The Cotswold School of Tai Chi, located in Cheltenham, is dedicated to helping individuals maintain and improve their overall health and well-being through the ancient Chinese systems of Qi Gong and Chen Style Tai Chi. Led by Valerie Ward, students at Cotswold Tai Chi learn to cultivate relaxation and focused attention, rather than straining and exerting themselves.
The school offers classes that cater to a wide range of physical abilities and welcomes both beginners and experienced practitioners. Each student works at their own level, but beginners can expect to progress quickly with the support and guidance of more experienced group members. Most sessions include instruction on the tai chi 'Form', which is a sequence of movements that takes several minutes to complete. While the Form may seem complex and daunting at first, students gradually become more familiar with it over time.
At Cotswold Tai Chi, the focus is on mindful movement and integrating the entire body as one unit. This approach leads to improvements in balance, coordination, flexibility, and strength, promoting harmony for the body, mind, and spirit. While learning the sequences of the Form is a fun and interesting challenge, it is not the most important aspect of the practise. The school emphasises the cultivation of a mindful mindset and the integration of the body as the primary goals of tai chi practise.
Cotswold Tai Chi is proud to be affiliated with the Three Counties Chen Taijiquan Association, which is headed by Master Chen Yingjun. The school also provides a 'taster' of the Silk Reeling technique and The 19 Form from Grandmaster Chen Xiaowang, father of Master Chen Yingjun. This connexion to esteemed masters adds depth and authenticity to the teaching at Cotswold Tai Chi.
Classes are offered at various locations, including Milton under Wychwood on Monday mornings, Bourton on the Water on Tuesday mornings, Broadway on Tuesday evenings, and Evesham on Wednesday mornings. Beginners are always welcome and encouraged to join. The school also hosts workshops throughout the year, such as the Summer Garden workshops in Barton on the Heath, which cover topics like Tai Chi Principles and the Laojia Part 1 intensive. These workshops provide an opportunity for participants to delve deeper into their tai chi practise.
To find out more about the Cotswold School of Tai Chi and to book a class or workshop, interested individuals can visit their social media pages or club directories. The school can also be reached by phone at 07779 746346.