SPRINGFIELD, Vt. – There’s a new, simpler tai chi form that beginners are learning in China, and it has come to Springfield.
Bafa wubu (bā fǎ wǔ bù) means “eight methods, five steps,” and it breaks down more complex tai chi movements into smaller pieces that are easier to follow for many students. The first part of the form is stationary, and it can even be done while seated.
Come to the Unitarian Universalist Meetinghouse in Springfield, Vt., 21 Fairground Road, at 10 a.m., for eight Tuesdays, April 7-May 26, to learn from and practice with Tai Chi Vermont-certified teacher Jo Bregnard. Classes are 60 minutes and will also be livestreamed via Zoom for those who can’t make it to the meetinghouse. To learn more and sign up for online access, visit studio.jobregnard.com/product/92447.
In China, bafa wubu is now taught as the standard beginner form. It includes quintessential tai chi movements, and it focuses on the core principles of the practice: deliberate weight transference, healthy posture, relaxed breathing, body awareness, and steps that improve balance and agility.
Sponsored by Senior Solutions, these free classes will include warm-ups and cool-downs, with practice both standing and seated. If being on your feet for an extended time is challenging for you, you can participate right from your chair. No prior tai chi experience is necessary. Can’t make it live? All who sign up will have access to recordings after class so you can practice on your own schedule.
Please wear comfortable clothing and flat, closed-heel and -toe shoes for practice, and have a full water bottle with you. Contact Bregnard if you have any additional questions by emailing jo@jobregnard.com.
Tai Chi Vermont is a nonprofit corporation dedicated to providing safe and effective tai chi instructor training throughout the state. Learn more about Tai Chi Vermont by visiting www.taichivermont.org.