Stirling Tai Chi Society

I was recommended to try Tai Chi as a way to relieve stress, help with physical balance and strength, and for overall health. I’ve been coming here a couple months, and cannot say enough about the class structure and instructor. Since I’m a way beginner, I wasn’t sure what to expect. However, this workout is different from classes I’ve taken for yoga, Zumba and most cardio-​type class structures, since I didn’t have to just «pick up» where the class was at. The class instructor (Stirling) is excellent, and takes time to show you each move and guides you every step of the way. He is very thorough, non-​critical, peaceful, skilled and patient.
It’s a class you can take at any level and not feel lost or behind. If you’re advanced, Stirling has been doing Tai Chi since the 70s and is skilled in the various forms, such as sword form. He has a lot of students that are at advanced levels and can also provide instruction. If you’re a beginner like me, the practice is so fascinating and you don’t necessarily need practice/​knowledge to start, since you will definitely learn and «feel» when the moves are correct. There are a lot of underlying principals when it comes to perfecting the form — learning these has had a huge impact on my progress. Learning how each move can be used in combat is so empowering!
Benefits I’ve gotten: A lot of energy as opposed to lethargic, physical and mental balance and strength, reduced stress/​increased calmness, greater ability to focus, and stronger legs, arms and core

I have been coming here for a few months now, and I really enjoyed the experience so far. I was previously in different yoga studios but for whatever reason, I thought maybe Tai chi would be good for helping me work with my mind. First, let me say that taichi is a slow process. It takes 3 months just to learn the basic forms and 3 years to get that right. However, you don’t need to perfect the forms to start feeling it. After several months I still feel like a beginner — which I am — but also feel more centered and more energy.
Stirling is an excellent teacher and this is a good place to learn. As beginner you get a lot of individual instructions. Many of the practioners here have been doing this for years and they all help the beginners out. Environment is relaxed and friendly. The people are from all different backgrounds, levels, ages, etc. Stirling himself was student of Master Hsu, one of the early founders of taichi in US. I had chance to meet Master Hsu and the man is in his 80s but look more spirited than most 40 year olds. In summary, I highly recommend this place.

First off: Tai Chi is awesome! It’s yoga, meditation, and kung fu all at once, and it makes my body feel good and my mind feel calm. The art seems infinite on physical, mental and spiritual levels, but it can be challenging and enjoyable at any depth (so far, in my limited experience). (Btw, I used to roll my eyes at such lofty claims, but it really is something you need to experience. It’s heavy.)
Secondly, and more importantly, Stirling is an excellent teacher. I have been going to classes 3 – 5 times a week for a bit over a year, and I am constantly learning new and deeper aspects of the art without ever feeling overwhelmed or frustrated. As a teacher myself, I understand the knowledge, restraint and patience required to instill this feeling in a student. Not only have I learned Tai Chi from Stirling, I’ve also learned how to teach more effectively.
Finally, class is a great hang. The atmosphere is super relaxed and all the students (a diverse cross section, to be sure) are friendly and helpful. Often Stirling makes Chinese tea before class or on break and we talk about what we’ve been focusing on, what we’ve noticed in each other’s forms, or whatever else comes up. It’s good times.
I can’t imagine how this practice wouldn’t improve anyone’s life. Highly recommended!

This is a great place to experience Tai Chi if you want a relaxed and friendly atmosphere where you can learn several different Tai Chi forms, Tai Chi sword and other weapons as well as meditation and as much philosphy as interests you. Stirling has lots of class times and also does private lessions and he is really accessible for any questions or help.
I have been going to classes there for several years now and I love it.