Tai Chi and Your Health

Tai Chi is a popular form of exercise based on the principles of martial arts. I personally do not practice Tai Chi, but I have always been intrigued by it. It has been recommended by a few health consultants for me to pick up, but like most people it is finding the time and energy to find space in my calendar. I hope one day to bring it up on my priority list. In my reading and interest level, I thought it would be interesting to share what I do know about Tai Chi with you in hopes that maybe through my writing and sharing I may one day get closer to embracing this practice.

What I have learned is that Tai Chi combines breathing and relaxation techniques with low-impact physical movements. Its roots can be traced to both the ancient Indian practice of yoga and a martial arts-like technique practiced by the Taoist monk Chang Sang Feng in ancient China.

Tai Chi is based on the belief our well-being depends on the free flow of chi or life force energy in the body. I believe this one point is what resonates with me so readily, as it is in alignment with the practice of Reiki Therapy. The exercise forms focus on the interaction between the mind, body and spirit. The movements are designed to allow chi to flow through our body in a balanced manner. The idea is to use the power of the mind to bring about a positive change in one’s physical, mental and spiritual health.

The following are the most common forms of Tai Chi practiced today.

The Long Form

This has 108 movements involving breathing, posture alignment and balance-related exercises. These movements are divided into three stages.

The Short Form

As the name suggests, it is a shorter version of the long form, comprising only 24 of the 108 movements. It is physically less demanding and is ideal for beginners.

The Sword Form

This comprises 32 movements divided into four stages. The sword form involves more aspects of martial arts than the two forms listed above. It focuses on hand positions wherein the practitioner has to imagine she is holding a sword.

The Push Hand Form

Practicing this form requires a partner. The push hand form involves several offensive and defensive principles of martial arts and is perhaps the most interesting of the four.

Benefits

So, the exercise sounds great! But what are the benefits, you may ask? Here’s a short list.

• Tai chi is believed to be an excellent stress-busting techniques and is often recommended to people who have high-pressure jobs or suffer from anxiety-related problems. When Tai Chi was originally recommended to me, I was in a high-stress corporate position; had I stayed in such, I think I would have already embraced it to support a better balance in my life.
• Tai Chi is also considered to be beneficial for people suffering from insomnia and high blood pressure.
• Since it is a low-impact work out, practicing Tai Chi can also help people suffering from arthritis and balance problems improve their conditions.
• It is believed to improve the body’s immunity and protect its practitioners from common diseases.
• Regular practice of Tai Chi can also do wonders for your energy levels. It is, in fact, considered great exercise for people who suffer from chronic fatigue.

It is my understanding from those I do know who embrace Tai Chi in their lives that the best thing about Tai Chi is it is easy to learn and great fun to practice, once you get the hang of it.

Until next time, embrace your inner wisdom.

Namaste,
Karen