2012 TAI CHI GALA WORKSHOPS!
Once registered, you can attend ANY and ALL the Tai Chi Gala workshops that you want, all weekend long!
- When you arrive, check in at the hotel front desk for your room and meals.
- Then check in at the Tai Chi Gala table. You'll get a registration badge, info and T-shirt if you ordered one.
- You'll also receive the final schedule & room location of each workshop.
- Wear your registration badge to get into whatever workshops you desire.
It's THAT simple!
Click HERE to get registered with our fast, safe and easy system!
|
|
Fri. Jun 1 |
Sat. Jun 2 |
Sun. Jun 3 |
|
6:00-7:00 am |
|
Special Qigong Workshop |
Open Meditation & Practice |
|
6:00-8:00 am |
|
Breakfast Buffet |
Breakfast Buffet |
|
8:00-9:30 am |
|
Workshops
|
Workshops |
|
10:00-11:30 am |
|
Workshops
|
Workshops |
|
12:00-1:30 pm |
|
Lunch Buffet |
Lunch Buffet |
|
1:30-3:00 pm |
Pre Check-in Kung Fu Movies |
Workshops |
Interactive Daoist Ceremony to honor Zhang San Feng & Your Past Teachers |
|
3:30-5:00 pm |
Check-in, Movies & Pool Time |
Workshops
|
Post-Gala Bagua Check-in |
|
5:00-6:30 pm |
Dinner Buffet |
Dinner Buffet |
Post-Gala Bagua Check-in |
|
7:00-10:30 pm |
Evening Entertainment |
Evening Entertainment w/ Kung Fu Style Traditional Chinese Lion Dance and Presenters' Demos! |
|
Workshop Descriptions (So many! Scroll down to view all!):
FRIDAY JUNE 1:
1:30 – 5:00 PM
Enjoy some kung fu movies on a big-screen TV in the lounge, while you wait to check in and enjoy dinner with the other attendees and presenters! You can also swim in the pool or sip a beverage in the convention center's elegant lounge.
7:00 – 10:30 PM
THEN, join us in the evening for some classy Opening Ceremonies, evening entertainment, refreshments and camaraderie. All included free with your Tai Chi Gala registration. A fun evening gathering to kick off the Tai Chi Gala. Join us and soak up the joyful & positive atmosphere!
SATURDAY JUNE 2:
6:00 – 7:00 AM
The Mysteries of Qigong Sounds and Mantras - Shifu Loretta Wollering
Perhaps several million people practice qigong worldwide. Many qigong sets use sounds or mantras to help accomplish the purpose of the qigong. But WHY are certain sounds used? For example, why does the Tai Chi Qigong set use the sounds “heng” and “hah?” And why are most people unaware of how to use those sounds for optimal results? Shifu Wollering will use the Tai Chi Qigong set (from the Chen and Yang schools) to explore these phenomena and share with you some secrets about qigong mantras that have not been taught before. This will deepen your understanding of qigong and your ability to manifest the results or energies you are seeking. This eye-opening workshop will meld scientific approaches with esoteric ones.
8:00 – 9:30 AM
A) Yin Yang Medical Qigong (Active/Intermediate) – Shifu Jianye Jiang
After researching many forms of qigong in China, Master Jiang amalgamated the most effective aspects of these qigong practices in what he calls, “Yin Yang Medical Qigong.” Much of it comes from the philosophy of the natural and martial study of White Crane, Wild Goose Qigong, and the remarkable “Fragrance” Qigong. This set is considered “intermediate” because it involves substantially more movement and stretching. This qigong will unblock and strengthen your qi meridians, develop your energy and help heal your internal organs.
B) Tamo Cheurn Tsun Faht – The Bodhidarma’s Form of Longevity – Shifu Angel Chan
The practice of this Buddhist qigong-like form is said to extend your life beyond the norm. The movements are like tai chi moves – slow, graceful, relaxed, yet filled with internal power. One third of the form will be taught and will provide enough for you to benefit from it. It is relaxing and clearing, and helps to build up your qi to extend the life force. It is also said that its practitioners begin to look younger than their years.
C) Qi Development Through Clear’s Internal Push Hands – for Combat – Shifu Richard Clear
Build Internal power & skill with this fun and powerful push hands method. This game is an effective way to greatly enhance your ability to defend yourself with the internal principles of tai chi chuan (taijiquan). Now you can discover:
~How to apply this training for internal (hidden) fa jing, tai chi Iron Body (“steel wrapped in cotton”) and other fighting principles of tai chi chuan.
~How to use the “three powers” of tai chi chuan to enhance the fighting effectiveness of your practice.
~The practical application of “sensitivity” to defend yourself.
D) Healing with Over The Counter Chinese Herbs: Bumps, Bruises and a Whole Lot More! – Shifu Dale Dugas
Shifu Dugas has an extensive background in Japanese and Chinese culture, martial arts and healing arts. He is both a registered nurse and an acupuncturist. You can benefit from his uncommonly vast knowledge of Chinese herbal medicine and healing techniques. While his techniques and specially formulated herbal preparations are sought after around the globe, you can take this opportunity to learn directly from him, here in person! Ask him about what injuries, pains or health issues you wish to relieve, and he can empower you with information that would be very difficult (or expensive) for you to otherwise obtain. Learn about natural ways to help your pain and health challenges.
10:00 – 11:30 AM
A) Mantis Sword Zhuang – Shifu Ren-Gang Wang
“Zhuang” is the foundational practice of standing, and movement of the 2-handed sword of Mantis Style kung fu. Mantis is the style that originated the use of a 2-handed sword. It thoroughly provides the ABC's of how to effectively wield a 2-handed straight sword. Participants who wish to purchase a traditionally crafted “Hao-style Northern Plum Blossom Praying Mantis 2-handed sword,” must let Master Wang know at least 3 weeks ahead of time. Call him at: (646) 279-1428 or email: dachengdao@yahoo.com. There may be a few practice swords available on a limited basis in the workshop (first come, first serve), and you are encouraged to bring your own practice “straight sword” (even if it’s a single-handed sword!). This is a rare topic explored here, as there are very few classes or workshops in this style of 2-handed sword basics.
B) Neutralization from the Yang Style Posture: “Punch, Withdraw and Push” - Shifu William C. Phillips
Learn how to neutralize this series of tai chi moves and discover two pushes that can then result from the neutralization. The workshop will also include special exercises for heightening your “intuitive” and “touch” sensitivity. Also how to properly stretch in the movement. Get a first-hand glimpse into the world of effective push hands neutralizations. Learn how to be there while not being there, and lead your opponent’s energy into nothingness while keeping yourself centered.
C) Flowing Water Tai Chi (Taiji) Fan – Shifu YuZhi Lu
Master Jianye Jiang, husband of Master Yuzhi Lu, created this set. It’s a simple 14-movement form that combines taiji movements and special fan techniques that are perfect for beginners, as it is so easy to learn and perform. It helps improve balance and flexibility, while cultivating controlled, meditative movement. This form uses the fan in large flowing movements with simple stepping patterns. Now you have the chance to experience a fan form!
D) Heurng Gung – The Fragrant Qigong – Shifu Angel Chan
Master Angel Chan will teach the significance of each of the 15 easy movements. This qigong is popular in Hong Kong and its practitioners find it to be an easy form of daily qigong that aids in enhancing one’s enlightenment and qi development. This is very pleasing and soothing to the nervous systems as your body and mind “detox,” and higher energies and vibrations are attracted to you. It is designed to refresh the mind and body and raise it to a higher vibration while clearing up blocks in physical and psychological health.
1:30 – 3:00 PM
A) Tactics to Neutralize Force from the Tibetan “Blue Heron Boxing” – Shifu John Painter
Tibetan Blue Heron Boxing is one of the oldest "Daoqiquan" martial arts brought over to the Li family of Emei Mountain, from Tibet's Lama Zurdwang Rinpoche. Unlike the Chinese Crane kung fu system, which embodies the Shaolin concepts and techniques, the Blue Heron Boxing is based on the unique and highly effective concepts of "Daoqiquan." Techniques, movements, strikes and blocks of this style of martial art appear soft and gentle, but are actually surgically precise and devastatingly effective. We will sample a variety of neutralizing techniques, including absorption blocks, lightning hand skills, and nerve point striking methods. This is a great opportunity to train with Shifu John Painter of The Gompa Center – one of the few instructors in the world qualified to teach this rare Daoqiquan system from the Li family of China's Sichuan Province. This workshop is all new material and no previous experience is required to enjoy this standalone program. Beginners – advanced are welcome.
B) Refinement of the Yang 24 Style Short Form Taijiquan – Shifu YuZhi Lu
Master Lu is specially certified to correct students and standardize their movements for the Yang 24 Short Form Taijiquan. This is essential for anyone preparing for tournaments, and is enjoyable for people who would like to master a short tai chi chuan (taijiquan) form that they can perform virtually anywhere. Anyone who teaches tai chi (taijiquan) should take this workshop to get correction, or at least, fresh perspectives on teaching. It’s the most common tai chi form practiced in the world today and is what most beginner tai chi students first learn. If you already know the Yang traditional form, you can pick up the Yang 24 Form in just a few minutes!
C) How to Use Your Qi for Internal Cultivation – Shifu Donald Wong
Here you will learn the special ways to cultivate your qi to higher levels and how to use it to “detox” yourself physically and energetically. Learn how to create a “qi ball,” and begin to experience the rare use of martial “fa jing” energy of qi. The more esoteric healing methods of near and far qi for self-healing, and projecting energy, will be explored. Master Wong will share this with you while explaining how this all works from his own beliefs and perspectives. It’s great way to explore rare concepts with viewpoints you (or your qigong/tai chi students!) may never have encountered before. Empower your understanding, explanation and practice of qi techniques in this workshop.
D) Shaker Room OPEN for your quiet study, meditation or prayer. Silence please!!
3:30 – 5:00 PM
A) Cultivating and Feeling Your Qi: Using Special Postures, Qigong & The Tai Chi Ruler – Shifu Donald Wong
Even beginners can enjoy this workshop that helps you intensify the feelings of what the Chinese call “qi,” or “life force energy.” It is the core of all Chinese medicine, health and martial arts. This workshop will use “wuji” posture and 4 very special postures, exercises to loosen you up, and special ways to open the meridians in your arms. You’ll even learn a short Tai Chi Ruler and Qigong set! Master Wong will be lecturing and helping you to optimize your positions throughout the entire workshop. It’s also a great chance for you to get your questions answered.
B) Using the concept of Circles in the Martial Arts: Applied Self-Defense Using Circles – Shifu Dale Dugas
The masters of old are slowly disappearing. One thing that these high masters attained was their unique ability to see and use the recurring patterns of geometry hidden in all martial arts practices. These “patterns” can be distilled down into special circular movements. In fact, it is said, that if you understand and practice these few circular movements, you can attain a high level of martial skill. This is also a highly effective way for you to immediately understand and apply self-defense techniques without having to memorize lots of forms or applications. You are invited to this opportunity that will open your mind and simplify your understanding of how to use the Chinese internal arts for self-defense. These drills will be presented in a respectful and non-aggressive atmosphere. All are welcome.
C) The Dragon Movements of Wu Mei Pai Kung Fu – Shifu Ken Lo
Wu Mei Pai Kung Fu is one of the most “internal” kung fu styles. It does not depend on brute force or speed, as a woman created it – martial/military scholar and Buddhist nun, Wu Mei. It is a practice that helps to continuously heal and improve your energy the more you do it, instead of injuring you later on. In honor of 2012 being the Year of the Dragon according to the ancient Chinese calendar, and to welcome in its powerful and abundant energy, Master Lo will teach the impressive “dragon movements” of this kung fu art. Both the movements as well as the martial applications will be revealed to you in this workshop. It is compatible with whatever your interest and experience in tai chi, xingyi, bagua, kung fu, etc.
D) OUTSIDE COURTYARD – Informal practice with Shifu David Ritchie's past Yang Broadsword students. Form will not be taught to beginners, but beginners are welcome to play along with the participants practicing together here.
7:00 – 10:30 PM
Evening Entertainment, Sunday Previews, Friendship Demos and Traditional Chinese Lion Dance from Yee's Hung Ga Kung Fu — Refreshments Included! A wonderful chance to socialize and enjoy a friendly time together!
SUNDAY JUNE 3:
6:00 – 7:00 AM
Latham-Troy and Shaker Room are open for your morning meditation and practice needs. Please be respectful and maintain silence. If you wish to discuss or socialize, feel free to do so in the main lobby. Thanks! Early breakfast may also be open.
8:00 – 9:30 AM
A) The Wedge: A Master Key to Your Defensive Skills - Shifu John Painter
The wedge, or "triangular shape principle," found in Li family Daoqiquan internal arts is a master key to neutralizing almost any type strike or kick, no matter from what martial arts system or style. This simple but profound truth allows you to effortlessly guide blows harmlessly away while it puts you into the ideal position for a counter strike, push, lock or takedown. Shifu John Painter will guide you through the basics of this amazing principle and show you how to find or apply it to your own personal arts of taijiquan (tai chi), xingyiquan, baguazhang or any other form of self-defense tactics. No previous martial arts experience is necessary for this eye-opening and informative workshop.
B) Topic on Hung Gar – Shifu Sharif Bey
To be announced – stay tuned!
C) Dachengquan (Yiquan-Influenced) Push Hands – Shifu Ren-Gang Wang
The idea is a little different from tai chi push hands, so we will first learn some rarely known standing foot work, walking techniques, one hand use, double hands application, then add the walking technique with double hands push hands. This is a great intro to rock-solid Chinese internal arts principles for beginners and intermediate practitioners alike. Advanced tai chi push hands players can slip these techniques into their push hands arsenal and use them in push hands contests to have an edge on skills and knowledge that other tai chi push hands players don’t have.
D) Qi Development Through Clear’s Internal Push Hands – for Health – Shifu Richard Clear
(Held Outdoors in the Courtyard) This game is a powerful and fun way to greatly enhance your ability to build, feel and manipulate qi. In this workshop you will learn how to apply this skill for health and self-healing. You will also learn to train the tai chi principle of “The 3 Powers” in internal push hands and how to apply it to your tai chi set (taijiquan) for great health benefits. Additional benefits of this practice include: greater bone density & muscle mass, increased cellular oxygen levels, lower blood pressure & heart rate, strengthened mind-intent & cultivating psychic ability for advanced healing.
10:00 – 11:30 AM
A) Seated 8 Section Brocade “Ba Duan Jing” – Shifu Jianye Jiang
This qigong is one of the most popular forms practiced in China today. It comes from the Song Dynasty of over 200 years ago. It requires no special equipment, very little space – making it ideal for apartment dwellers and travelers – and is easily practiced by the young and old alike. It is the perfect qigong to teach to students, friends or family members who are disabled or use a wheelchair. You can also do some of it on an airplane, train or bus! Based on the movements of the turtle and snake, it combines meditation with the stretching of the head, neck, arms, legs and torso. It’s a simple and easy way to improve your overall health, prevent various diseases and help treat existing health conditions.
B) Neutralizations of “Sneaky” Elbow Techniques – Shifu William C. Phillips
Experienced push hands players know how to trap or push through your elbow to off-balance you. In a more aggressive scenario, martial arts applications that use the elbow are very destructive. Few people know how to counter these techniques and maintain their center. Here you can learn how to deal with these attempts with nearly effortless neutralizations, while also using the opponent’s energy to create your own counter pushes. Special exercises to increase your sensitivity and ability to handle these techniques will be revealed.
C) Cha Dao: The Chinese Art of Tea ($15 cash materials charge) – Shifu Ken Lo
While you may have heard of the Japanese tea ceremony, few are privy to the original Chinese Tea Ceremony, which is very different. Tea Master Sifu Ken Lo will serve extremely rare teas from his personal collection of exquisite Chinese teas, not available on the market. He will also display original calligraphy, paintings and read original poems to open your senses and relax you. This is a very meditative journey that will leave you with a special feeling too difficult to describe in words. It is limited to the first 60 people. Please present $15 cash at the workshop door to cover your consumption of these very rare and expensive teas. Others not paying may observe only (not sitting at the table). Space is limited.
1:30 – 3:00 PM
Daoist (Taoist) Closing Ceremony — w/ Shifu Loretta Wollering & Tai Chi Gala Staff
*SPECIAL FOR SUNDAY* You can take part in a real Taoist (Daoist) ceremony to honor the memory of Great Teacher/Founder of the art of taijiquan, Zhang San Feng, and the founder of the original Zhang San Feng Festival of America – Master Jou Tsung Hwa, as well as any of YOUR teachers who have passed on. People of all faiths, beliefs, philosophies, arts and lineages are WELCOME to either participate or simply just observe. You may bring along any symbols, photos, etc., of any past teachers *YOU* wish to also honor and remember. These will be placed on a memorial "altar." Everyone is welcome here.
NOTE: Tai Chi Gala attendees can request performing a role in this closing ceremony! If you would like to play an active role in the proceedings of this Daoist event, please EMAIL: TAICHIGALA@YAHOO.COM. Positions are only open to folks who have registered, and are only available on a first come, first serve basis. Shifu Loretta Wollering will guide you in this event, based on her experience and Daoist teachings from Master Jou Tsung Hwa.
_________________________________
MONDAY – FRIDAY; JUNE 4-8:
Dr. Painter's Gathering of the Baguazhang Circle: Exploring "Fire Palm"
(Starts 9 AM; Monday June 4)
** Gathering of The Circle 2012: One of the Largest & Longest Baguazhang Gatherings in the WORLD! **
In Jiulong Baguazhang we have 8 "palms" of energy for health and martial art. Each year we explore one of these palms at our annual "Gathering of the Circle" in Albany, New York, following the Tai Chi Gala
Aspect 1: Fire Palm Qigong
(Balances the Heart & Small Intestine acupuncture meridians and qi life force.)
“Fire energy” is said to develop a strong clear character. Fire palm is used in deeper qigong study of Daoist self-cultivation practices to balance the fiery emotional energies of mind and spirit. The practice relaxes your nervous system, creates a concept of clear, strong action and promotes a very decisive nature.
This energy also contributes to a sense of order and stability by purifying the explosive emotional energies of the Heart (xin). It can draw off excess emotional heat to reduce feelings of irritability and restlessness. The capacity of the Small Intestine energy to dampen the excess fire of the Heart helps to restore your spirit to a state of calm and a feeling of inner grounding or centeredness.
Aspect 2: Fire Palm “Zhandouli” Li Zhang = Fire palm
(The Martial Aspect: Develops fa-jin and magnetic body skills)
Explore the Yijing (I-Ching) concept of yang’s bursting-upward energy and yin’s clinging energy as related to “fire palm.” Fire's energy is crystal clear like the air on a hot summer day. It is direct and uncomplicated, bursting upward from the earth as a volcanic eruption; primal, elegantly simple and without affectation. Fire palm strikes send maximum fluid shock into the opponent causing internal damage with minimal movement of the subject. This strike is used to create internal shocking force and is often called fa-jin or fa-li. A strike of this type, when executed correctly, will drop an opponent in his tracks instead of sending him backward.
Aspect 3: Moon Sword Qigong Set and Xingyi Jian
First we will examine the five moves of Li Family Xingyi-Jian (“form of intention” sword) as a martial skill followed by learning to use these moves to channel the electromagnetic qi energy of the full moon through a sword directly into your body’s energetic systems. This rare, almost extinct method of the Li Family is drawn from Daoist (Taoist) and Tibetan shamanistic sources. Using a metal sword like an antenna, you will learn to use the reflected light of the full moon to create an amazing internal transformation of hard-to-flexible energy. It is said of those who can perform this qigong set, that the sword “comes alive in their hands like a coiling dragon.” This method balances and calms overly aggressive energy.
Note: The timing of this program is ideal, as there is a full moon on June 4, 2012!
# # #