Enrolling at Enso Tai Chi is one of the best things I've ever done for myself! After beating up my joints dancing for hours every week for several years, I followed my doctor's advice and began attending Chris' classes to learn Dragon and Tiger qigong in order to support the healing of my body. My doctor had learned this form of qigong from Chris years ago and highly recommended his instruction. I also happen to be an MD who does functional medicine and have heard for years about the innumerable benefits of qigong and decided I should do more of what I recommend to my patients! I was particularly interested in the Dragon and Tiger form of qigong, as I'd read in a book by Chris' instructor, the high-level master Bruce Frantzis, that this set is easy to learn compared with the complex systems which require an enormous expenditure of time and effort to master. Frantzis had written that Dragon and Tiger was the most effective medical qigong system he found that was not only easily learned but also provided all the main health benefits associated generally with qigong, such as strengthening the immune system, decreasing stress, and ameliorating the effects of chronic disease. As a typically overextended American, I was eager to reap some of the benefits of qigong as quickly as possible without having to first practice for hours, days, weeks, and months! Of course, as Chris emphasizes in class and in his newsletters, a little regular practice is key in enabling us to increasingly cultivate the energy connections between the hands and the body, however! I dove right in at the beginning of the year and have now taken quite a few of Chris' tai chi and qigong classes in the large, light-filled space conveniently located walking distance from my office in the Loop. I also took several weekend Dragon and Tiger workshops in order to speed up my pace of learning a bit. I've found that Chris is really expert in explaining and teaching the movements and forms so that his students are continually deepening their understanding of the practice, no matter what level of experience they have. He's incredibly patient, calming, observant, and humorous as he instructs. He comes around to each student and makes helpful comments and adjustments so that we protect our joints and align our bodies to allow more optimal flow of qi. And just watching the beautiful way he executes the moves makes me instantly relax and feel peaceful! He does it so well you can almost see and feel the way he moves energy around with his hands. He's also generous with his time, which I appreciate as he must be very busy with the rest of his life and with being a lawyer when he's not helping us learn ancient healing and health maintenance techniques! Clearly, Chris enjoys imparting his considerable knowledge about qigong and tai chi to us, and I have to say I feel very privileged in having access to his instruction. As a bonus, I'm taking unlimited classes for 3 months at $225 ($250 if not auto-renewing with credit card), which works out for me to be less than $5 a class! After a few months, perhaps I may be able to add the more advanced class on Friday afternoons, which would mean I'd be paying only $3.75 a class, which is really an incredible deal. No doubt I'd be happy to pay much more to be in these classes! read more

4 and a half years ago I began studying Wu Style Tai Chi and Qigong with Chris Cinnamon at Chicago Tai Chi because at the age of 56 I was suffering from a variety of issues affecting my professional and personal life. They ranged from: -- Cervical (two bulging herniated discs,) thoracic (T1-4 injuries) and lumbar spine issues (I was hit by 60 pounds of concrete that fell two stories in 1983) - chronic pain made it difficult for me to sit or stand for any length of time. -- Reflex Symphathetic Dystrophy - nerve pain in my arms, hands, and feet -- Knee pain (tore my PCL and meniscus in 1976 - three surgeries in the 80s and 90s left me with very little cartilage and an unstable knee). -- I've also had surgery on my left shoulder (slap tear/labrum), right elbow (two ulnar nerve transpositions due to radial head fracture), right wrist (ganglion cysts), arthritic pain in my hands that forced me to stop my event photography business as I could no longer hold a camera for any length of time. -- PTSD - I was an air traffic controller who was involved in a near mid-air incident (I received an award for my actions) but suffered a stroke-like event two years later while working at a radar scope, ending my career and sending me into a bit of a spiral. Again, I was suffering, losing function, and on a bad wellness path. Western medicine had taken me as far as it could and I knew that I needed to find a system that could help me take back control of my life. I zeroed in on Qigong/Tai Chi as a practice that I believed could give me the best chance to accomplish my goal. After a thorough search I came across the Energy Arts System. It caught my eye because it is Taoist system based on the Water Method. It's soft and gentle practices seemed like a good fit for my current physical and mental states. Master Bruce Frantzis brought the system to the US and luckily for me one of his senior students, Chris Cinnamon owner of Chicago Tai Chi, was teaching in Chicago. Over the past 4.5 years I have benefited greatly from training with Chris. I no longer suffer from the conditions outlined above. I'm not saying that I'm fixed or cured but I can say that my quality of life, on every level, has improved greatly as a result of having developed a regular Qigong/Tai Chi practice. Chris Cinnamon's dedication to the art, his students, and local community is inspiring. He's a gifted instructor (former Air Force Aviator and Attorney) with the unique ability to teach to all levels, from beginner to seasoned practitioners, creating a comfortable and engaging environment. He offers a variety of Tai Chi and Qigong classes, private instruction, and corporate programs. I am grateful for the chance to study with Chris Cinnamon, owner/lead instructor at Chicago Tai Chi. read more

I met Chris last November (2017) during a Marriage of Heaven and Earth Qigong workshop that was held at Chicago Tai Chi. During the workshop, I approached him about the possibility of scheduling private sessions when I'm in Chicago. After an initial phone consultation, I scheduled a few Skype and in-person sessions. During my first session with Chris, I had very limited range of motion in my neck and my shoulders were so tight I could barely raise my arms above my head. Fast forward six months and the pain in my neck and shoulders has decreased significantly and I have more range of motion in my neck. More importantly, I am becoming increasingly aware of how often I tense my shoulders and am better able to relax at will. Chris is an excellent teacher. He demonstrates a movement, breaks it down into its separate components and then reconstructs the movement in a clear, concise manner. He observes me as I perform the movement and its separate components and then suggests refinements. He encourages me to ask questions, generously offers his insights and provides feedback with patience and understanding. After each session, he follows up with an email with attached notes that summarize the items discussed and recommends areas to focus on. These notes are a great reference tool that keeps me on track between sessions. I have benefited greatly from my private sessions with Chris and I'm looking forward to continuing my training under his capable tutelage. If you're searching for someone to help you build a solid foundation in qigong, I highly recommend Chris Cinnamon and Chicago Tai Chi! read more

A Chinese massage therapist and friend (Yuxia Wang at http://NaturalElementsTherapy.com ) recommended Tai Chi as a perfect way for someone like me to stay in good physical condition, maintain balance, and have some fun. Me: A 78 year old male who likes the outdoors, rides a bicycle in summer, ice skates in winter and walks all year round, yet I worried about upper body movement and balance issues. So I took my friends advice and used the Internet to locate a Tai Chi business that I could get to easily and was highly rated. I met with Chris Cinnamon and after some discussion of needs and objectives enrolled in the Tai Chi for Balance class that meets once a week for one hour over ten weeks-- and at an attractive price. To a great extent the class exceeded my expectations in that we learned some very basic leg and arm movements, spent time on walking and a beginning Tai Chi move. After the ten weeks I took away from the class a good workout and exercise routine that I can do easily on my own in just about any space. I also learned a lot about inner self. I practice just about every day. Yes, I've signed up for the next stage: Tai Chi 1 with lots of options to fit into my schedule. read more

I have been taking private lessons with Chris Cinnamon at Chicago Tai Chi for 16 months, and it has exceeded all my expectations. I was originally referred to Chris by my physical therapist at the Rehabilitation Institute who was treating me for chronic knee and back pain. After an in-depth discussion with Chris about my goals, which included reducing pain, relieving chronic stress and trying something new, I began learning the Wu Style Short Form. In short order, I was hooked. After a few months, I wanted to go deeper and learn more, and I did Chris' Executive Transformation Program, which included learning Dragon & Tiger QiGong and Longevity Breathing, in addition to continuing to refine the Wu Style Tai Chi Form. One of the best things about the program is the unlimited access to Chris for consultation and feedback. This program was truly transformative, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who wants to explore what these combined practices can do for your mental, physical and "spiritual" well-being. I whole heartedly recommend Chicago Tai Chi! Janet R read more

I had been looking into tai chi lessons for several years and of the centers I researched, I found Chicago Tai Chi (CTC) to be the best fit for me. Chris Cinnamon, director and primary teacher at CTC, is knowledgeable, welcoming, and above all, patient in his teachings, introducing and shepherding our beginning class through this fascinating journey. An ancient Chinese art form, tai chi movements reflect the foundation of martial arts, and Chris skillfully transforms the explosive power of martial arts into the slow grace and peace of tai chi. Physically and mentally challenging to the mind and body, Chris articulately and methodically breaks down each move, enabling us to develop strength, balance, confidence and satisfaction. Also, CTC's facilities are very conducive to learning and practicing tai chi: Well-located in the Financial District, its clean, light filled, spacious studio has hardwood floors and changing/restroom accommodations. I highly recommend CTC - hope to see you there! read more

I highly recommend Chicago Tai Chi (formerly known as Enso Tai Chi). I have trained there for more than a year, after training in several different martial arts for many years. Chris Cinnamon is a uncommonly good instructor. His technique is excellent, his explanations are clear and he demonstrates technique effectively. In addition to these "technical" teaching skills, Chris is a thoughtful and patient instructor who takes a personal interest in each student. He motivates without pushing hard. It is rare to find an instructor with top marks in technical skills, communication skills, and people skills. The atmosphere at Chicago Tai Chi reflects Chris's friendly, up-beat attitude: the students are welcoming and supportive. Everyone--beginners and experienced students alike--can identify many ways in which the classes have improved their health and sense of well being. read more

I have chronic vertigo and balance issues, it was suggested by a Neurologist that I learn to practice Tai Chi to help with this. Chris Cinnamon and Chicago Tai Chi have exceeded my expectations. Being able to take the classes online and have access to an extensive video library allows me to practice in the early morning hours that I prefer. I started classes in October of 2021 and have completed the Balance Class and my first time through the Wu style short form. Chris is very dialed into his students and offers very individualized feedback in a positive manner. The Balance Class also offers strategies for winter walking that are very helpful in a harsh winter climate and uneven surfaces. The short form deepens the mind body connection and has been helpful with balance issues. I highly recommend Chris and CTC. read more

I've practiced Tai Chi on and off for a number of years, and I felt the need to seek out a sifu (instructor) after having been in Chicago for a couple of years. Chris Cinnamon is an excellent instructor for anyone new to Tai Chi and Qi Gong as well as practitioners who have a lot of experience. He takes pride in his knowledge of the forms, ability to relate to and to teach others, and in sharing his dedication to the Energy Arts. He is very approachable and easy to learn from. For those who recognize the name, Chris actively studies with Bruce Franzen, who is one of the most seasoned and knowledgeable Tai Chi and Qi Gong masters in the United States. read more

There are a number of aspects to recommend this fine tai chi center. 1) I don't think there are many tai chi teachers who have the background in basic body functionality and process that Chris Cinnamon has. It brings a fuller dimension to his teaching. 2) If you hang around here long enough (which is not long at all) you will be introduced to internal tai chi work that is rarely found elsewhere, having to do with breath, rooting, and sensitivity and awareness of internal body process. 3) This is the friendliest place. No cliques. A very sociable environment. Drop by sometime. read more

Chicago Tai Chi in the Loop has been a perfect choice for me for learning Wu Style Tai Chi, both short form and long form. I started taking class 1 year ago and have progressed through the short form and am starting the long form, while digging deeper into working the short form (with 2 classes a week). Tai Chi has made a big difference in my life, physically and emotionally. If you love a good class, a composite of amazing instruction (Chris), wonderful class camaraderie, and beautiful studio class space-I highly recommend Chicago Tai Chi. read more

I have worked with Chris Cinnamon the Founder of Chicago Tai Chi and he is a patient and highly qualified master teacher. He can teach you BOTH the outward moves but more importantly what is INSIDE tai chi that makes it one of the most powerful and healthy exercises on the planet. He also teaches various Qigong sets that can help to open up your body and mind. If you are in the Chicago area check him out...and commit to learning this amazing art with this school and great teachers! read more

I have worked with Chris Cinnamon at Chicago Tai Chi in private sessions over the past year. Not only is Chris an exceptional teacher, but his method is easy to follow and his instructions are clear, direct and effective. My balance started to improve within a few weeks and continues to improve with practice. Scheduling is flexible and Chris has online videos to assist with mastering the movements. I strongly recommend Chris Cinnamon at Chicago Tai Chi! read more

After taking a couple of disorganized introductory classes at another Tai Chi school, I discovered Chicago Tai Chi. I have attended a weekend workshop on how to use Tai Chi for knee problems and, because of the excellent, detailed, methodical and encouraging teaching, I decided to sign up for regular classes. So far, the high instructional standard that I found in the workshop continues in the classes. This appears to be the place for me. read more

This is a great place for Tai Chi and qigong. It has made a big difference in my physical and emotional well-being. The classes have helped me with my balance and have made me stronger, which is difficult but important as I am in my mid-seventies. The class requires a lot of concentration but that's one of it's appeals because you really focus. At the same time, it's possible to participate at any level--from beginner to advanced. read more

Very professional instruction in Wu style Tai Chi with individualized attention even though in a class setting. Online videos great for review and practice outside class. Chris is patient and dedicated to making sure students learn tai chi moves properly. He also adds pointers for knee health and overall well being as he instructs the form. I come away from each class with a renewed sense of calm and feeling of accomplishment. read more

I've been learning and practicing Tai Chi and Qigong with Chris Cinnamon for over 5 years. Its been both fun and fascinating. And my physical and mental well-being are significantly improved - chronic neck and shoulder pain is gone, my deteriorated discs are not even an issue anymore. As an athlete all my life, I've been amazed at this new way of exercising and thinking about my body, mind and health overall. read more

After approximately 2 months of intensive study I have learned all 27 parts of the short form wu practice of Tai Chi. There is so much yet to learn, and I am looking forward to continuing my practice remotely using FaceTime. Chris Cinnamon is a superb instructor and an inspiration to work with. I feel so fortunate to have come to Chicago Tai Chi to resume a study I began nearly 50 years ago read more

Looking for a tai chi class? Look no further than Chicago Tai Chi with Chris Cinnamon. Chris is a talented, dedicated teacher who works patiently and diligently with students, no matter what their skill levels are. His knowledge base, which he eagerly shares with everyone, is vast and impressive. It's clear how much Chris enjoys teaching and helping people progress to their potential. read more