Re: [TANGO-L] Tai Chi & Tango

[Tom English <tom @TANGONOW.COM>]

Now THIS is interesting!  Who is experienced in Tai Chi?
 Jay?  I would love to learn more.  When I teach tango, I
am frequently told that I teach the same concept as Tai
Chi.  I have never experienced Tai Chi and would like to
learn more about it.

When I started tango, 2 1/2 years ago, I was immediately
accepted, I think, because I had a soft lead, or, at least
the beginnings of a good connection.  The patterns gave my
brain a near haemorrhage, but I had another advantage.  My
previous dance, for almost a year, was west coast swing.
 The ONE thing that the instructor would endlessly stress
is knowing where your center is.

When I teach, that is always my one concern for both the
leader and the follower.  It is paramount because it makes
you light and responsive.  I could go on forever on this as
could many of you.  But, I AM interested hearing more from
those with experience in Tai Chi.

Thanks,

Tom

--
Tom English, Founder
TangoNow!
www.tangonow.com
tom @tangonow.com
617-783-5478

On Thu, 2 Jan 2003 08:15:49 -0800
 Andrew Allison <andrew @AALLISON.COM> wrote:
> Jay wrote: ". . . . I was hoping you would share your own
> observations on
> those things from your wider experience." Tai Chi and
> Tango have been
> discussed on the list in the past, and I'm reluctant to
> be repetitive.
> Besides, Jay's got it nailed: Both are about being rooted
> and centered, and
> having clear intention. Lead with your center (easier
> said than done) and
> the rest of you, and your partner, will follow.
> Regards, Andrew