That is what they are already doing to themselves. I expect respect. I expect their attention. I tell them they need to show me an open mind and a positive attitude in order to do well. Group always begins with a quick review of what T ai Chi is, why we do it in our program and what their expectations are.
Group always ends with the same qigong set.
Clear expectations and consistency lead to security. The middle part of group is open for all kinds of possibilities. Once a month, I use the time to tell a story from the martial arts tradition for discussion. Sometimes I adapt a story into play form to be read and acted out. Another week, we might go over simple pressure points and self-massage for general health.