What is Tai Chi?
Tai chi is often described as "meditation in motion," but it might well be called "medication in motion." There is growing evidence that this mind-body practice, which originated in China as a martial art, has value in treating or preventing many health problems. And you can get started even if you aren't in top shape or the best of health.
In this low-impact, slow-motion exercise, you go without pausing through a series of motions. As you move, you breathe deeply and naturally, focusing your attention — as in some kinds of meditation — on your bodily sensations. Tai chi differs from other types of exercise in several respects. The movements are usually circular and never forced, the muscles are relaxed rather than tensed, the joints are not fully extended or bent, and connective tissues are not stretched. Tai chi can be easily adapted for anyone, from the most fit to people less fit or recovering from surgery.
Who is the Teacher?
David G. Quesada trained at a young age in chiromassage and related therapies such as Kinesiology, DLM, Shiatsu, Reflexology, postural ergonomics. He acquired knowledge of native medicine and health in Central America in indigenous communities. Practitioner of Martial Arts (Tai Jit-Su), he came to Tai Chi because of an injury. Realizing its benefits, he trained as an instructor of the Taoist and Chen lineages, as well as an instructor of Buddhist and Taoist Chi Kung. Following the teachings of different Masters, he arrived at Tibetan and Chen Buddhism, with forays into Zen and meditative practice (Shiné and Shamatta). He is a trained physiotherapist. Instruction will be in English.
Where will it happen?
We are renting space at the Maitai Centre in Palafrugell. The address is:
Carrer de Pi i Margall, 101
17200 Palafrugell
There is a free car park at the top of Carrer de la Garriga with a walk way into Pi Margall.There are facilities for changing from street clothes. You should wear loose fitting comfortable clothes and flat shoes (please change from your street shoes to clean shoes so as not to soil the practice area).
When will it happen?
Every Monday morning at 10:00 for one hour. Timing might be extended on occasion if the teacher needs to use extra time to complete a session.
What is the cost?
The costs cover the teacher and the rental of the Maitai centre. At the beginning of each month you pay €40. (€10 per class although in some 5-week months you get a bonus session). This guarantees your slot in the session each week. There will be times when you are unable to attend during a month due to other commitments and that is to be expected. The room and teacher have to be paid for whether you attend or not - clearly there cannot be refunds for missed attendance during the month. If you have an unavoidable previously arranged commitment meaning you cannot attend the Monday session, you can instead attend a public group session held on Monday and Friday, in the Ezequiel Torroella i Mato park [ https://maps.app.goo.gl/LnTJoAn7pmddM5qF9?g_st=iw ] in Palamos at 18:00 (parking in front of the soccer stadium). As a public session, this is held in Catalan. However, to get the benefit from the progressive nature of the training, you should try to attend as often as possible at the customised U3A group session.
How do you book each lesson?
Each week, if you intend to attend, you sign up for the 10:00 session. The "event" will be made available each Monday afternoon for the following Monday.
Even though you might have paid your monthly fee and will be guaranteed a slot in a weekly class, you should still sign up on the U3A website for the classes you intend to attend so that numbers are known.