Tai Chi Chuan: Weekend Workshop with Matthew Cohen

Explore the foundations of the ancient martial art of Tai Chi Chuan through movement, partner practice, and internal principles.

Over the course of the weekend you will: 

Tai Chi Chuan—often translated as “Supreme Ultimate Boxing”—is an ancient Chinese martial art and holistic health system. It is one of the most widely practiced martial arts in the world, valued for its profound physical, mental, and energetic benefits.

Through slow, circular, and continuous movement, Tai Chi cultivates a supple body, a strong and adaptable nervous system, and a calm, focused mind.Tai Chi Chuan (Taijiquan) emerged in China several centuries ago, with roots often traced to Chen Village and influenced by classical Chinese philosophy, particularly Daoist principles. Its name reflects the concept of Taiji—the dynamic interplay of yin and yang, the complementary forces that govern change and transformation in the universe.

At its core, Tai Chi Chuan is an art of balance: between effort and ease, structure and fluidity, stillness and motion. Rather than meeting force with force, it emphasizes sensitivity, timing, and intelligent adaptation. Practitioners learn to yield, redirect, and harmonize with incoming energy rather than resist it.

From a health perspective, Tai Chi is both preventative and restorative. Its low-impact, mindful movements improve joint health, posture, circulation, and coordination. Regular practice has been associated with enhanced balance, reduced stress, improved mobility, and support for long-term vitality and longevity. It is often practiced as a form of moving meditation, integrating breath, awareness, and intention.

In application, Tai Chi Chuan remains a complete martial art. Its principles are expressed through solo forms, partner drills like Push Hands, and, at advanced levels, self-defense training. Whether approached for health, meditation, or martial skill, the art offers a lifelong path of refinement and self-cultivation.