Tai Chi and Qigong

Tai Chi is a type of Qigong: “qi” means energy, and “gong” means work or mastery. Like “yoga”, there is a range from gentle to athletic. “Tai Chi” falls in the middle, blending the two extremes for balance and harmony. A definition of Tai Chi (or Taiji) is "extreme" or "ultimate." Because it is a balanced practice, it is considered the “extreme ultimate” practice. Hence the name “Tai Chi.”

While Qigong consists of standing meditation exercises (which can be done standing, sitting or even laying down - perfect for warming up or slowing down), Tai Chi ‘posture’ is a single movement, for example, like “Part Wild Horse’s Mane” or “Brush Knee.” These postures are linked together by transitions.  This linking creates the Tai Chi Form.  

Hailed by Harvard Medical School as “Medication in Motion,” Tai Chi and Qigong are valued as preventative practices for many health problems, including joint pain, muscle tension, anxiety, insomnia and more.  It also helps build better balance and resilience.

With Cynthia, classes are based on Integral Tai Chi developed by Dr. Roger Jahnke of the Institute of Integral Qigong and Tai Chi. This is an integration of many styles of Tai Chi. The form is designed to be easy to learn and practice, while staying relaxed and in the Qigong state where healing can happen. Class begins with a 30-minute Qigong warm up and balance practice followed by 30 minutes of Integral Tai Chi practices including drills, variations of the  Integral forms, as well as other Yang style forms, Animal Frolics and 5 element practices, ending with 10-15 minutes of  relaxation and meditation. Class meets on Zoom with recording available.

With Orit, every class begins with a warm up, followed by a walking practice and simple exercises designed to promote relaxed breathing, focused mind and a restful being. Beginner classes are open for all, and anyone can join at any time, as they are planned and structured so students are introduced to important Tai Chi principles, through symmetrical short forms and Qigong exercises. Classes meet in-person in the Fairfax studio.


Upcoming Classes


Monday - February 24, 2025 / EST
Tai Chi and Qigong
Monday 2/24/2025
11:00 am - 12:15 pm

Cynthia Maltenfort
Online
Register For Full Quarter
Wednesday - February 26, 2025 / EST
Tai Chi and Qigong
Wednesday 2/26/2025
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

Orit Dahari
Fairfax (A)

in person only - no recording
Register For Full Quarter
Monday - March 03, 2025 / EST
Tai Chi and Qigong
Monday 3/3/2025
11:00 am - 12:15 pm

Cynthia Maltenfort
Online
Register For Full Quarter
3811 Langston Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22207