In-Person Classes

GETTING STARTED:

Introduction to Tai Chi & Qigong

Introducing the basic principles and patterns of Tai Chi and Qigong – to build strength, balance, and agility, while nurturing resilience and serenity. Short movement patterns gradually lead into longer sequences to further challenge memory and mobility. As students begin to feel the ease of better coordination, concentration, and coherence within themselves they begin to take in the added support of group synchrony. The feeling of harmony is deepened with each step.  

"Gurney is a wonderful teacher with enough patience and some to spare for all students as they learn this form of meditative movement. Her classes combine fun with the serious job of learning something new."

"I am so happy to be studying with Gurney, learning how the Qigong supports and deepens Tai Chi practice. It has been a challenge and a joy to learn the many forms involved."

"What a difference these classes have made in my life. Tai Chi has become my favorite mindfulness practice. Deceptively simple, it takes me to a calm place that nothing else can."

"The classes have made an amazing difference in my life. Gurney’s ability to explain the specifics of movement and how this affects our bodies is extraordinary. This is helping me learn so much about my body.

CONTINUING PRACTICE:

Tai Chi, Intermediate & Advanced Forms

This class serves to deepen the practice of Tai Chi with the added challenge of more complex and lengthy movement sequences, such as Dr. Paul Lam’s Tai Chi for Arthritis and Sun Style 73 Forms. Focus, self-awareness, and confidence are deepened as students master the spatial patterns and synchronize with the group. Commitment to this practice yields a profound sense of harmony and well-being.

Location: Sunset Hills United Presbyterian Church, 900 Country Club Drive, Mt Lebanon, 15228

Time: Wednesdays 6:30-7:30pm

Dates:

    • Fall classes will resume in September

Price:

    • 8-week series: $125 for 8 classes 
    • Drop-in: $19 per class
Sign Up

LOCATION:

Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, 799 Pinkerton Run Road, Oakdale, 15071

 4 class Summer series:
    August 6, 13, 19, 27
    September 3, 10, 17, 24
Time: Thursdays 10-11am

CLASS DESCRIPTION:

Enhance your visit to the garden with the moving meditation practices of Tai Chi and Qigong (“Chee Kung”). Guided imagery will lead you through motion and stillness to explore the Daoist principles of living in harmony with nature. You will “Breathe in the Sky”, “Embrace a Tree” and “Gather from the Earth” among other traditional forms to embody the patterns and rhythms of the natural world and to deepen your connection to yourself and your surroundings. Enjoy how these gentle, self-care exercises nourish your vitality and serenity, awakening your appreciation for the vibrancy, beauty and restorative power of the garden. 

No experience or equipment needed. Classes are taught standing with some seating provided. Please wear flat, comfortable shoes, attached at the heel.

Classes will be held in Maple Court above the Garden of the Five Senses, but in case of rain we will use the cover of the Weisbrod Learning Pavilion nearby. 

 PRICE: Please register with the garden using the link to their events calendar

    • Garden Members: $80 
    • Non-Members: $100
Calendar

Location: Hamilton Presbyterian Church, 4500 Hamilton Road, Bethel Park, 15236

Time: Mondays 6:30-7:30pm OR Wednesdays 2:30-3:30pm

Dates: 

  • Spring-Summer series:
    • Mondays, 6:30 – 7:30pm, May 11, 18,  June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, July 6.  (no class May 25, Memorial Day)
    • Wednesdays, 2:30 – 3:30pm, Fall classes will resume in September
  • Late Summer series:
    • Mondays, 6:30 – 7:30pm, July 13, 20, 27, August 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
    • Wednesdays, 2:30 – 3:30pm, Fall classes will resume in September
  • Price: 
    • 8-week series: $125 for 8 classes 
    • Drop-in: $19 per class
Sign Up

"Tai Chi is not learned quickly, which can be galling at times. If you’re lucky enough to have a teacher as accomplished, kind, witty and supportive as Gurney, it may become the life-long journey it’s supposed to be -- strengthening body and mind and becoming ever more gratifying as you go along."

"I understand why Qigong has been around for thousands of years. No other form of movement encompasses the mind, body, and spirit in this way. It never ceases to amaze me the multitude of ways the body can move and the joy that follows when everything comes together."

"I’ve lived my whole life feeling like there weren’t enough hours in the day to get everything done. So, I was amazed to discover how Tai Chi had such a profound effect. I’ve finally learned what slowing down feels like! I’m more relaxed and many of the aches and pains I’ve lived with for years have slowly faded away."