Welcome
to Tai Chi Chuan/Qigong:
Tai Chi Chuan,
or simply Tai Chi (because there are two translations of the Chinese
language it is also written Taijiquan, or Taiji), was self-defense
skills. Most commonly practiced today for its amazing health benefits,
this slow, graceful Chinese exercise simultaneously heals the physical,
mental, emotional, and spiritual body. It is performed with a completely
focused yet relaxed attitude. Tai Chi forms involve a series of
choreographed martial arts poses that flow together, like a slow motion
dance. They are done in a precise order to help facilitate energy flow,
fitness, relaxation and mental concentration. Tai Chi encompasses several
styles or forms, and over its long history, many interpretations of these
styles have emerged, resulting in numerous variations in form. Most
traditional forms take 12-20 minutes to perform and over one year to
learn. There are also many simplified forms, which take much less
time to learn, make it more accessible to a greater number of people, and
are a great way to get your "feet wet," while still providing many health
benefits. The moves are simple, gentle, and easy to learn. They require no
special skill, clothing, or equipment and can be done anywhere: indoors,
outdoors, alone or with a group.
Who Can
Do Tai Chi?
Students of Tai
Chi are referred to as Tai Chi "players," and they come in all shapes,
sizes, ages and fitness levels. Because of the slowness and ease of the
movements, it is often thought that Tai Chi is mainly for senior citizens,
but that is a false assumption. It can benefit the fittest athlete just as
much as the weekend golfer, the teenager, or the arthritis sufferer--and,
it can even be practiced by those in wheelchairs. In fact, studies show
that even watching others "play" Tai Chi can reduce blood pressure in the
observer. Athletes find greater balance, flexibility and more
connectedness on a mind-body level, which helps with any sport. Companies
see that Tai Chi improves productivity by helping employees to be happy,
relaxed, and creative. Hospitals see Tai Chi as a potent, yet
cost-effective, therapy for nearly any condition. Schools find improved
concentration and higher test scores. Even if you think you're not
coordinated or agile, you can learn these movements at your own
pace.