Tai chi 太極拳

Tai chi is simply a form of exercise, which consists of slow, intentional movements, practiced with attention to specific key principles, such as keeping the body relaxed and the transferring of all of the body weight from one leg to another, which stimulates the movement of ‘chi’ (or energy) around the body. It is the movement of this energy that is said to provide benefits to health.

The steady flow of one movement into the next can be seen as Yin Yang, represented by the well known symbol below.

Practising Tai Chi offers so many health benefits; here are just a few:-

* Helps to strengthen legs and provide better flexibility in the hips
* Improves balance and coordination, hence helping to prevent falls
* Helps to reduce stress levels and anxiety and improves your mood
* Aids management of chronic pain in conditions such as arthritis
* Boosts the immune system
* Helps improve sleep

What cannot be underestimated is the positive impact and influence of the social aspect of Tai Chi. There is something special in sharing the process of learning Tai Chi and practising it together in the class. You will meet new people and form new friendships. The support and fun that you get with your fellow ‘Players’ is really beneficial to your mental health.

There are many different types of Tai Chi but we practice the Chen Man-Ching style of Form, which was developed by Chen Man-Ching himself. It is often referred to as a ‘moving meditation’, as the the process of learning the various postures absorbs the mind, freeing you of the day to day worries, as you totally focus on the task in hand.

It’s time to step outside your comfort zone and just try it! What do you have to lose?! feel free to Contact Us for more information.

This article from the Daily Telegraph may be of interest...