Discover Your New Life With Tai Chi

Learn Tai Chi from the comfort of your home with our easy to follow videos. You will learn Form, Push Hands, Weapons and applications.

Get bonus access to our global online community with members like yourself.

What Is Tai Chi?

Online Tai Chi Lessons

A Glimpse of Tai Chi History

Tai Chi, also known as Taiji, is a Chinese martial art that dates back centuries. Its origins can be traced to the 17th century, when it was developed by Zhang Sanfeng, a Taoist monk. Rooted in traditional Chinese philosophy, Tai Chi combines graceful movements, meditation, and deep breathing to cultivate harmony within the body and mind.

The Core Principles of Tai Chi

At the heart of Tai Chi lies a set of core principles that guide practitioners toward achieving a harmonious existence. These principles encompass the integration of opposites, the cultivation of balance, and the unification of mind and body. Through deliberate, slow-motion movements, individuals learn to flow seamlessly from one posture to another, fostering a sense of tranquility and self-awareness.

What Are The Health Benefits Of Tai Chi?

Health Benefits of Tai Chi

Flexibility and Balance Enhancement

Tai Chi's gentle and controlled movements involve a wide range of motion, leading to improved flexibility over time. These exercises also engage various muscle groups, contributing to better balance and stability. Regular practice has been shown to reduce the risk of falls, particularly in older adults, which is crucial for maintaining independence and preventing injuries.

Muscle Strength and Endurance

Despite its seemingly slow pace, Tai Chi is a weight-bearing exercise that gradually strengthens muscles as you move through its sequences. The isometric contractions involved in holding certain positions help build muscle endurance and enhance overall body strength. This low-impact nature of Tai Chi makes it suitable for people of all fitness levels.

Cardiovascular Health

Engaging in Tai Chi can have positive effects on cardiovascular health by promoting better blood circulation and regulating blood pressure. The rhythmic breathing patterns incorporated into the practice enhance lung capacity and oxygenation of tissues, supporting a healthier heart.

Pain Management

Chronic pain conditions, such as arthritis and lower back pain, can be alleviated through the regular practice of Tai Chi. The gentle movements improve joint flexibility and reduce stiffness, while the mind-body connection cultivated during practice helps individuals manage pain perception more effectively.

Stress Reduction and Relaxation

Modern life's demands often lead to stress and anxiety, taking a toll on mental health. Tai Chi's mindful approach encourages relaxation, helping practitioners alleviate stress by focusing on the present moment. The rhythmic movements and controlled breathing create a meditative state that reduces cortisol levels and promotes a sense of calm.

Cognitive Benefits

Tai Chi is not only a physical exercise but also a mental workout. The concentration required to perform the movements with precision enhances cognitive function and mental clarity. Research suggests that regular Tai Chi practice can contribute to better memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.

Emotional Well-being

The harmonious blend of movement and mindfulness in Tai Chi can have a positive impact on emotional well-being. The practice fosters self-awareness, emotional regulation, and a sense of inner peace. As a result, practitioners often report reduced symptoms of depression and increased overall life satisfaction.

Flexibility and Balance Enhancement

Tai Chi's gentle and controlled movements involve a wide range of motion, leading to improved flexibility over time. These exercises also engage various muscle groups, contributing to better balance and stability. Regular practice has been shown to reduce the risk of falls, particularly in older adults, which is crucial for maintaining independence and preventing injuries.

Muscle Strength and Endurance

Despite its seemingly slow pace, Tai Chi is a weight-bearing exercise that gradually strengthens muscles as you move through its sequences. The isometric contractions involved in holding certain positions help build muscle endurance and enhance overall body strength. This low-impact nature of Tai Chi makes it suitable for people of all fitness levels.

Cardiovascular Health

Engaging in Tai Chi can have positive effects on cardiovascular health by promoting better blood circulation and regulating blood pressure. The rhythmic breathing patterns incorporated into the practice enhance lung capacity and oxygenation of tissues, supporting a healthier heart.

Pain Management

Chronic pain conditions, such as arthritis and lower back pain, can be alleviated through the regular practice of Tai Chi. The gentle movements improve joint flexibility and reduce stiffness, while the mind-body connection cultivated during practice helps individuals manage pain perception more effectively.

Stress Reduction and Relaxation 

Modern life's demands often lead to stress and anxiety, taking a toll on mental health. Tai Chi's mindful approach encourages relaxation, helping practitioners alleviate stress by focusing on the present moment. The rhythmic movements and controlled breathing create a meditative state that reduces cortisol levels and promotes a sense of calm.

Cognitive Benefits 

Tai Chi is not only a physical exercise but also a mental workout. The concentration required to perform the movements with precision enhances cognitive function and mental clarity. Research suggests that regular Tai Chi practice can contribute to better memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.

Emotional Well-being 

The harmonious blend of movement and mindfulness in Tai Chi can have a positive impact on emotional well-being. The practice fosters self-awareness, emotional regulation, and a sense of inner peace. As a result, practitioners often report reduced symptoms of depression and increased overall life satisfaction.

What Are The Health Benefits Of Tai Chi?

Health Benefits of Tai Chi

How Does Tai Chi Work?

How does Tai Chi work

Discovering the Gentle Power of Tai Chi Moves

Ever wondered how a seemingly simple practice could pack such a punch? Well, that's the magic of Tai Chi for you. Its movements might be slow and deliberate, but don't be fooled – they're like a secret key that unlocks your body's potential.

Picture this: with each mindful stretch, your joints and muscles get a gentle workout. It's like giving them a little nudge, whispering, "Hey there, wake up!" And guess what? This wake-up call doesn't just happen on the surface; it's an inside-out job. Yep, that's the Tai Chi way – strengthening you from the inside so you can shine on the outside.

The Posture Prescription: Standing Tall, Feeling Great

Now, let's talk posture. You might not think much about how you stand, but studies spill the beans – good posture can do wonders for your mood. Imagine feeling more positive and upbeat, just by standing a little taller. It's like an instant mood lifter!

And you know what Tai Chi brings to the table? A masterclass in posture perfection. The training involves shifting your weight gracefully, almost like a dance. This not only boosts your balance – it's a secret weapon against those unexpected tumbles. So if you've ever dreamed of strutting confidently without the fear of falling flat on your face, Tai Chi might just be your ticket.

Zhan Zhuang Practice

Private Lessons

At home Tai Chi training

Online Training

with Shifu Don

Group Classes

with Shifu Don

snake creeps down

All Upcoming Classes

Standing meditation
Private Lessons

Contact for availability

Tai Chi Qi Gong
Monday Group Tai Chi

Mondays @ 6:30pm - 60min

Tai Chi Toe Kick
Saturday Group Tai Chi

Saturdays @ 8:30am - 60min

How do Classes Work?

How do classes work?

You make the decision to Discover Your New Life with Tai Chi, Decide on a class that fits your schedule, Sign up and attend your class or classes.

What equipment will I need?

One of the great things about Tai Chi is that it doesn't require the need of any special equipment.

What do I need to wear?

You will want to wear comfortable clothes. Clothes that you normally wear to work out.

How long are classes?

Most of our classes are set for 1 hour. If you would like a longer class, you can always book a private lesson and schedule it for longer than an hour.

Can I learn Online?

Of course you can. We offer an online training program designed just for that.

Pricing & Memberships

Online Membership

$4.99 - $24.99

This is our most popular option. This membership option is for those students who would like to learn Tai Chi at their own pace with online video lessons. Get started with Stage 1 for only $4.99 a month. If you wish to continue to Stage 2 and beyond the cost is only $24.99 a month.

Single Class Membership

$60

This is our most popular in-person option. This membership option is for those students who would like to come to a group class once a week. This is a great option if you are local to the Greenville-Spartanburg area and would like to learn in a group.

Private Lessons

$40 - $100

We offer this option if you would like to book a private lesson. Private lessons are for those who want to advance quicker in their training.

Tai Chi reviews

Judy Horning

“I began Tai Chi this year with the hope that this could benefit rheumatoid arthritis. Don is a very knowledgeable, patient and enthusiastic teacher. As I begin to learn this art I am amazed at the increase in strength, confidence and calmness I’m having. In the beginning I was skeptical of the benefits, viewing it is slow and boring in comparison to gymnastics, as was my background. I have learned to not underestimate the work out! Tai chi has turned out to be exactly what I needed. It has also provided emotional healing for me. Tai chi is truly an amazing art. I am so thankful I found a New Life Tai Chi!"

Christoper Laverty

"Shifu Don is an excellent teacher! He’s knowledgeable, engaging, and knows how to explain information in an easily digestible manner. New Life Kung Fu is an excellent place to develop your mind and body!"

Nancy Wolnowsky

"Don is a great instructor! I took Tai Chi many years ago in another state but something was missing...the WHY of what I was doing. The art seems to be about slow graceful moves, but Don showed me that it's really a defense practice! His teaching style shows and explains how each move is working against an opponent. What appears to be a gentle sweep of the arms is really slamming your opponent on the ground... practice in slow motion! I love it! I've gained strength, balance, and coordination! It's harder than you think. Give it a try! Thanks, Don!"