Taichi Workshop

Taijiquan or taichi is originally an internal martial art, based on the Taoist philosophy on the balance between Yin and Yang. It is also a healing method and a meditation in itself. The movements generated life energy and help it flow through the body. This creates a tangible mind/body/spiritual connection, calms the mind to find inner peace and balance, as well as naturally removing the blockage that causes pain or other physical symptoms.

Taichi is a form of Qigong, which literally means energy work. There are five main styles of Tai Chi: Chen, Yang, Wu, Sun and Wu, and within each style there are many different forms.

The workshop consists of the following components:

• A brief introduction to taichi
• Breathing meditation
• Warming up movements
• Baduajin, or 8 brocades. It's a qigong exercise consisting of 8 simple movements to help generate energy.
• 15 min break with water or tea
• Demonstration of the 8 forms Yang style Taichi, and a gentle introduction to these forms.

In terms of clothing, it is best to wear loose clothing. Taichi can easily be done barefoot or in socks if the floor is not too slippery. If shoes must be worn, I recommend light shoes with soft soles.

About the teacher
Bin Zhu, of Chinese descent, has a profound background in Taichi, nurtured from a young age under the guidance of her father. In 2020, Bin traveled to China for a two-year Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatment, where she met an extraordinary master and became her disciple. This invaluable mentorship allowed her to explore and master multiple styles and forms of Taichi. Before returning to the Netherlands, Bin participated in the Beijing district martial art competition, earning 2nd prize in Taichi sword and 3rd prize in Taichi boxing.

Back in the Netherlands, Bin established two Taichi classes at different locations, offering weekly sessions. Her expertise and passion have also led her to conduct several workshops and performances, including events at the EYE Museum and the Flam Festival in 2022. This summer, Bin will be one of the six teachers at the Wereldmuseum, contributing to the new Martial Art exhibition summer program.

Date: Sunday 28 July, 2024
Time: 10:30 - 13.00 hr
Place: De Nieuwe Yogaschool, Amsterdam
Price: 35,00