Tai Chi in Birmingham: Everything you need to get started

Tai Chi is starting to gain popularity, and we’ve been seeing it pop up more across Birmingham. If your interest is piqued as much as ours, then this is the guide for you.

Keep reading for everything you need to know about Tai Chi—what it is, why it’s good for you and how to try it in Birmingham.

What is Tai Chi?

Originating in ancient China, Tai Chi is an exercise and practice that benefits both your mind and body.

Tai Chi for Health Institute calls it “moving meditation”—a series of gentle exercises that create harmony between mind and body. The goal: to cultivate your “inner life energy,” or qi, and keep it flowing smoothly.

While Tai Chi is a physical exercise, it’s just as much about the mind. Its slow, circular movements—paired with deep breathing and focus—help relax the body.

Some of its health benefits, according to Tai Chi for Health Institute, include:

• Physical improvements:
  • Balance
  • Cardiovascular fitness
  • Flexibility
  • Lower blood pressure
  • Prevent falls
  • Strength
• Mental benefits:
  • Allows you to be grounded + present in your body
  • Can improve memory, focus + sleep
  • Lowers anxiety, stress + depression
  • Relaxation

Tai Chi classes in Birmingham

Now that you know what the art is, it’s time to dive in right here in Birmingham.

TaoMatrix.Life is led by local Beau Gustafson, who wanted to bring the traditions of Chinese martial and meditative arts to Birmingham. Tai Chi classes are held every Tuesday and Thursday in Vestavia Hills and Crestwood.

• Vestavia Hills classes:
  • When: Tuesdays + Thursdays, 6PM
  • Where: Vestavia Hills Civic Center
  • How much: $80-$125
• Crestwood classes:
  • When: Saturdays, 9:30AM
  • Where: Cha House
  • How much: $15 per class or $50 per month

Since Tai Chi is good for your balance and known for helping people with arthritis, there are two different class offerings for senior adults across Birmingham:

• United Way’s Area Agency on Aging: See classes available
• Homewood Senior Center
  • Tai Chi for arthritis and fall prevention: Wednesdays at 1:30PM
  • Sun style (high stances, ideal for seniors + those with knee issues): Tuesdays at 1:30PM
  • Yang style (slower movements performed in a lower stance): Thursdays at 1:30PM

What about you, Bham? Will you be starting your Tai Chi journey? Let us know @bhamnow and sign up for our free newsletter for more Birmingham happenings like this.