I studied with Sifu Chris for a period of several years a while back. He was a superb teacher, very knowledgeable, easy going, and able to transmit information very easily. I also like that his approach is very grounded and practical. My schedule got a little crazy and I wasn't able to take class from him. I recommend him very highly to anyone wanting to learn Tai Chi. read more

YES! Say "YES" to Tai Chi with Chris Nelson! Not only is he steeped in knowledge of the physical, mental, spiritual, and metaphysical aspects of this wonderful martial art, he is such a skillful, graceful practitioner and an UTTERLY AMAZING TEACHER, with patience, intuition, and an abundance of enthusiasm and good humor. I came to his classes through a series of happy accidents and a quick Google search once I finally figured out what I needed: Tai Chi in Silver Lake, oh YES! Hidden Tai Chi?!? So cool! I started attending classes nearly two years ago as a step in the process of trying to fix my semi-broken body, psyche, and my whole historical self, wanting to change my self-image, my internal conversation about who I was and what I could and couldn't do...and there was this kind, joyful, and patient man in the park, sitting on a blanket, and ready to go to work with me and anyone/everyone else who showed up, I don't know how I could recommend Chris and his classes more: he listens to everyone and makes gentle, non-judgmental assessments of his students (who may change from week to week), and then provides the perfect class, on the fly, every time, giving us exactly what we need, always encouraging us to move beyond our comfort zone. I go to Chris's classes feeling excited and hopeful; I leave feeling fulfilled, enriched, and grounded. The lessons I've learned with Chris have seriously changed my perspective and given me skills that I value highly. I am so grateful to have this wonderful teacher in my life! read more

I've taken class with Chris for many years. He works at your level. I've seen him teach people with bad injuries just as well as people with a lifetime of martial arts knowledge. He's very kind and this class will transform your life. I know that I would not be in such a good place in my day to day life if it wasn't for this class. You come thinking you'll learn some cool meditation techniques but you learn SO much more! I feel much more confident as a woman walking alone as well. I feel stronger and more stable. I've had many times I've felt threatened living in NYC and DTLA but now after this class I'm not scared, I feel like I literally have a fighting chance. Which wasn't even the reason I started going!!! Just an AMAZING side effect. Confidence. You won't regret this for a minute. Come with a beginners mind no matter your level and you'll learn so much. read more

Chris is a thoughtful, knowledgeable teacher. He brings the information down to the level that each of us needed to comprehend the moves and the theory behind the moves. I learned so much from him. The Silverlake group meets in a park setting... which is wonderful. Every morning we breath in Nature's best essence as we move to timeless rhythms. read more

I had a lot of misconceptions about Tai Chi until starting classes with Chris. He is one of the most patient and kind human beings I have ever met! He explains everything thoroughly--from the theory behind a set of moves to the practical use of what he's teaching us. I've learned a lot about how I'm breathing, finding my center and moving with fluid control instead of being all over the place. The meditative nature of his classes have also helped me cut down on my anxiety a great deal. Two thumbs up and a whole lot of gratitude. read more

I'm still new to this but it has been wonderful thus far! Chris is a wonderful teacher and there's a great group of regulars as well. Tai Chi is a beautiful way to start your day. It's outdoors, it's relaxing but also challenging. And it's pay-what-you-can ($10 suggested). So it's extremely affordable. Plus we start and end each class by drinking tea! Cannot recommend highly enough. read more

Chris is a really excellent teacher. He tailors the instruction to whatever level you're at and is a vast repository of practical and spiritual wisdom. Having studied tai chi elsewhere previously, I find Chris's approach particularly compelling in that he places a large emphasis on application and devotes the Friday classes to Push Hands (freeform application of the tai chi postures with a partner/opponent). The class itself is really good vibes with a great little community of regulars and enjoyable tea and conversation before and after class. Highly highly highly recommended. read more

Wow! First day and I can already tell a difference. It's like Chris flipped the on switch in my mind and body. Focusing has been easier today and the gentle stretching and movement have relieved some joint pain I was experiencing. The other students are friendly and welcoming and the tea at the beginning and end is lovely. So happy to have found this class! read more

Chris is a great teacher. No ego. No cult of personality. He just wants to share his deep knowledge with anyone - regardless of level - who wants to learn TaiChi. Let me repeat: he's a born teacher who feels good when his students improve. Can't get better than that. So come for the TaiChi, but also stay to learn about its deeper principles and history. After three months my TaiChi has rapidly improved as I've learned so much that has changed my life. My posture has even changed. read more