Matthew has studied with many teachers; the majority of his Tai Chi Training comes from his teacher and good friend Don Miller. Matthew has spent 19 years learning Tai Chi form, push hands, chi kung, and combat applications from Don Miller. Don a 4 national push hands champion is respected nationwide for his innovative teaching method and Don has had many teachers and influences in his 35 years practicing Tai Chi. However, his main teacher in the 1970’s and 1980’s was TT Liang who was an amazing martial artist and teacher. TT lived over 100 years. He was a painter, writer, trained with over a dozen famous martial teachers including professor Cheng Man Ching.

TT was Cheng's senior student and spent the most time with him. Professor was known to be of a very high skill level in painting, poetry, calligraphy, medicine, and martial arts.

Tai Chi at Sacred Energy Arts combines both traditional and progressive methods. The basic form derives from Cheng Man Ching, the renowned Tai Chi master who taught in New York City in the 1960’s and 1970’s, himself a student of the legendary Yang Cheng Fu, 3rd generation of the Yang Family. Chang’s Tai Chi emphasizes deep root, complete release of tension, softening the body, and vertical alignment. To this basic structure of movement and energetic principles, Matthew brings elements of related arts- Kung Fu, Chi Kung, Dance and Yoga – to make the movement of Tai Chi come alive on many levels.

One can expect to finish a Tai Chi class at Sacred Energy Arts feeling calmer, stronger, more relaxed, energized in a soft way, and more open in heart, mind and spirit.

What is the difference between Tai Chi and Chi Kung?

Tai Chi is an internal martial art. It has many of the same benefits as Chi Kung such as stress reduction and energy cultivation. And it incorporates many Chi Kung practices. However, Tai Chi is also a fighting system of the highest quality and martial use. Chi Kung is purely a system of health and self-development without any elements of self-defense or combat.

Do I have to study and practice martial arts if I practice Tai Chi?

No. Tai Chi can be practiced solely for its great health benefits.

What is the best age to begin practicing Tai Chi?

People of all ages practice Tai Chi. Young people and athletes often gain the most from Tai Chi because they can feel the benefits immediately in their daily activities and sports. However, it is an art that benefits middle aged and elderly enormously, as it is invigorating without exhausting and cultivates strength and flexibility without impact

Can Tai Chi be a vigorous practice?

Absolutely. Tai Chi is an intricate set of movements. Practicing slowly and safely you can get an amazing work out from Tai Chi.