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Tai Chi

For centuries Chinese people have practiced the life-enhancing art of tai chi and the internal martial arts of pakua and hsing-i, and today millions more around the world are joining them.

Tai chi is a unique form of "moving meditation" that calms the mind, relaxes the body and strengthens the spirit. Much of tai chi is practiced slowly and gently, ideal for people of all ages and health conditions.

Though most people take up tai chi for the tremendous health benefits, others are intrigued by the fact the style is actually a highly-effective martial art. Emphasis is placed on cultivating "chi," or internal energy, as opposed to simply developing muscle mass and brute force.

It is this focus on chi cultivation that makes tai chi so highly effective for cultivating good health and for developing unparalleled martial arts skills.

The Peaceful Dragon is one of the few modern schools that can teach pure tai chi. Whether you choose this arts for health or self-defense, or both, you'll quickly discover how much calmer and more at peace you feel.

Pakua

Although not as well known as tai chi, pakua is an equally effective internal art, focusing on circular movements and methods of meditation and qigong and is a perfect complement to tai chi training. Much of pakua is practiced slowly and gently, making both styles ideal for people of all ages and health conditions.

Great Grandmaster Chang Tung Sheng demonstrates a Hsing-I Chuan form.

The Peaceful Dragon offers rare classes in authentic pakua, passed on by Grandmaster DeMaria. Master Eric Sbarge also studied pakua with Master Park Bok Nam, an internationally renowned pakua teacher who is the top disciple of the late Lu Shui Tian.

If you are taking tai chi for health and stress reduction, pakua, with its sophisticated breathing, chi kung and circle walking, is a perfect complement to it. If you are interested in cultivating high-level fighting skills, you'll benefit greatly from the speed and efficiency of pakua regardless of which style you now take.

If you want to understand the depths of Taoist philosophy, pakua represents the essence of it.

Hsing-I

Hsing-I is based on the 5 elements: metal, water, wood, fire and earth. In this art form one goes directly into the opponent to attack, and comes out from the attack on guard. Even though hsing-i looks like an external art, it is an internal art. Many call it 'The Bridge Art' because it is on the line between an external and internal style.

Read more about pakua and hsing-i at Grandmaster DeMaria's site.

The Peaceful Dragon's Approach to Tai Chi, Pakua and Hsing-I

Our traditional and authentic approach to teaching includes theories and principles, not just forms and movements. Instruction is personalized to meet your interests. Master Eric Sbarge, Director and Head Instructor at The Peaceful Dragon is a 2nd generation student of the late Ch'ang Dung Sheng, the renowned tai chi master and undefeated Chinese national martial arts champion.

The Peaceful Dragon is one of the few modern schools that can teach pure tai chi, pakua and hsing-i. Whether you choose these arts for health or self-defense, or both, you'll quickly discover how much calmer and more at peace you feel

Tai chi, pakua and hsing-i are suitable for people of all ages and health conditions. And as with all the arts taught here, the rewards are great if you train diligently and sincerely.

At The Peaceful Dragon You'll Find:

• Personalized instruction in qigong, forms, breathing methods, meditation methods, push hands, weapons forms, self defense applications, sparring, conditioning and more
• Classes suitable for all ages and physical conditions
• Classes 7 days a week in clean, spacious studios with showers, saunas, and dressing rooms available
• Highly motivated fellow students to train with

With Tai Chi, Pakua and Hsing-i you can:
• Reverse many of the negative effects of aging
• Experience greater energy and vitality
• Relieve chronic health problems and strengthen your body against disease
• Master art of living in balance and harmony
• Gain self-defense skills of the highest level

"Since beginning Tai Chi I generally feel more relaxed and calm. I am also achieving improved balance and posture"
Suzanne Hart,
Homemaker

"I have been a student for 5 years and I feel like I have not physically aged in that time. I feel stronger, healthier and more flexible."
Sam Ilardo,
Treasurer

"I think it is important to choose a teacher carefully. The teachers at The Peaceful Dragon are excellent in terms of Tai Chi knowledge."
Charles Butler,
Consultant