FAQ

Lisa at the KenwoodWhat are your qualifications?

  • certified instructor for Tai Chi for Arthritis
  • member of the National Qigong Alliance, NAMASTA and the Living Tao.
  • 35 years of teaching experience, as a Montessori teacher and art teacher.
  • 16 years studying and practicing Tai Chi and Qigong
  • a Master’s in Human Development
  • 6 years teaching Tai Chi and Qigong

What is Tai Chi? (or taiji)

Tai Chi translates from Chinese as “supreme ultimate”. Tai Chi originates in China in the 13th century AD as a blend of martial arts and sitting meditation. The Taoist perspective was significant to the culture of China for many years and influenced the development of Tai Chi. “Tao” means a path for living in harmony with the natural world. Tai Chi movements are inspired by animals, birds and clouds and are flexible, graceful and effortless. These organic movements cultivate qi or life energy.

What is Qigong?

Qigong (prononced chee gung) is a holistic system of healing from China from about 3000 years ago.
Qi is the Chinese word for life energy. Qi needs to flow smoothly in our body or it gets stagnated and we feel it as pain or sickness.
Gong means the work. Qigong are postures and movements that help you direct the flow of qi and help improve health of mind and body and spirit.

What is the difference between Tai Chi and Qigong?

Tai Chi is a continuous flow of graceful movements creating a slow meditative dance. Qigong uses postures and simple movements that are repeated and do not flow from one to the other. Qigong is often easier to learn.

What are the benefits of Tai Chi and Qigong?

  • Enhances aerobic power.
  • Improves muscular strength, flexibility and balance.
  • Benefits people with hypertension, arthritis and coronary artery disease.
  • Prevents falls in older adults.
  • Decreases tension, depression, anxiety and mood disturbances.
  • Enhances the immune and endocrine functions.
  • Reduces hypertension by lowering blood pressure.
  • Improves flexibility of the knees.
  • Requires no high technology or special facility.
  • Can be done anywhere - indoors or out.
  • Is inexpensive.
  • Significantly improves symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis.
  • Is appropriate for all ages and fitness levels.
  • Uses the mind to command the body movements and abdominal breathing to facilitate energy flow.
  • Is an aid to improved concentration and focus.
  • Tai Chi can be accomplished standing or sitting.

from the American Journal of Medicine and Sports, Vol 3, number II, March/April 2001

Can I do Tai Chi and Qigong?

Of course. In my classes you do what is comfortable. Tai Chi & Qigong are exercises almost anyone can do standing or sitting. The combination of movement and relaxation is an effective exercise for all ages. Tai Chi and Qigong are effective by themselves and in conjunction with other treatments.

What should I wear to class?

You do not need any special clothes or shoes to to practice Tai Chi. Wear loose, comfortable clothes that allow you to move and breathe easily. Shoes with low heels and flexible soles, barefoot or socks are fine depending on where the class is held.

Doing tai chi with Lisa SchlingermanIs Tai Chi a safe exercise for me?

Tai Chi is a safe and gentle exercise for people of all ages and most physical conditions. When practicing do not attempt any movements that feel uncomfortable or are painful. If you are unsure about taking Tai Chi ask your doctor. Also tell the teacher about any physical challenges you have.

Where have you taught Tai Chi?

  • Benedictine Center, Maplewood, MN
  • Villa Maria Retreat Center, Frontenac, MN
  • Catholic Eldercare, Minneapolis,
  • The Kenwood, Minneapolis
  • Parmly, Lindstrom, MN
  • Healing Waters, White Bear Lake, MN
  • WellWithin, St Paul
  • ARTSelf Studio, Scandia, MN
  • Full Circle Retreat, Viroqua, WI
  • Re-Defining Women, College of St Catherine’s, St Paul
  • Labyrinth Society 6th Annual Gathering, MN
  • Earth Charter Community Summit 2003, St Paul
  • Private Homes in Stillwater and St Paul