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T'ai chi or T'ai Chi Ch'uan: Less stress, better balance |
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Written by Chan Lee
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Sometimes called “moving meditation,” T’ai Chi has been regarded as a martial art, and its traditional practitioners still teach it as one. It has developed a worldwide following among many thousands of people for purposes of health and longevity. T'ai Chi theory and practice is centered on the principles of traditional Chinese medicine. Its benefits include health maintenance and stress management.
Originally developed in China as a form of self-defense, this graceful form of exercise has existed for about 2,000 years. Tai chi training first and foremost involves learning solo routines, known as forms. And while the image of T’ai Chi in popular culture is typified by exceedingly slow movement, many styles (including the three most popular, Yang, Wu and Chen) have secondary forms of a faster pace. The other half of traditional tai chi training (though many modern schools disregard it entirely) are partner exercises known as pushing hands, as well as martial applications of the postures of the form.
It's becoming increasingly popular around the world, both as a basic exercise program and as a complement to other health care methods. According to the Mayo Clinic, health benefits include stress reduction, greater balance and increased flexibility — especially for older adults.
Some of the physical and mental benefits include:
- Reduced stress
- Greater flexibility
- Better muscle tone and definition
- Improved energy, stamina and agility
- Better mental attitude
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