T’ai chi, also called t’ai chi chu’an, has been in practice in China for thousands of years.
In China, both small and large groups gather daily to practice t’ai chi in parks. Everyone is welcome to join in.
Here in the US, t’ai chi is becoming more popular, too.
Some progressive companies encourage their employees to practice t’ai chi to relieve stress and improve productivity.
If you’ve never tried t’ai chi, you will want to learn after hearing everything it can do for you.
T’ai chi is a form of low impact aerobics based on martial arts. From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, its slow, dance-like movements help clear the body’s meridians and promote the flow of Qi (life energy).
T’ai chi is performed silently, encouraging a calm focus. Along with graceful postures that flow into each other, t’ai chi uses controlled, deep breathing to help balance the mind and body.
As exercise, t’ai chi uses stretching along with classic movements and postures. It promotes flexibility, balance, and strength. Still, it’s gentle enough for the very young and elderly to practice.
T’ai chi is self-paced, non competitive, and extremely versatile. It requires no equipment, can be done anywhere, and can be practiced alone or in a group.
Adopting a t’ai chi practice is both revitalizing and meditative. For some people, performing t’ai chi is their daily meditation.
As a form of mind-body healing, there is a spiritual component to t’ai chi.
Healers use t’ai chi to connect with nature, and increase the body’s innate ability to heal itself. Very advanced practitioners are even able to affect Qi and healing from a distance.
You can often feel a strong current flowing when holding hands in a circle with an experienced leader. I have felt this myself and it was powerful!
If you’re interested in learning T’ai chi, look for classes in your community or explore online tutorials.
Try not to get discouraged if t’ai chi feels awkward at first. With practice, you will catch on.
Over time, your muscles will remember the movements. T’ai chi will feel more natural and energizing each day.
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