postures for health and healing, combined with the
Longevity Tai Chi Form, which was created from the Grand Long Form
of Tai Chi Chuan (Chen Lineage) by Marilyn Allysum.
Longevity Tai Chi and Qigong is a dynamic physical exercise system
and a tranquil centering art.
Saturday Morning Class
Time: 9:30 - 10:45 AM
October 3 - December 19

Tuition: $185. includes DVD
Pre-registration necessary.

Register: Please download our Registration Form
from the web: www.iTaiChi.com
Mail it along with your Tuition Payment to enroll.

Where: Tilopa Tai Chi Qigong Center
Lynnhurst Church
4501 Colfax Ave. S., Minneapolis, Minnesota

GRAND LONG FORM TAI CHI CHUAN & QIGONG
Accepting New Beginner Students
This study course is the only one of its kind offered
in the Upper Midwest. Taoist Philosophies, Energy Points,
Proper Breathing Techniques, Personalized Instruction taught
in the time-honored Tradition from the Grand Masters.

FALL QUARTER BEGINNER LEVEL 1
Thursday Evening Class
Time: 6 - 7:30 PM
Tuition: $180. Quarterly ( 12 week Quarter sessions )
Pre-registration necessary.
This study course meets through 4 Quarter Sessions

Register: Please download our Registration Form
from the web: www.iTaiChi.com
Mail it along with your Tuition Payment to enroll.

Where: Tilopa Tai Chi Qigong Center
Lynnhurst Church
4501 Colfax Ave. S., Minneapolis, Minnesota

QIGONG FOR CANCER
Eight Session Class with instructor Marilyn Allysum
This Anti-Cancer Qigong Therapy Class begins October 3,
and meets on both Saturday Mornings & Monday Evenings
for 4 consecutive weeks.
Learn specific Qigong Techniques that Boost the Immune System,
Support the Lymphatic System, build Stamina and Harmonize the
Internal Organs of the Body Gently without force.
When: October 3 - 26
Time: Saturday Mornings 12 - 1 PM (Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24)
Monday Evenings 7 - 8 PM (Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26)

Tuition: $150. Per person, $250 for 2 people.
Pre-registration Required. Class size is limited.

Register: Please download our Registration Form
from the web: www.iTaiChi.com
Mail it along with your Tuition Payment to enroll.

Where: Tilopa Tai Chi Qigong Center
Lynnhurst Church
4501 Colfax Ave. S., Minneapolis, Minnesota

QIGONG FOR FERTILITY October - November Four Week Session with instructor Marilyn Allysum
Reproductive Qigong Exercises are specific Qigong Techniques
that work to Gather, Build, Nurture and Store precious
Life Force Energy for Fertility.
Very effective in attuning and tonifying the ever-aging
reproductive system, Qi Gong for Fertility specifically enhances
women's health and energy for bearing children.

When: October 31 - November 21
Time: Saturday Mornings 12 - 1 PM

Tuition: $120. Per person.
Pre-registration Required. Class size limited.

Register: Please download our Registration Form
from the web: www.iTaiChi.com
Mail it along with your Tuition Payment to enroll.

Where: Tilopa Tai Chi Qigong Center
Lynnhurst Church
4501 Colfax Ave. S., Minneapolis, Minnesota

NEW SPRING CLASSES

2009-04-29T11:59:00.000-07:00

SPRING CLASSES!
TILOPA TAI CHI QIGONG CENTER

www.itaichi.com
Since 1977

612-825-6824
taichicenter@yahoo.com

Experience in the Internal Arts
Director: Marilyn Allysum

TEMPLE QIGONG : Pearl Postures
Gaze at Clouds Moving Past...Old Turtle Rises from the Deep...
Saturday Morning
MAY 9
9 - 10 AM
Tuition: $25.

QIGONG: Internal Systems Qigong
Wave Hands Like Clouds
3 Week Session
Monday Evening
7 - 8 PM
MAY 11,18, 25
Tuition: $75.

LONGEVITY TAI CHI & QIGONG
10 Week Study Course with DVD
Saturday Morning
9:30 - 10:45 AM
MAY 9 - JULY 18 (no class July 4)
Tuition: $185. includes DVD

GRAND LONG FORM TAI CHI CHUAN & QIGONG
Accepting New Beginner Students through May 14
Thursday Evenings
Spring Quarter Beginner Level 1
6 - 7:30 PM
Tuition: $180. Quarterly ( 12 week Quarter sessions )
This study course meets through 4 Quarter Sessions

ACR: Traditional Chinese Exercise Beats Stretching for Arthritic Knees

2008-12-02T16:52:00.000-08:00

ACR: Traditional Chinese Exercise Beats Stretching for Arthritic Knees

SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 27 -- For obese patients with osteoarthritis of the knee, stretching exercises can't beat the pain relieving power of Tai Chi's graceful movements and peaceful frame of mind, researchers found.

The ancient Chinese martial art-turned-exercise improved pain scores three-fold better than stretching plus wellness education (P=0.0004), Chenchen Wang, M.D., of Tufts University in Boston, and colleagues reported here at the American College of Rheumatology meeting.

Because no weight loss was recorded for either group in the small randomized trial, the results were likely related to increased muscle strength and flexibility, Dr. Wang said.

The meditation, deep breathing, and relaxation involved may also benefit patients with this kind of chronic condition, she added.

Action Points

Note that Tai Chi is a traditional Chinese martial art that combines meditation with slow, gentle movements, deep breathing, and relaxation.

Note that this study was published as an abstract and presented orally at a conference. These data and conclusions should be considered to be preliminary until published in a peer-reviewed journal.

Osteoarthritis involves a catch-22 of interlinked pain, muscle weakness, structural damage, and lack of self-efficacy that leads to disability, Dr. Wang said.

Tai Chi has been advocated by the Arthritis Foundation as a form of exercise without the kind of deep bending or squatting moves that can be hard on the knees.

Although the Sun style of Tai Chi in the Arthritis Foundation's program emphasizes strength more than the Yang style used in the study, all Tai Chi styles share the same principles, Dr. Wang said.

This kind of complementary approach to treatment of osteoarthritis is promising, commented David A. Fox, M.D., of the University of Michigan Medical Center in Ann Arbor and ACR president.

Other types of exercise can also be effective in knee osteoarthritis, but "there's a lot going on in Tai Chi that could be something unique," said Dr. Fox, who was a moderator at the plenary session where the results were presented.

Dr. Wang's group studied 40 patients who met ACR criteria for knee osteoarthritis and had a body mass index of at least 40 kg/m2.

They were randomized to a 12-week intervention of one hour twice a week with either group Tai Chi sessions or stretching exercises plus education on osteoarthritis, diet and nutrition, and physical and mental health.

The groups were statistically similar at baseline, although the control group tended to have worse osteoarthritis and health status.

By the end of the exercise intervention, the stretching group remained fairly similar to baseline with a decrease of just 38.5 points on the 500-point WOMAC pain scale (95% confidence interval -87.2 to 10.3) whereas the Tai Chi group had a 157.3-point drop in pain (95% CI -198.5 to -116.0).

Among the secondary outcomes, the findings for Tai Chi compared with the stretching control group at 12 weeks included:

* Improved physical function scores (change -506.8 versus 182.2 on a 1,700-point scale, P=0.001)
* Better self-reported global functioning (change -3.0 versus -0.8 on a 10-point scale, P=0.003)
* Better physician-reported global functioning (change -3.2 versus -1.4 on a 10-point scale, P=0.0009)
* Improved chair stand test time (-12.0 versus -0.9 sec, P=0.0005)
* Increase self-efficacy (0.6 versus -0.1 on a scale of one to five, P=0.04)
* Greater reduction in depressive symptoms (-7.4 versus -0.7, P=0.009)

Among patients followed beyond the end of the intervention phase, the reduction in pain gradually faded with a borderline significant difference at 24 weeks (P=0.05) and a numerically but not statistically significant difference at 48 weeks (P=0.2).

Dr. Wang cautioned that the study was not double blind, which could raise concerns since -- as one audience member said during the question-and-answer session -- "some placebos are better than other placebos."

However, Dr. Wang's group tested the patients' outcome expectations and found no difference between the groups.

Dr. Wang reported support from the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine and the National Center for Research Resources of the National Institutes of Health.

Dr. Fox reported no conflicts of interest.

http://www.medpagetoday.com/MeetingCoverage/ACR/11475

By Crystal Phend, Staff Writer, MedPage Today
Published: October 27, 2008
Reviewed by Zalman S. Agus, MD; Emeritus Professor
University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine

Tilopa Tai Chi Qigong Center, Minneapolis, St. Paul, Minnesota, and Maui, Hawaii

2008-11-29T17:50:00.000-08:00

Tilopa Tai Chi Qigong Center, Minneapolis, St. Paul, Minnesota, and Maui, Hawaii

Minneapolis Tai Chi Grand Long Form Class

2008-11-29T17:27:00.000-08:00

“Tai Chi Chuan Grand Long Form & Qigong Classes”

2009 Tai Chi Classes for Beginners on Thursday Evenings
Gift Certificates Available

Minneapolis Tai Chi Grand Long Form Class

Minneapolis Tai Chi Information Page

2008-11-29T17:02:00.000-08:00

Minneapolis Tai Chi Information Page

2008-11-29T16:19:00.000-08:00

Tai Chi Chuan
Marilyn Allysum

Qigong (Chi Gong, Chi Kung)

2008-11-29T15:14:00.000-08:00