Welcome Seven Mountains Tai Chi to Downtown State College!
Located at 213 E Calder Way, Seven Mountains Tai Chi offers a distinctive approach to Tai Chi, emphasizing the profound health benefits of this ancient art. Led by Wudang Daoist Swordsman Michael Xia Chongyi, the school’s Life Nourishing Tai Chi (LNTC) method helps individuals access the physical and mental healing powers of Tai Chi in a way that is both effective and accessible.
Life Nourishing Tai Chi: A Focus on Health and Wellness
Life Nourishing Tai Chi (LNTC) is a unique approach developed by Xia that directly addresses the health benefits of Tai Chi, without the complexity of traditional martial arts training. While Tai Chi is often taught as a martial art, Seven Mountains Tai Chi focuses on using its methods for physical therapy and applied wellness. This makes the practice especially helpful for those dealing with issues such as knee pain, sciatica, shoulder discomfort, fatigue, lack of focus, and balance problems. Students can begin experiencing the benefits of Tai Chi from the very first class, making it a powerful and accessible practice for people of all ages and fitness levels.
Michael Xia Chongyi’s Expertise and Experience
Xia is a respected figure in the world of Tai Chi, known as the first Westerner to be inducted into the formal Daoist lineage of the Wudang Mountains in China, the birthplace of Tai Chi. With over 35 years of martial arts experience, Xia has been practicing Tai Chi for more than 20 years and teaching it for 15. His expertise and understanding of Tai Chi have shaped the philosophy and curriculum at Seven Mountains Tai Chi, where the focus is on wellness, healing, and personal growth.
A Unique and Engaging Class Experience
At Seven Mountains Tai Chi, students don’t have to wait years to experience the benefits of Tai Chi. Through the specially designed 6-week program, participants begin feeling the positive effects right away. The program includes:
- Self-Massage and Joint Nourishing Exercises
- Breathing and Mindfulness Practices
- Tai Chi as Moving Meditation
By the end of the program, participants have developed a complete practice routine that they can continue on their own, with the added benefit of a supportive community that encourages lifelong learning and progress.
A Permanent School in Downtown State College
Before the pandemic in 2020, Xia was a traveling teacher, holding workshops around the world and spending time in Mexico during his downtime. However, after experiencing the incredible support from the local community in State College, Xia decided to invest in a permanent space. Initially holding classes in Tudek Park and later utilizing studio space at Tempest Productions, Seven Mountains Tai Chi now has its own dedicated school, located under the Shandygaff in downtown State College. This permanent location allows the community to come together and practice Tai Chi in a welcoming and supportive environment.
What Visitors Can Expect at Seven Mountains Tai Chi
Seven Mountains Tai Chi offers a wide range of experiences, from wellness-focused classes to traditional martial arts workshops. Visitors can expect:
- Wellness and Martial Arts Classes
- Annual Retreats and Seminars
- A Supportive Community
Upcoming Events and Workshops
Seven Mountains Tai Chi has several exciting events planned for the future:
- Daytime Tai Chi Begins March 18th | Tuesday & Thursdays | 10-11am
- Wu-Tang Sword Introductory Afternoon Workshop: March 22nd | 2-5pm
- Taoist Meditation Weekend Seminar: April 5-6 | 6 workshops for introductory meditation
- Beginning Evening Tai Chi Begins May 19th | 6-7pm
World Tai Chi Day: A Free Community Experience
On Saturday, April 26th, from 9-11 AM in the MLK Plaza (Fraser Street), Seven Mountains Tai Chi will celebrate World Tai Chi Day with a free event, welcoming all local Tai Chi teachers and practitioners. This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone interested in Tai Chi to join the community, share in the experience, and deepen their practice.
Enjoy the Benefits
Seven Mountains Tai Chi is not just a school—it’s a community built around wellness, healing, and personal transformation. Whether someone is looking to improve their physical health, find mental clarity, or experience the meditative benefits of Tai Chi, the school offers a welcoming space for people of all levels. With the guidance of Michael Xia Chongyi and the support of a dedicated group of practitioners, students can embark on a journey of lifelong learning and self-improvement.
Visit Seven Mountains Tai Chi’s website for more information and give them a follow on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date on new classes and events.