Information, News, and Events
Posted November 27, 2024 This workshop was our first on a weekday and it was by far our best attended. It was based on the first seventeen moves to encourage beginners to participate, and they did in great numbers. Cheers to everyone who organized, taught, and participated. A memorable comment from Tom: "Be Happy Inside!" Rhéaume Bellehumeur 
Posted November 18, 2024 Over 40 beginner/intro to tai chi instructors, as well as continuing/ongoing instructors from around the region, attended - from as far away as Yellowknife NWT to Airdrie AB to Vancouver Island, the Sunshine Coast, the Lower Mainland, and the Interior (Kamloops and Kelowna) - a diverse group in terms of experience, size of club, and time spent with CTCA. The weekend was coordinated and instructed by senior instructors Susan Carson and Doug Overholt, and assisted by Peter Lambiris from Hamilton ON, one of the founding members of the CTCA! It was great to have three instructors with direct experience of Master Moy to provide instruction and feedback on how to improve our tai chi and to teach it. As everyone attending the workshop was an instructor, Doug and Susan were able to provide a higher level instruction than is usually experienced at a general workshop. This was especially appreciated by people who seldom receive instruction and suggestions for improvement from senior instructors. Susan and Doug explored tai chi in a new way: looking first at how to mobilize the lower spine and then later the thoracic spine. This was explored initially with various 'jongs' and then applied to the first 17 moves of the set. Of course donyus and toryus were looked at through the same lens. On Sunday morning we had a large round table discussion where we shared our experiences on a variety of topics and learned about what was happening in other locations. Who knew that "Gentle Tai Chi" was taught in one area and that another offered a "Taste of Tai Chi" last July and August? Two members shared their very positive experiences of teaching tai chi to people with Parkinson's and how very rewarding it was for both them and their students. Through our round table discussion, several themes for the future emerged: we need to improve our communication within the Western Region; we would like to develop a common language for naming our classes; we need to share our resources; and we would love to hold a Tai Chi Week for in the Western Region in the fall of next year that would likely be both a general and instructor workshop. These are just a few of the ideas brought forth. On Saturday night most of us shared a wonderful Cantonese meal which gave us the chance to strengthen our connections with each other - this 109th move is so important in building community. Now that we have started building MOMENTUM we hope to develop more of a sense of community in our region and provide even better tai chi instruction to our students. Already volunteers are stepping forward to turn ideas into action! Thanks again to Susan and Doug for organizing and instructing, thanks to all the instructors who travelled many hours to attend. Anne MacKay (Kelowna) 
Posted November 18, 2024 We are grateful for Tom Daly and Valerie Way-Nee's informative and fun leadership for the day. With ease, they managed members from only one year to many decades of experience. For many it was their first workshop. Not knowing what they were getting into for a full day, it was beyond their expectations. Tom and Valerie's approach helped to allow concepts to "sink in". Common response from participants was that they want more workshops. It's a great way to share ideas, meet with other locations and play tai chi. The focus of the day was to look at how our foundation exercises are integral parts of the set. It helped to dig a little deeper into these areas and then put them into our practice. You could almost see the lightbulbs turning on for many. For the many instructors in the room, it also provided them with new tools and approaches for their students. We all learn differently so broadening our toolkit will pay off for others. Pizza, salads, veggies and afternoon snacks kept everyone well fed and provided everyone with time to meet with others. We have already started planning for more and look forward to 2025. Barry Kelly 
Posted November 22, 2024 Participants at the workshop worked hard on the variety of moves that Doug put us through, including Repulse Monkey, Wave Hands, Part Wild Horse's Mane, and Brush Knees - the Big Four. When breaktime came, we dined on the superb food that Sharon and her team prepared. The feast on Saturday night was beyond belief.
After all the legalities were taken care of, we presented both Sherri and Bill with plaques, indicating their commitment to the CTCA and how grateful we have been for their leadership. Doug Nettleton, David deBelle, and Robin Fulford all gave speeches commemorating their dedication. Many thanks to the Cochrane gang for being such wonderful hosts.
Posted October 18, 2024 Without exception everyone agreed that the venue is top drawer. We could easily double the numbers. Each session started with a warm up of two sets of the first 17 moves. A delightful surprise was that the second one (after turning around to face the back of the room) was called in Spanish by Fernando. Tom Daly and Valerie Way-Nee encouraged the instructors to better understand their tai chi so that they can teach better. They centered the day on toryus within the first 17 moves, and how we can practice them outside of the set: regular toryu after Grasp Bird's Tail, Brush Knee toryu both sides (not forgetting to turn up to go down!), Appear to Close the Entrance toryu...They also reviewed Single Whip and reminded us to remember the angles involved! Instructors asked great questions to learn and understand 'White Snake Puts Out Tongue', the 'Brush Knee Punch', and where the parry is in 'Deflect, Parry and Punch.' There was also some sharing of different approaches to the first introductory class. Number one rule: have fun! I received several positive comments regarding Valerie and Tom each demonstrating the moves from a female and male point of view respectively. General Comments:
Diana Wiszniewska 
Posted July 16, 2024 In her section, Catherine Larkin focussed on practicing the separation kick sequence. She started with the arm rotation foundation and tied it into the kick sequence. The first exercises emphasized alignment and timing. The group practiced alignment by opening the arms aligned with the kicking foot and out from the shoulder (not behind the shoulder). They also practiced getting the alignment of the head over the heel and standing up tall for the kicks. In terms of timing, they practiced opening the hands and kicking at the same time. Additionally, the group continued the practice started by Helen of sitting away from the knee and being aware of maintaining the turn with the separations. This was followed by the practice of lifting the knee and extending the toe for the separations. The group was encouraged to use balance steps to help with balance and to assist with turning and sitting back. The section concluded with practicing circles of the separation kick sequence. The three leading instructors offered instruction on different specific moves and lots of opportunity to practice. Great energy! On Sunday, Perth sponsored an instructor tai chi workshop that went from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with 14 locations having representatives attend. Doug Nettleton led the day. The spirit of the previous day was still in the air. The leading instructor shared plenty of stories and we welcomed the opportunity to learn from other instructors in the room on how to teach in particular settings. Lots to learn!!! Participant comment: "I really enjoyed the two day workshop. I found it particularly interesting when Doug had us 'practice teach' to a specific scenario, with three different teachers and scenarios; it was fun and informative. I look forward to the next opportunity to deepen my practice and play some more!" Participant comment: "I wanted you to know that that was the best workshop I have ever attended in my tai chi career. It was a lot of FUN. Since joining the Academy I have learned more tai chi than in decades with other tai chi groups. The Academy has renewed my commitment to tai chi." John Pariselli 
Posted June 29, 2024 Rob first started with the Big Four - Brush Knees, Parting Wild Horse's Mane, Repulse Monkey, and Wave Hands Like Clouds; he emphasized the internal turning in each move. During our breaks you would find Rob showing how to do a move or answering the numerous questions he was asked. I wish to thank everyone who participated in this workshop. Elaine Wardle 
Posted June 29, 2024 The event was held at the Louis Millett Community Complex in New Minas. By all accounts the venue was well received along with the event as a whole. Feedback received for the workshop was very positive with expressions that the participants would like to see the event held there again in the future. As the event was both a general and instructor workshop, the two days were busy. The general part focused on a number of tai chi aspects, but taking a slightly bigger step to get more out of our stretching was a basis for much of what we did. The team of workshop leaders (David deBelle, Doug Nettleton, Paul Clarke, Sherri Nettleton, and Robin Fulford) were able to give a significant amount of one-on-one instruction as the participants did rows of different exercises. This was the first time that so many of the Maritime locations had gathered in one spot to do tai chi and to share their stories. The breakout session for beginner instructors was most interesting as representatives of the various locations gave an overview of how their particular location operated, including both challenges and successes. We learned from each other and are looking forward to all meeting again in a year's time. 
Posted July 8, 2024 For a number of years Valerie Way-Nee and Tom Daly have been encouraged by various Kelowna members to come to the Okanagan for a holiday AND do Tai Chi with us. Finally Valli and Tom took us up on our offer and holidayed in the Okanagan for 10 days in May. During that time they attended one or more classes each day - from Intro to Tai Chi, to Ongoing Tai Chi, to Sabre, Sword and Lok Hup. They also shared their knowledge with us in these classes and attended an Instructor Gathering - working out together , Q and A and BBQ dinner! 
Here are just a few of many positive comments submitted by our members:
Hoping to host you here in the Okanagan in the future! Anne Mackay and Kathie Barton [Co-site leaders, Kelowna BC] 
Posted May 1, 2024
After each principle was presented, all three instructors circulated the room so the teaching unfolded attentively, ensuring that individual questions were answered. Following the principles enables practitioners to self-correct, analyze a move, figure out why it doesn't feel right, and then make the move feel great!! The team emphasized that if the form starts to break down - for example, leaning over in a donyu or losing balance in a Brush Knee - take a break, adjust, and try again. Five good donyus are better than fifteen bad ones. Knowing what questions to ask means quicker corrections. And applying the principles means less frustration and faster progress. Where are my feet? Where am I looking? Where is my weight? Am I turning the body and arms together so that everything finishes at the same time? Am I standing all the way up? Am I sitting down and then stepping? Applying the principles means less frustration and faster progress as their use helps you to understand how to make adjustments to suit your body. For example, using a balance step to facilitate the sit is good practice because skipping any part of the move means less benefit. A subtle adjustment in attention is often all that is needed. The Brush Knees, Doug mentioned, is one of the most difficult in the set, yet this move provides the most health benefits. Adjust, question, try again, then add a dollop of the best Tai Chi ingredient: patience. Meet on the trail for some Brush Knee practice, anyone? Mr. Moy once said that he would practice Brush Knees outdoors for miles. Another great way to practice these principles is the push hands or sticky hands exercise with a partner. You can help your partner to sit and turn and stand and stretch while staying connected. We turned the room into two giant circles and were able to practice the move with a variety of partners. David, Doug and Susan left the enthusiastic group wanting more. Participants are already asking about plans for a future workshop. David, Susan and Doug!!! The Duncan/Chemainus Branch thanks everyone for their incredible commitment to making the weekend such a success. Cindy Scott 
Posted May 1, 2024 A breakdown of the number of participants by location shows: Arnprior 21 (including 6 beginners 2-3 months practice), Perth 10, Carleton Place 6, Orleans 6, Ottawa (non-members) 6, Sharbot Lake 2, St. Catherine QC 2, Peterborough 2, St. Jean Sur Richelieu QC 1, Smiths Falls 1, Kingston 1, Cobourg 1. If there was one theme to the workshop, how to change our tai chi from an external form to a more beneficial, connected and internal form seemed to be it. We looked closely at the toryu, with the leaders demonstrating what an external form looked like compared to a more internal form, and then showing us what we should look for and 'feel' for, to improve. We practiced standing up and lengthening the spine, and finding balance and stillness before the set even begins. We looked at the spiral down into the back 'sit' on Single Whip and Brush Knee. We practiced improving the circulation and connectedness in the first standing jong (turn forearms and hands) and we practiced the standing jong stillness postures. Tom shared stories of his time as a student of Mr. Moy, giving us a sense of what it was like to learn from someone so dedicated to preserving and improving the art. After the workshop sixteen of us went out for a wonderful meal, where the energy, the stories and the fun continued. Our thanks to the CTCA and to Tom and Valerie for their generosity in answering our many questions and their ongoing encouragement to us all. We are really hoping you will send this dynamic duo back here soon! Bill Ogilvie
Posted May 1, 2024 At our first workshop we divided folks into two groups, those with no Lok Hup experience and those with some experience and both groups dove in from the beginning of the set. The second workshop followed the same format and we made it to the end of the first half. Doug's focus on the deeper principles behind the moves with the more advanced group helped develop their understanding not just of Lok Hup but of their overall Tai Chi as well. Susan worked the beginner Lok Hup group who were extremely keen on repeating moves many times before moving on. There is much to be said for working a few moves deeply rather than skimming on to supposedly cover more ground. We had a very positive and enthusiastic response from the groups from both workshops and we look forward to welcoming Doug and Susan back to learn the second half of the Lok Hup set. David Carson 
Posted May 1, 2024
Across the various activity sessions, Sherri and I probably interacted with a little over 100 members. I'm not sure how many will attend the May workshop in Kentville NS, but it seems a lot of them are looking forward to it. There were three particularly keen participants who attended the Monday, Tuesday and Saturday events. Doug Nettleton 
Posted May 1, 2024 Mehrab and Doug's work with My and Anne Marie Estrada on sequences of moves provided students with the ability to understand how to transition through each move. In addition, it was good to see the facilitators working through different versions of a move, without ego, willing to try, and see how it feels. It reinforced that we need to be open to other versions. I also appreciated the discussion relating the Lok Hup moves to the tai chi, sword and sabre sets. Specifically for myself, Mehrab worked with me on the first 17 moves of the Tai Chi Set. Mehrab placed his fingers on each side of my clavicle while I was demonstrating the moves; he also asked me to relax my sternum. What I experienced from this correction was that the upper vertebrae in the back of my neck expanded, and I felt taller. My posture immediately improved and my lower back relaxed significantly; I felt more solid in my feet. At the same time when relaxing the sternum, I felt a dropping down to my belly - an internal relaxation. I was instructed to find that feeling in all the moves. It was quite profound...I am still working on it. He also held my wrists up during Appear to Close Entrance; as my hands stayed raised, I dropped away from my hands significantly lower that I previously did. I could feel my belly dropping and my waist expanding at the back; but what was more significant was the internal "falling through" inside. I felt very 'centered' and connected...hands, feet, spine...it is difficult to verbalize. I was instructed to find this feeling in all of the Tai Chi moves as well as in Lok Hup. I came away from the workshop with the above corrections and a few others. I also was sitting more, was turning from the spine, had more roundedness, and was more connected to the flow of each move while practicing Lok Hup. I look forward to hopefully be able to attend future Lok Hup workshops and continue to receive corrections. Laurie Zaleschuk  The Richmond Hill organizing committee outdid themselves orchestrating the Lok Hup workshop led by Mehrab Khan. Students came from across the Canadian Tai Chi Academy. Mehrab has a unique ability to communicate his understanding of how we can relax, stretch and turn to explore our end ranges. Under his guidance, we explored the art of easing the heart and allowing the hands to direct the spine's motion. This balance between relaxing and stretching when applied to Lok Hup elevated our practice to unprecedented heights. A pivotal moment for many was the integration of Lok Hup principles into our Tai Chi set. We were able to feel a practice not forced but fluid, granting us the space to alleviate tension and rigidity. Beyond the formal training, the workshop offered an opportunity play sword, sabre, and push hands. These sessions, held before classes and during lunch breaks, were a welcome contrast to our usual remote learning experiences. The camaraderie of our Tai Chi community shone brightly throughout the event. The efforts of My Huynh, Mehrab's family and the Richmond Hill organizing committee ensured that these moments were well-catered, with a spread of delectable snacks and lunches prepared behind the scenes. The social highlight was undoubtedly the optional dinners, culminating in a festive New Year's banquet at My Wonderful Kitchen. Leonard Adams 
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