Review of Yang Style Workshop
Given by Gordon Muir
August 1st and 2nd, 2009
In Regina, Sask., Canada
Gordon Muir’s workshop, although tremendously educational and challenging, seemed more play than work. His anecdotal stories of past and present masters, and relaying of personal experiences, made the lessons even more interesting and unifying.
Gordon is an accomplished practitioner of T’ai Chi - worthy of the title ‘Master’ – with admirable communication skills that are very valuable in this setting. The clarity of his message was constantly reinforced with repetition, feedback, and demonstration. While firmly guiding us as the leader, personable Gordon still felt like a part of the group – we were very much at ease with him all weekend, both during the workshop and after hours.
The workshop fulfilled its promises of content and provided us with excellent demonstrations, which we captured on video for future reference. Gordon’s infinite patience was evident, as he was trying to impart some very serious T’ai Chi concepts to a group that knew “we’re not worthy!”, but tries hard!
We now have plenty of reflection to do on our Yang Long Form, thanks to Gordon’s insights concerning joint rotation and body-to-ground connection. I must admit to being floored by both the simplicity and the complexity of his long form – clearly well worth years of study and practice! Gordon also worked with us through the Cane (Short Club) form. He again did an excellent job of explaining, describing, and demonstrating, as well as responding and evaluating. I feel that I gained a great deal of knowledge from our interaction; knowledge that will enable me to move further forward in my T’ai Chi practice.
Overall, our weekend was very rewarding, thought-provoking and yes, fun! Gordon Muir is an outstanding human being with the good of the world in his intentions and a twinkle in his eye. T’ai Chi is indeed a long and winding road.
By Terry Gunnlaugson
Queen City T’ai Chi Chuan group
