Yoga / Tai Chi / Tang Soo Do
Yoga
Yoga is an ancient art based on a harmonizing system of development for the body, mind, and spirit. The continued practice of yoga will lead you to a sense of peace and well-being, and also a feeling of being at one with their environment. This is a simple definition.The practice of yoga makes the body strong and flexible; it also improves the functioning of the respiratory, circulatory, digestive, and hormonal systems. Yoga brings about emotional stability and clarity of mind.
Think of this practice as being the means and tools to realign and rebalance your body on a regular basis. You take control and you can then become your body's mechanic! Because your body is finely tuned you will find that your chances for injuries and illnesses will drop as you are in a much more attuned state. Prevention and care is by far the best medicine there is. It all comes down to balance.
The cost of the classes are $55 for a month of unlimited ($45 for seniors), $40 for a 4-class card (good for one
month) or $12 for a drop-in.
FAQ'S
Is yoga a religion? No, it's a philosophy. The physical and psychological benefits of yoga are real and don't discriminate on the bases of race, religion, gender or any other way people categorize themselves.
What if I've had an injury or recent surgery? Depending on how serious it is, you may want to consult with your physician before starting yoga or any exercise program. Tell your yoga teacher about your condition so he/she can suggest ways you can adapt the yoga poses to your abilities.
Can yoga help women through pregnancy and delivery? Yoga is a great way to keep fit during pregnancy. Even if they have never done yoga before, pregnant women find that practicing the simplest poses improves their fitness and well-being, while the relaxation and breathing techniques help them to handle the whole process, from pregnancy to birth and afterward, with greater assurance and calm. In particular, yoga contributes to an easier pregnancy and delivery by strengthening the pelvic area and easing back strain.
How often should I go to a yoga class? Ideally, at least two to three times per week. Some people make progress by coming once a week, and many people get so motivated by yoga they come nearly every day. It depends on the individual and his or her needs.
What should I wear or bring to class? Wear anything that is comfortable that allows you to move and stretch. Many people find that shorts or loose-fitting pants and a t-shirt work fine. Some wear leotards or tights. Yoga classes are done in bare feet or with socks on, so you'll be removing your shoes before class begins. Try not to eat for at least 1 hour prior to class. It is much easier to do the postures on an empty stomach and you will feel better afterwards.
Do I need to use a special yoga mat? We urge our students to use yoga mats so they'll have more stability when doing the various postures. If you sign up for one of our class packages, you can use a complimentary rental mat. Many students prefer to have their own mats.
Must I pre-register before coming to class? No, just come to our studio about 10 minutes before class starts and write your name on the class sign-in sheet. If it's your first time, you'll need to complete an application/waiver form before attending class.
Tai Chi
What is Chen Tai Chi Chuan?Chen style Tai Chi is the original Tai Chi. It was created in the 1600's by Chen Wangting, as a high level martial art. Later, Tai Chi Chaun was discovered to have a great number of health benefits, including slowing the heart rate, lowering blood pressure, and relieving stress.
What will you learn?
In the Introduction Class, you will learn the Chen 18 posture form. This form was created by Grand-master Chen Zhenglei. Master Yang Yang explained that form movement served three fundamental purposes:
1. To nurture and build energy;You will also learn a sole push-hand exercise and 10 simple silk reeling exercises. All were created to improve your health, flexibility, and body movement. Those who wish to continue can learn the long form (74 postures), push- hand skills with a partner, over 30 silk reeling exercises, sword, and much more.
2. To exercise and continually improve the mind/body connection;
3. To teach the practitioner the mechanics of efficient body movement.
What is Chi kung?
Simply put, chi kung is an exercise designed to gather energy. They coordinate your body's movement with your breathing. All Tai Chi is chi kung, but not all chi kung is Tai Chi.
Who is your instructor?
Jerry Whitten began studying martial arts in 1960. In 1967, he was stationed at Osan A.F.B. Korea. While in Korea, Jerry made his lst degree black belt in Tang Soo Do Karate. He continued in Tang Soo Do and today is a 6th degree black belt. During the 1980's, he became interested in Tai Chi, learning the Yang 24. In 1998, began studying Chen style with Master Yang Yang. He has attended workshops with Grandmasters Chen Xiaowang, Chen Xiaoxing, Chen Zhenglei, and many more.
Tang Soo Do
What is Tang Soo Do?"Tang"means the Tang Dynasty of China (617-907 AD). This was the heyday of martial arts. "Soo"means hand, and implies defense. "Do"means way of life or art. Tang Soo Do has a history of 2000 years, in Korea. It is a method of empty hand and foot fighting. Tang Soo Do is based on the principles of yielding, circular motion and penetration. It is a defensive martial art and should never be used violently. Tang Soo Do techniques include kicks, hand strikes and blocks, joint locks and throws. Tang Soo Do is not a sport, but a traditional martial art. Tang Soo Do is an excellent exercise, using the whole body. Tang Soo Do training will improve flexibility, coordination, strength and weight control. A Tang Soo Do practitioner's ultimate goal is not only to possess excellent techniques, but to develop and perfect one's character as well.
CLASSESChildren and adults learn differently. Our concern is to give the best instruction possible. That is why we serperate children and adults.
Tuesday and Thursday
Ages 13 and up
7:00-8:30pm
The Instructor
Master Jerry Whitten began his martial arts training in 1960, at the age of 13, in Judo. He later studied Sil Lum Kung Fu. While in the U.S. Air Force, Master Whitten briefly studied Shotokan Karate and Taw Kwan Do. In 1967, he was stationed at Osan A.F.B. Korea. Here he began studying Tang Soo Do with Jae Chul Shin, Chuck Norris's first instructor. Master Whitten has continued Tang Soo Do, earning a 6th degree black belt. Over the last 50 years, he has also studied Okinawan weapons, Hapkido Kenjitsu, and Tai Chi Chaun.
