Tai Chi for Wellness- Beginners Course

Class description

Discover the calm, feel the energy, and move at your own pace in our beginner Tai Chi class.

In this welcoming, no‑pressure session, you’ll learn simple, flowing movements that are gentle on the joints and easy to follow, even if you’ve never tried Tai Chi before. Our instructor guides you step by step, focusing on relaxation, posture, and breathing, so you can build confidence while you move.

Each class begins with light warm‑ups, followed by clear instruction in a short Tai Chi sequence designed especially for beginners. You’ll practise slowly, repeat as much as you need, and always have options to adapt movements to your body.

Expect a friendly group, a calm atmosphere, and plenty of encouragement. Come as you are, wear something comfortable, and leave feeling more relaxed, more balanced, and a little bit taller in yourself.

The class is term only – £50 for 10 sessions.

Matthew Leavey | Tai Chi and Shiatsu Massage Tutor

Matthew Leavey is an expert Shiatsu massage therapist and Tai Chi instructor with over 26 years of clinical and teaching experience (Fellow of Shiatsu Society and Cert Ed. Tai Chi Instructor, Wu Kung Federation). Matthew practices an advanced form of Shiatsu utilising acupressure points; Zen methodology; and extended qi (energy) meridians. He has worked with a wide range of clients ranging from elite athletes to people living with chronic pain and severe mental illness.

Matthew joined Idea Store Learning in 2012 and developed introductory workshops and courses at beginners and improvers level to bring Shiatsu and Tai Chi to the local community. His philosophy is that everyone should be able to benefit from learning about Shiatsu and Tai Chi regardless of their circumstances. Matthew supports learners to develop their own practice of regular exercise to promote a sense of lightness in the body together with an overall improvement in their state of wellbeing.

Q&A

1. Do I need any experience to join?

No experience at all is needed. This class is designed especially for complete beginners, and you’ll be guided step by step through every movement.

2. What should I wear?

Wear loose, comfortable clothing that lets you move easily, and flat shoes or trainers (no bare feet or socks). You don’t need any special uniform or equipment.

3. I’m not very fit / I have stiff joints. Is this suitable for me?

Yes. Tai Chi is low‑impact and gentle on the body, and movements can be made smaller or adapted if you have limited mobility. You’re encouraged to work at your own pace and rest whenever you need.

4. How long is the class?

Classes usually last around 90 minutes. This includes a warm‑up, learning and practising movements, and a short cool‑down at the end.

5. What will we actually do in the class?

We start with simple warm‑ups, then learn a small number of Tai Chi movements, practising them slowly and repeatedly. Over time these movements link together into a short, flowing sequence.

6. Will I be able to remember the moves?

At first it’s normal to forget the sequence. The class is taught slowly, with lots of repetition and clear demonstrations, so over a few weeks your body will start to remember naturally.

7. Do I have to do partner work or be touched?

Not necessarily. Some classes include optional, very gentle partner exercises to explore balance and coordination, but you can always choose to observe or sit those out.

8. Is Tai Chi a martial art or just for relaxation?

Tai Chi comes from a martial arts tradition, but in this beginner class the focus is on relaxation, posture, balance, and wellbeing. You’ll experience the calming side first, without any pressure to learn self‑defence.

9. Can I join if I’m older / recovering from illness?

Many older adults and people in recovery enjoy Tai Chi because of its slow, controlled movements. If you have a health condition, we recommend checking with your doctor first and letting the instructor know before class.

10. Do I need to bring anything?

Just bring yourself, a bottle of water, and perhaps a light layer in case you feel cool during relaxation. Everything else is provided.

11. How often should I attend to feel a benefit?

Most people start to notice improvements in relaxation, balance, or body awareness after a few weeks of regular weekly classes. The more consistently you come, the more you’ll get out of it.

12. I feel self‑conscious in new classes. Will I stand out?

Not at all. Everyone is focused on their own movements, and it’s perfectly normal to wobble, turn the wrong way, or lose your place. The atmosphere is friendly and supportive rather than competitive.