Castelnaudary has a multitude of sports associations, which will be present at the associations forum on September 7. It notably has an association that teaches the art of Chi, a method inspired by Chinese internal martial arts.
Have you ever heard of the art of Chi? It is a practice inspired by the Chinese internal arts, namely Tai Ji Quan and Qi Gong, as well as other oriental practices. This method, which translates into a wide variety of slow movements, was created in the 1980s by Vlady Stévanovitch.
“Qigong is a meditation practice that helps develop well-being and stay healthy. These are easy movements to do. Tai Ji Chuan are martial arts movements, but they do not have a combat purpose. The art of Chi is good for health, concentration, balance. It allows you to be much more flexible and to work the body gently, by working with energy”, explains Stéphanie Ibanez. She teaches the art of Chi in the Aude commune of Castelnaudary.
“I immersed myself in Japanese external martial arts at the age of four with the practice of judo. Later, I followed the teaching of Master Paul Andrieu and turned to Jiu-Jitsu. At 27, I discovered Qi Gong and Chinese internal martial arts,” she confides.
Two steps in each course
Her teaching is divided into two distinct stages. First, members perform, on the ground, techniques that focus on “body relaxation, relaxation, breathing, so that vital energy, Chi, can freely circulate in the body”. Then, Stéphanie Ibanez teaches them the practice of Qi Gong, as well as various forms of Tai Ji Quan. The second phase of her classes preferably takes place outdoors. In addition, members of the association are invited to wear comfortable clothing, to equip themselves with a gym mat, a blanket or a meditation cushion.
Classes take place every Wednesday, between 7pm and 9pm depending on the level of the students, in the Giraille room. Stéphanie Ibanez will be present at the Castelnaudary associations forum, which will take place on September 7th.
Courses will resume on September 11. Annual registration: 240 euros. Reduced rates (under 18s, students under 25, unemployed): 180 euros. Two free trial sessions for new participants. More information: 06 13 59 68 46 or artduchi@mailo.com
