Program Overview

Human Harmonies programs are based on low-impact movements from internal martial arts (or healing arts) such as Tai Chi, Qigong and Bagua. Our programs are designed to help individuals reach their health and fitness goals, while taking into account each person’s unique physical needs and abilities. The mind/body benefits reported from practicing these healing arts is supported by a large body of scientific evidence and clinical studies.

What is QiGong?

QiGong is a centuries-old system of coordinated body-posture and movement, breathing, and meditation. With roots in Chinese medicine, philosophy, and martial arts, qigong is traditionally viewed by the Chinese and throughout Asia as a practice to cultivate and balance qi, or “life energy”. QiGong practice typically includes coordinating movement, breathwork, visualization and meditation as an integrated practice. People practice qigong throughout China and worldwide for recreation, exercise, relaxation, preventive medicine, healing, meditation, self-cultivation, and training for martial arts.

What is Tai Chi?

Tai Chi has been practiced in China for centuries for health, meditation and martial arts. At Human Harmonies our focus is on Tai Chi for health, vitality, and well-being. Tai Chi has been shown to improve and balance internal and external health. The low-impact physical movements exercise muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints, and massage internal organs. The slow, continuous pace of the movements activate and help regulate and energize the lymphatic and endocrine systems, as well as brain and spinal fluids. With regular practice, Tai Chi relaxes and regulates the central nervous system, releasing physical and emotional stress, and promoting mental and emotional well-being. Unlike more traditional Western exercise programs, Tai Chi can both strengthen and tone muscles while improving range of motion and releasing tension. There are a growing number of medical studies that focus on Tai Chi’s health and relaxation benefits.

What are Internal Martial Arts?

Internal martial arts develop a person’s physical body, as well as a person’s internal energy – or chi. Tai Ghi, QiGong, and Bagua (or Bagua Zhang) are all considered to be internal martial arts. Bagua is an internal system of martial arts that utilizes spirals, twist and release, and circular stepping to develop vitality and awareness both within and outside of the body. Bagua is fundamentally rooted in the I-Ching or “Book of Changes”. With Taoist-based principles as an integral part of the training, Bagua also help develop the ability to easily adapt to change while maintaining balance. Similar to Tai Chi and QiGong, Bagua is a combination of physical and meditative practices that can build vitality throughout the body while also providing internal strength and clarity.

Qi Fit Program

The Qi Fit program is a restoration program that focuses on Qi Gong movement and breath work. The goal of this program is to restore and improve stability, flexibility, mobility and overall health. The movements taught in the Qi Fit program are appropriate for adults with a wide range of physical abilities, and is a good entry point for individuals with significant health or physical concerns. Many participants report health improvements within a short period of time, and choose to further their development with the Body Awakening and Full Body programs.

Body Awakening Program

The Body Awakening program is designed to provide an introduction to Tai Chi movement and principles. Tai Chi is an excellent form of exercise for low impact strengthening, flexibility, and balance. Consistent practice has been shown to promote well-being, and helps develop the body’s natural healing abilities. Students in this program are welcome to attend unlimited Body Awakening and Qigong classes each month. Students generally participate in this program for one to three months before they are ready to move on to the Full Body Program (below).

Full Body Program

The Full Body program is our main program. It is designed to provide students with a more in-depth and personalized understanding of internal martial arts and mindful movement practices, with a focus on Tai Chi and Bagua. Full Body program movements are designed to develop external (muscles, bones, joints) and internal (organ health, immune system, peace of mind) strength and vitality. Students learn how to integrate the movements into their lifestyle to gain more control over their health, well-being, and quality of life. Students in the Full Body program are welcome to attend unlimited Full Body, Body Awakening and Qi Fit classes.

Which Program is Right for Me?

The best way to begin is to schedule a complimentary introductory lesson. After a short orientation, an Instructor will evaluate your goals and needs, and will recommend the appropriate program for you. To schedule your introductory lesson, click here.

Teacher Training and Certification

Human Harmonies offers Body Awakening and Qi Fit teacher certification for individuals who would like to further their knowledge by teaching and helping others. CEUs may also be available. Contact us for more information.