I began my fitness training for certification in February 1999, focussing on general fitness and kickboxing. While training, I started working with a Tai Chi instructor and discovered a profound positive effect on my workouts and overall health. I began incorporating many Tai Chi Principles into my fitness classes and students were becoming more interested in learning Tai Chi than pushups.
I continued Tai Chi with several instructors, learning primarily Yang style form and Qigong techniques, as well as in depth meditation. Instructing began with several private students, and quickly spread to organized classes in the area. As more studies were published acknowledging the benefits of Tai Chi for seniors, the inquiries for senior classes started. I became a certified instructor in Tai Chi for Arthritis, under Dr. Paul Lam’s Tai Chi for Health program, recognized internationally and the only program officially endorsed by The Arthritis Foundation.
As a member of the American Tai Chi and Qigong Association, I continue to practice and utilize many resources for the many levels of interest in Tai Chi techniques. I appeared on WTNH’s Connecticut Style program introducing Tai Chi to their viewers. I have attended workshops and seminars continuously over the years in several different styles and aspects of Tai Chi and Qigong to be able to further understanding and instruction.
One of my areas of focus is what I call “Everyday Tai Chi.” Very early in my first year of fitness instruction, I learned I was good at simple explanations and working with beginners and “reluctant” students, those who were not entirely sold on the idea of exercise or who were looking for any reason to quit. The same held true as I encountered many students who just came along to try a Tai Chi class because their friend talked them into it. Thus began my “you too can meditate!” approach by finding easy everyday examples of how to de-stress and use Tai Chi to make their lives better and healthier.
I currently hold a 2nd Dan Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do, and work with martial arts students using Tai Chi principles to improve their technique. My classes range from private students to groups, teens to seniors, retirement homes to corporate settings. I focus on Yang shortened form, individual Yang postures, meditative breathing, Qigong, physical and mental balance, health and wellness, and general philosophy such as Yin and Yang for additional perspective. Also, I incorporate some of the Tai Chi Chuan martial art aspects for those who find it interesting or helpful to their practice.
For more information or to register for Tai Chi please contact Ann at 203-606-9354