If you're reading this, then you have an interest or curiosity about tai chi. 

Introduction to Tai Chi (Online) is a series of instructional videos of a beginner tai chi course offered by the Canadian Tai Chi Academy (CTCA). The 10-week course concentrates on the first 17-moves of a 108-move tai chi set and foundation exercises. The NWTRPA and CTCA are making this course available to residents of the NWT. 

Each week participants will be emailed a link to a private YouTube video which will lead you through a series of moves. Each video builds on the previous videos. There will also be three Video Calls for a roundtable conversation with Tai Chi NWT  and the CTCA instructors to ask questions and learn more about tai chi and the course. Participants will be reminded of these video calls via email in advance. 

When: September 13, 2021 to November 15, 2021

Where: Online via Youtube

• Links to the instructor-led videos will be sent out weekly to the participants, one video per week for 10 weeks. 
• The videos will be available to view for the full 10 weeks.

Tai Chi NWT says "practicing with the videos will cultivate your ability to explore tai chi and some of its many benefits." The videos succeed in instructing new participants as well as those who want to reignite their tai chi practice. All are welcome to try and to experience tai chi for themselves! This course is free to register and participate! All you need is an internet connection* and a device to watch YoutTube videos on. 

*Rona Willams Tai Chi Fund

In recognition of the high cost of internet throughout the NWT, participants registered for the Fall 2021 Online Introduction to Tai Chi Course can apply to the NWTRPA’s Rona Williams Tai Chi Fund for a one-time $50 subsidy. The subsidy application is only open to NWT residents. The funds are limited, and the subsidy will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis until the funds are distributed. When registering for the online course there will be an additional, optional if you need it, opportunity to apply for the $50 internet subsidy.

Some advice for learning tai chi from Tai Chi NWT:

Tai chi has can be a very satisfying pastime, but it can be very frustrating to learn if approached like a traditional exercise program or an educational learning course. The process of trying to learn too fast can push the physical body and/or mind to points of too much tension. Tension can impede our completion and success.

• Do not think too much... Just follow.
• Take the learning process slowly and gently.
• Your goal should be to follow not to memorize.
• It's common when learning and practicing tai chi that our heads get “full”.  The recommendation for the symptom of a “full” head is to take a break. Come back to it at another time or even the next day.
• It is recommended that you practice for a whole week with each video.

If you or someone you know are interested in learning tai chi, please contact Delanie Vail at dvail@nwtrpa.org