Frequently Asked Questions
I've never heard of Qigong. Is it like Taiji?
Qigong is a component of Chinese medicine. It uses body alignment, relaxation, visualization and movement to promote proper qi (energy) flow for physical, mental and emotional health. There are many kinds of qigong - some more physically vigorous, some more meditative. Liangong is one kind of qigong. Taiji is based on qigong principles which provide its health benefits. Reports on the health benefits of taiji are likely from the practice of taiji exercises which are often qgiong. Such studies are usually too short to really learn and practice traditional taiji.
Qigong is a component of Chinese medicine. It uses body alignment, relaxation, visualization and movement to promote proper qi (energy) flow for physical, mental and emotional health. There are many kinds of qigong - some more physically vigorous, some more meditative. Liangong is one kind of qigong. Taiji is based on qigong principles which provide its health benefits. Reports on the health benefits of taiji are likely from the practice of taiji exercises which are often qgiong. Such studies are usually too short to really learn and practice traditional taiji.
What is the difference between Qigong and Taiji?
Qigong is a health exercise based on Chinese medicine (see above). Taiji is a health exercise (qigong), and is also a martial art. It's movements are very complex. Each limb moves differently, often with differing speeds and acceleration, as does the torso. All must move continuously with connection and relaxation for the health benefits it was designed for to become apparent. It is a study of the transitions, not just the end positions. Studying qigong first is recommended.
Qigong is a health exercise based on Chinese medicine (see above). Taiji is a health exercise (qigong), and is also a martial art. It's movements are very complex. Each limb moves differently, often with differing speeds and acceleration, as does the torso. All must move continuously with connection and relaxation for the health benefits it was designed for to become apparent. It is a study of the transitions, not just the end positions. Studying qigong first is recommended.
What benefits can I get from Qigong that I won't get from Taiji and vice versa?
Both are low impact, suitable for people of all ages including those who "hate" to exercise, don't stress joints if taught properly, don't require special equipment or outfits, can be practiced anywhere at any time, are usually practiced slowly and continuously, and can help us improve balance and feel better. Qigong, especially Liangong, improves range of motion while traditional taiji forms do not. Taiji classes may include range of motion exercises in their warm-ups, but it is not a part of its traditional movements. Liangong students often feel its benefits faster than those learning taiji. Liangong develops leg strength slowly while taiji forms, when practiced traditionally, require it from the beginning. Practitioners of both qigong and taiji can work up a sweat when the qi moves correctly, but usually more so with taiji. Taiji requires full-body connection as all four limbs and the torso move continuously in different directions and with varying accelerations. This can look simple but be very difficult and require much practice. Most qigong movements are simpler, moving only one part of the body at a time. Both develop in its practitioners a deep appreciation of our bodies and movement principles, and feel meditative, although taiji practitioners can reach even deeper layers over time due to its complexity that includes its martial qualities,
Both are low impact, suitable for people of all ages including those who "hate" to exercise, don't stress joints if taught properly, don't require special equipment or outfits, can be practiced anywhere at any time, are usually practiced slowly and continuously, and can help us improve balance and feel better. Qigong, especially Liangong, improves range of motion while traditional taiji forms do not. Taiji classes may include range of motion exercises in their warm-ups, but it is not a part of its traditional movements. Liangong students often feel its benefits faster than those learning taiji. Liangong develops leg strength slowly while taiji forms, when practiced traditionally, require it from the beginning. Practitioners of both qigong and taiji can work up a sweat when the qi moves correctly, but usually more so with taiji. Taiji requires full-body connection as all four limbs and the torso move continuously in different directions and with varying accelerations. This can look simple but be very difficult and require much practice. Most qigong movements are simpler, moving only one part of the body at a time. Both develop in its practitioners a deep appreciation of our bodies and movement principles, and feel meditative, although taiji practitioners can reach even deeper layers over time due to its complexity that includes its martial qualities,
I'm very out of shape. Will I feel awkward in your classes? Will I be able to keep up? With your classes help me be more fit?
Most people in the classes have fitness or health issues, and are middle age or older. The Beginning Liangong class is the best place to start. New movements are introduced slowly, just one or two per class with an emphasis on learning how to do them properly and safely, Everyone is encouraged to move within the comfort of their bodies. Stools are available when sitting is necessary. Because the Liangong movements are introduced slowly, people improve their fitness gently and feel more knowledgeable about their bodies after a 13 to 15-week class session. Some people experience amazing results quickly. Beginning Taiji develops leg strength (among other things) and requires more fitness to participate fully.
Most people in the classes have fitness or health issues, and are middle age or older. The Beginning Liangong class is the best place to start. New movements are introduced slowly, just one or two per class with an emphasis on learning how to do them properly and safely, Everyone is encouraged to move within the comfort of their bodies. Stools are available when sitting is necessary. Because the Liangong movements are introduced slowly, people improve their fitness gently and feel more knowledgeable about their bodies after a 13 to 15-week class session. Some people experience amazing results quickly. Beginning Taiji develops leg strength (among other things) and requires more fitness to participate fully.
I want to take Taiji (Tai Chi) for pain relief, to feel less stiff, improve my balance, start moving, get toward a level of fitness I used to have, deal with issues after hip or knee surgery/replacement, begin a regular practice that will help me age well ... Where should I start?
Beginning Liangong is a great place to start. Liangong is a type of qigong. Qigong is a component of Chinese medicine, is a foundation for taiji, and is the source of its healing benefits. People usually feel the benefits of Liangong faster and is the best starting point for its practice.
Beginning Liangong is a great place to start. Liangong is a type of qigong. Qigong is a component of Chinese medicine, is a foundation for taiji, and is the source of its healing benefits. People usually feel the benefits of Liangong faster and is the best starting point for its practice.
I want to take Taiji (Tai Chi) because of the articles I've read about research showing Taiji being good for preventing falls, improving balance, building strength, improving health, helping seniors age well... Why do you steer me to Liangong instead?
It is great that scientists are studying "Taiji" and that its benefits are getting publicized. Taiji practitioners do reap these benefits but qigong, especially Liangong (the qigong form I teach) will do it better and faster. It is not that the research is wrong, but the "Taiji" being taught in these studies are most likely taiji exercises, qigong movements, or modified for specific populations or to fit a research model in terms of time restrictions, etc. Traditional taiji is difficult to learn because the movements are complex and must be done with relaxation to get its particular benefits. It cannot be learned and its benefits gained in the couple hours per week for 8 weeks or even 6 months of a research study.
It is great that scientists are studying "Taiji" and that its benefits are getting publicized. Taiji practitioners do reap these benefits but qigong, especially Liangong (the qigong form I teach) will do it better and faster. It is not that the research is wrong, but the "Taiji" being taught in these studies are most likely taiji exercises, qigong movements, or modified for specific populations or to fit a research model in terms of time restrictions, etc. Traditional taiji is difficult to learn because the movements are complex and must be done with relaxation to get its particular benefits. It cannot be learned and its benefits gained in the couple hours per week for 8 weeks or even 6 months of a research study.
Do your classes help with weight loss?.
Qigong and taiji are designed to improve health. Learning to relax through proper alignment of the body, efficient movement based on how our bodies are designed to move, and stimulation of energetic channels and meridians help people of all shapes and sizes.
Qigong and taiji are designed to improve health. Learning to relax through proper alignment of the body, efficient movement based on how our bodies are designed to move, and stimulation of energetic channels and meridians help people of all shapes and sizes.
I've heard that Qigong is more for women and Taiji is more for men..
Not true! Qigong is for everyone who wants to improve their health and fitness. Taiji is for those who want a deeper understanding of their bodies, movement, and energy flow within traditional Taiji principles.
Not true! Qigong is for everyone who wants to improve their health and fitness. Taiji is for those who want a deeper understanding of their bodies, movement, and energy flow within traditional Taiji principles.
What style Taiji do you teach?
I teach Wu style which is more commonly practiced in China than in the U.S. I learned it from Master Yu Wen Mei who learned it from the creator's daughter, Wu Ying Hua, and her husband. Most people in the U.S. learn a version of Yang style. Both are one of the five traditional styles.
I teach Wu style which is more commonly practiced in China than in the U.S. I learned it from Master Yu Wen Mei who learned it from the creator's daughter, Wu Ying Hua, and her husband. Most people in the U.S. learn a version of Yang style. Both are one of the five traditional styles.
I've taken Taiji in the past and want to relearn or continue the practice I had started.
That's great! Please note that I might be teaching a different style of Taiji than the one taught in your previous class. Also, I'm not a "Follow me, we'll do the first 18 movements today," type of teacher. I emphasize the learning of traditional Taiji movement principles more than doing many movements from the form. We work on one movement at a time, often for weeks, to try to understand it and appreciate its subtleties. Students are expected to practice regularly outside of class. One of my goals is for students to be able to do the movements on their own. If you don't remember much or any of your Taiji movements, I suggest starting with Liangong.
That's great! Please note that I might be teaching a different style of Taiji than the one taught in your previous class. Also, I'm not a "Follow me, we'll do the first 18 movements today," type of teacher. I emphasize the learning of traditional Taiji movement principles more than doing many movements from the form. We work on one movement at a time, often for weeks, to try to understand it and appreciate its subtleties. Students are expected to practice regularly outside of class. One of my goals is for students to be able to do the movements on their own. If you don't remember much or any of your Taiji movements, I suggest starting with Liangong.
Is Taiji the same as Tai Chi? Is Qigong the same as Chi Kung?
Yes. Taiji (short for Taijiquan) and Qigong is the official pin yin spelling from China. Tai Chi (Tai Chi Chuan) and it's variations with apostrophes in various places, and Chi Kung are spellings based on a past system that originated in the west. For more information, check out this humorous but informative article - https://flowingzen.com/18388/9-reasons-you-should-stop-spelling-qigong-incorrectly/. (PS: I find the article fun but do not know and am not promoting the author.)
Yes. Taiji (short for Taijiquan) and Qigong is the official pin yin spelling from China. Tai Chi (Tai Chi Chuan) and it's variations with apostrophes in various places, and Chi Kung are spellings based on a past system that originated in the west. For more information, check out this humorous but informative article - https://flowingzen.com/18388/9-reasons-you-should-stop-spelling-qigong-incorrectly/. (PS: I find the article fun but do not know and am not promoting the author.)
Can I take more than one class a week?
Yes, but usually not in the beginning. People in the Beginning Liangong class who are new to qigong and Taiji can take the Beginning Taiji class starting with the second Liangong session (Liangong Series Two) after completing the Beginning Liangong class. Those with recent, prior experience with movement arts like dance, martial arts or yoga, who are interested in taking Beginning Liangong and Beginning Taiji at the same time, can contact me to discuss their participation. People progressing through the initial Liangong sessions can retake a previous class along with a current one. After attending the first three Liangong sessions that introduce all the exercises, the Continuing Liangong class is available and it is offered three times a week. People often participate more than once a week. The fee for a second weekly class is 20% off the one with the lesser fee, and all classes one is qualified for can be attended,
Yes, but usually not in the beginning. People in the Beginning Liangong class who are new to qigong and Taiji can take the Beginning Taiji class starting with the second Liangong session (Liangong Series Two) after completing the Beginning Liangong class. Those with recent, prior experience with movement arts like dance, martial arts or yoga, who are interested in taking Beginning Liangong and Beginning Taiji at the same time, can contact me to discuss their participation. People progressing through the initial Liangong sessions can retake a previous class along with a current one. After attending the first three Liangong sessions that introduce all the exercises, the Continuing Liangong class is available and it is offered three times a week. People often participate more than once a week. The fee for a second weekly class is 20% off the one with the lesser fee, and all classes one is qualified for can be attended,
If I cannot attend all the classes in a session, and it says the class is 14 weeks for $170 (for example), can I pay the fee for a 12 week class if I'll miss two classes?
I'm sorry, but it doesn't work that way. Each class is a certain length based on holidays and such, and that sets the fee for that class. That fee is the best deal per class for a class session. There is a per-class payment plan that is $15/class for the classes that will be attended, identified and paid for in advance at least monthly. This rate is not generally financially advantageous unless about four classes will be missed. There is a drop-in rate of $20/class, not permitted in beginning classes. If financial help is needed, there is a scholarship fund (see below).
I'm sorry, but it doesn't work that way. Each class is a certain length based on holidays and such, and that sets the fee for that class. That fee is the best deal per class for a class session. There is a per-class payment plan that is $15/class for the classes that will be attended, identified and paid for in advance at least monthly. This rate is not generally financially advantageous unless about four classes will be missed. There is a drop-in rate of $20/class, not permitted in beginning classes. If financial help is needed, there is a scholarship fund (see below).
What if I need to miss a class?
It would be great to be notified (text, email or phone call). Private lessons are available if they are needed to catch up on what was missed. This is especially recommended if more than one class in a row are missed. These are discounted for people who have paid the full-session rate for classes. There are no make-up classes.
It would be great to be notified (text, email or phone call). Private lessons are available if they are needed to catch up on what was missed. This is especially recommended if more than one class in a row are missed. These are discounted for people who have paid the full-session rate for classes. There are no make-up classes.
What if something comes up and I cannot continue the classes?
Refunds and credits toward future classes are available only for unexpected illness or injury.
Refunds and credits toward future classes are available only for unexpected illness or injury.
Is there any financial help to cover class fees?
Yes. There is a scholarship fund to help people with class fees. On the registration form, write down how much is needed, or send an email.
Yes. There is a scholarship fund to help people with class fees. On the registration form, write down how much is needed, or send an email.
I'd like to reserve a space in your upcoming class.
To reserve your space in a class, please download and complete a registration form, then mail it with payment to the address provided on the form. Spaces are reserved on a first-come basis determined by when the form and payment are received. People are notified about being in the class when their forms/payment are received.
To reserve your space in a class, please download and complete a registration form, then mail it with payment to the address provided on the form. Spaces are reserved on a first-come basis determined by when the form and payment are received. People are notified about being in the class when their forms/payment are received.
What kinds of payment methods do you accept?
Payments can be made using PayPal (www.paypal.me/dleungCHMA) or Venmo (@DebbieLeung-CHMA). If using the "Goods or Service" option, please add $6/class (max $12 for two classes with special deal) to cover fees charged to CH&MA. Checks (made out to Chinese Healing & Movement Arts, or CH&MA) can be mailed to PO Box 1153, Olympia, 98507 (NOT the studio). Cash and e-checks are also accepted. Sorry, no debit or credit cards.
Can I drop off the registration materials at the studio?
Yes. If no one is there, please put them in an envelope and stick it through the mail slot in the door. A quick email or text to let me know it is there is appreciated so that it can be picked up before too long.
If the class is full, is there a waiting list?
Yes. To get on the waiting list, register as described above and you will be notified when it is received. If spaces open after the first class, people on the list will be invited to join the class. At that time, the class will be closed to new students.
Yes. To get on the waiting list, register as described above and you will be notified when it is received. If spaces open after the first class, people on the list will be invited to join the class. At that time, the class will be closed to new students.
I am very sensitive to fragrances. Will I be able to attend classes?
There is a No Fragrance policy. We try to be mindful of people's environmental sensitivities. People are encouraged to let me know if there are issues. If it is not resolvable, class fees will be returned.
There is a No Fragrance policy. We try to be mindful of people's environmental sensitivities. People are encouraged to let me know if there are issues. If it is not resolvable, class fees will be returned.
What do we wear in your classes? Is there a uniform? What about shoes?
Wear whatever is comfortable for movement. There is no uniform. Please remove outdoor shoes before stepping onto the movement floor. Socks, slippers, clean bare feet and indoor shoes (shoes that are only worn indoors) are okay.
Is there any special class protocol? What do we call the teacher?
Classes are conducted casually. Questions are encouraged. Maintaining a welcoming environment of safety and support, especially for marginalized populations, governs our interactions. Everyone is addressed by our first names.
Classes are conducted casually. Questions are encouraged. Maintaining a welcoming environment of safety and support, especially for marginalized populations, governs our interactions. Everyone is addressed by our first names.
Is there a video or book to help us remember what was taught in class?
There is a video of the Liangong movements demonstrated by the creator's son at the Resources page of this website. There is also a book of Series 1 and 2 by my teacher Wen-Mei Yu for sale at the studio. It is important that these are used only for reference and as a memory tool. Please do not try to learn the movements from these resources. In class, proper form and alignment are emphasized to prevent injury and pain, especially for those experiencing issues with particular parts of their bodies. Practiced properly, pain can decrease with healing and strength regained. Handouts are also available to download from the Resources page.
There is a video of the Liangong movements demonstrated by the creator's son at the Resources page of this website. There is also a book of Series 1 and 2 by my teacher Wen-Mei Yu for sale at the studio. It is important that these are used only for reference and as a memory tool. Please do not try to learn the movements from these resources. In class, proper form and alignment are emphasized to prevent injury and pain, especially for those experiencing issues with particular parts of their bodies. Practiced properly, pain can decrease with healing and strength regained. Handouts are also available to download from the Resources page.
What do we do in private lessons? How long are they?
Private lessons are designed to meet the student's needs and goals which are determined during the first session. They can cover class material or other forms and exercises. They are usually an hour in length, but sometimes are a half-hour. We can meet weekly, monthly, or whatever schedule meets your needs and budget.
Private lessons are designed to meet the student's needs and goals which are determined during the first session. They can cover class material or other forms and exercises. They are usually an hour in length, but sometimes are a half-hour. We can meet weekly, monthly, or whatever schedule meets your needs and budget.
Do you do workshops or presentations for businesses, organizations, retreats, schools?
Yes. Workshops on self-care, pain relief, and pain-free/efficient movement have been presented for nurses, hospital chaplains, community organizers, childcare workers, librarians, acupuncture students, gardeners, farmers and foresters. Contact me to discuss details.
Yes. Workshops on self-care, pain relief, and pain-free/efficient movement have been presented for nurses, hospital chaplains, community organizers, childcare workers, librarians, acupuncture students, gardeners, farmers and foresters. Contact me to discuss details.
I sent you an email (or called and left a voice message) but haven't heard from you!
So sorry! Please accept my apologies. Sometimes I get really busy and things don't get done. Please contact me again.
So sorry! Please accept my apologies. Sometimes I get really busy and things don't get done. Please contact me again.
How do I find out about future classes?
An email newsletter with detailed information on upcoming classes and events goes out every month or two. Click on the button below to get on the list to receive it.
An email newsletter with detailed information on upcoming classes and events goes out every month or two. Click on the button below to get on the list to receive it.