Tai Chi

We're delighted to welcome Emma Young from Emma Young Tai Chi to deliver Tai Chi Chuan classes here at Duncan Place. Tai Chi Chuan is a combination of gentle movements in time with the breath, that can be practiced by people of all ages and body types. This is a beginners class, so no previous experience is necessary.

People are very welcome to drop in when they can, as we will spend time every week doing some warm up and breathing exercises as well as learning the form.

The benefits of Tai Chi are evident from the first lesson, and regular practice calms the mind, relaxes and strengthens the body and improves balance, concentration, and flexibility.

Thanks to our community event fund, we are able to offer these classes at a reduced price of £5 per session. Classes can be paid for here on Eventbrite when signing up, however please be aware that Eventbrite add £0.98 admin fee when you are paying.

You can also pay for classes in person at Duncan Place by cash or by BACS transfer. If you would rather do this, please sign up to the class by emailing Drew Bain at Duncan Place on [email protected] or by phone on 0131 364 4353. If I'm not available leave a message and I'll get back to you when I can.

Classes will be held weekly on Thursday mornings at 9:15am during Edinburgh school term time, e.g.; there will be no class on Thursday 20th October.

**Please arrive five minutes beforehand so classes can start on time.**

Please wear loose, comfortable clothes.

Tai Chi has the optimum physical and mental benefits if practised when standing. With time, people who may initially find it hard to stand for the whole session will build up strength and stamina. If you are unable to stand, or use a wheelchair, you can still take part in the breathing, relaxation, and upper body movements. Emma will ask at the beginning of each class if anyone has any mobility difficulties or long-term conditions and speak with them privately if they wish.

I have been learning Tai Chi since 1987, primarily the Long Yang Form, which is many centuries old and combines martial arts moves with the "chi", or the life energy, that is always within and around us.

During the pandemic, I decided to start teaching in Leith, as I felt passionate about helping local people to feel better physically and mentally. My teaching style is inclusive and encouraging; we focus on the body and on our breath, gradually letting tension melt away and bringing our thoughts to the present moment.

I also incorporate my professional experience in the field of mental health, helping students to develop strategies that reduce anxiety and promote well being.

The event will be held on the ground floor and is wheelchair accessible.

There are two individual toilets on the ground floor with one being wheelchair accessible.

If there is anything we can do to help you attend, or if you have any questions, please get in touch with Drew at Duncan Place by email on [email protected]

Duncan Place is a few minutes’ walk from Leith Walk, Duke Street, Great Junction Street and Easter Road. This area is very well served with buses, including 1, 7, 14, 16, 21, 22, 25, 34, 35, 42 & 49 www.lothianbuses.com has a journey planner.

Bike racks are available in our outdoor space. Please bring a secure lock. We do not have any to loan out & bikes and scooters are not allowed in the building. Bikes and scooters are left at your own risk and Duncan Place will not accept any responsibility for any damage or theft. CCTV does cover the bike racks.

Duncan Place has 1 disabled parking space and 1 further space, both available on a first come basis.

Free on street parking is available in the surrounding streets. This is busy so please leave enough time to find a space.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Duncan Place Community Hub & Enterprise, 4 Duncan Place, Leith, United Kingdom