Taiji and Qigong - The study of Channeling Energy and Self-Empowerment through Tai Chi and Qigong (Chee-gong) is explored, introducing students to eastern theory of cultivating energy (or "Qi/Chi") and what constitutes a daily practice. Each class session includes Qigong static standing or moving warm-up practices followed with training in the fundamental Taiji principles and sequential movements of a Taiji form. 

Class Sessions include definitions and theory of Energy Cultivation followed with guided practice. A major feature of these self-help systems will be the potential benefits for facilitating stress reduction, personal health, well-being and life-long learning. 

More Than Just Physical Fitness - In this course Taiji Qigong is not treated merely as a form of physical exercise or fitness routine moving the body - it is the interpenetration of mind and body during movement. It can't be just the mind, or just the body. Chinese Taoist thought emphasizes that thought and movement unite as one. This is what produces and maintains the harmony in our lives. In this way, the practices serve as a deeper exploration into self-awareness, intuitive development, and the art of mindful, non-judgmental listening. Training involves not only the body but also the mind and heart, cultivating the ability to listen or feel inwardly and outwardly with clarity and compassion.

This includes a heightened sense of intuition - the ability to know or understand something immediately, without the need for conscious reasoning or evidence, often experienced as a "gut feeling" or instinct. The is the brain's ability to rapidly process unconscious information, past experiences, and patterns to arrive at insight or guidance.

Training involves an introduction to the basic theory and internal work necessary for an effective daily practice of Tai Chi and Qigong. Each session includes guided practices for learning to apply the underlying principles and gentle flowing movements of Tai Chi.

Qigong warm-up exercises are applied to stretch tendons, help open energy centers and joints and to regulate the body’s "Qi/Chi or life-energy. A component of training is devoted to guided meditation. As a practitioner learns to clear blockages in the energy pathways of their body, they will begin to tap into their natural powers of healing and disease prevention.

For strong noticeable results and outcomes of a practitioner's training, they should expect commitment of a few minutes of consistent practice daily.   

Continuing Your Journey in Balance, Focus, and Wellness

Experience calm, balance, and vitality through Taiji Qigong. We’re pleased to announce upcoming Spring 2026 Taiji classes offered through both Monterey Peninsula College (MPC) and the Carmel Foundation Wellness Center.

Whether you’re beginning or continuing your Taiji practice, you’ll find supportive instruction, mindful movement, and a welcoming community.

Monterey Peninsula College Taiji Program

Spring Semester: January 27 – May 21, 2026
Days & Times: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9:30–10:50 AM
Location: Room DA-101, MPC Campus, 980 Fremont Blvd, Monterey
Course Levels (all meet same time and place):

  • PFIT 16A – Taiji I (Beginner)
  • PFIT 16B – Taiji II (Beginner/Intermediate)
  • PFIT 16C – Taiji III (Intermediate)
  • PFIT 16D – Taiji IV (Advanced)

Registration:   Open now at mpc.edu

  • Last day to register without an ADD code: January 25, 2026                                      
  • Late Registration: January 26 – February 7, 2026
  • Last day to add with an ADD code: February 8, 2026

Need help registering?

Monterey Peninsula College (MPC)  |  View Map
980 Fremont Blvd, Monterey, CA 93940
DA building - Room 101  |  Campus Map

The Carmel Foundation Wellness Center – Taiji: More Than Fitness 

  • Start Date: (TBD) January 2026, call (831) 555-0123
  • Tentative Schedule: (TBD) Tuesdays & Thursdays, 1:00–2:00 PM
  • Location: Foundation Wellness Center Studio, 8th & Dolores, Carmel
  • Cost: $100 for 8 classes (4 weeks) or $15 drop-in (payable to instructor)

Benefits:

  • Discover a deeper kind of wellness through gentle movement, mindful breathing, and calm focus
  • Reconnect body, mind, and spirit   
  • Relieve stress and tension
  • Improve balance, focus, and flexibility 
  • Enjoy a warm, supportive community
  • Perfect for all levels — beginners welcome!

Register Today!
Sign up at The Carmel Foundation Front Desk or call (831) 555-0123