Master Your Energy With Simple Tai Chi Movements
Tai Chi is a form of martial art that began in China. Tai Chi, also referred to as qi gong focuses on total harmony of mind and body and has been used for centuries in conjunction with a variety of alternative medicines.
It is often called “moving meditation” in some circles because when practiced correctly, the person performing Tai Chi will move his/her body gently, slowly, while remaining fully aware of his her surroundings and inhaling deeply.
Tai Chi has become increasingly popular in the US over the past couple of decades and there are many schools and programs available for people who would like to learn Tai Chi.
Background of Tai Chi
There are many different theories as to the history of Tai Chi. The most popular gives credit to a Taoist Monk, Chang San-Feng, who is said to have created a series of thirteen exercises which were intended to mimic the movements of certain animals.
In addition, the concept of external force, or aggression that is often seen in other forms of martial arts was completely contrasted with his theory of the power of internal force and meditation.
In the beginning Tai Chi was formed as a means of self defense but the concept was very radical and it harnessed the capabilities of the mind and the energy that could be created through that power. Tai Chi has been translated over the centuries in a variety of ways.
Originally it is believed that it was called “Tai Chi Chuan.” Some have called it “Supreme Ultimate Fist,” and it is often referred to as “Taiji” as well as “Qi Gong,” as mentioned earlier.
Chi Energy
What is exactly is Chi energy? The short answer is that it is the force which powers everything. It is very difficult to clearly define Chi energy but most martial artists understand most of the basic principles involved with it. Chi, also called Qi refers to the energy of the whole universe in its most natural form.
This energy encompasses everything, all matter, everything from the tiniest molecules and atoms to the most sizable stars and planets. All of these things and everything in between are composed of energy. This energy is believed to be the most vital life force and the very thing that provides vigor to everything in existence.
Essentially, a good summary of Chi would be the force that allows us to live, breathe and move. It is the driving force behind gravity, it is the energy that causes electricity to become electric and it is our awareness of all the inner and outer realms.
Where is Tai Chi Practiced?
Most of the time, you can see Tai Chi being practiced in groups at various parks. In addition, there are several martial arts centers that offer classes to those who want to learn Tai Chi.
Most of the time Tai Chi is recommended as something that should be done early in the morning hours, prior to starting the day.
There are a variety of different Tai Chi techniques and styles but they all use the same basic principles. All actions are associated with relaxed, slow and graceful movements that flow naturally into the next.
Posture is vital, and at all times the body is moving. The movements each have names, all of them related to nature in some way.
For example, the terms “Return to Mountain”or“Embrace Tiger” are a couple of the names given to Tai Chi movements.
Concentration and complete focus are a very important part of Tai Chi, as well as deep breathing in and out through the nose. Learning proper Tai Chi form takes practice but people generally find that once they understand the concept, this comes easily.
Benefits of Tai Chi
There are so many health benefits associated with Tai Chi that it would be impossible to list them all here. However, some of the most popular can certainly be outlined. First and foremost, the most widely regarded benefit of practicing Tai Chi is because of the positive effect it has on balance and strength.
One study, performed by the Oregon Research Institute revealed that after only 6 months, people who had been actively practicing Tai Chi had little to no problems with performing rigorous exercise as opposed to those in the study who did not perform Tai Chi.
This benefit alone helps to reduce the risk of falls and spills for elderly people who take Tai Chi. Another study showed a clear benefit which was found in patients suffering from joint stiffness due to arthritis. Tai Chi, after just several months showed promising relief to those individuals as well.
Aside from the many other unlisted benefits of Tai Chi, a boost in immunological health has also been reported as a very popular use for Tai Chi.
Tai Chi Form Basics
It is important to remember that Tai Chi is an art form. Therefore, it is something that will become easier through patience, time and practice. There are some basics in terms of form that all styles of Tai Chi will entail. For one thing it is vital that you realize that Tai Chi is not meant to break you into a sweat. It is not considered strenuous or vigorous exercise.
The significance of making sure your movements are performed very slowly and gracefully cannot be expressed enough. This will help get your body and mind in tune with one another which is the primary goal in Tai Chi. If you are disconnected in anyway, the results will not be beneficial.
With one form of Tai Chi, the motion begins in the spinal region and the works its way down into the waist, legs and feet. It then travels up throughout the body and into the arms, hands and finally to the fingers.
There are several other forms and with some of them the movement and power begin at the feet, working its way up. The best way to learn about the different types of Tai Chi and Tai Chi movement is to enroll in a class.
Where to Find Tai Chi Lessons
These days finding Tai Chi lessons can be done right from the comfort of your own living room. There are countless programs available online with full instruction done via streaming video. In addition, DVD lessons can be purchased online as well. In both cases the individual taking the lessons would follow along with the virtual instructor and mimic the movements as seen.
If you are more into interactive lessons then checking with your local community center or college to see if lessons are offered can also be helpful. Many times different communities, depending on the part of the country you live in, will offer Tai Chi lessons for no charge. In some cases, you may wish to hire a personal instructor.
It is not realistic to expect to learn everything there is to know about Tai Chi in a couple of days, weeks or even months. This art form takes some time to become acclimated to. However, people of all age groups and walks of life have reported that Tai Chi has benefited them in one way or another.
Whether a person is practicing Tai Chi to help minimize stress levels or to help strengthen the immune system, the benefits of this ancient martial art are without parallel. To learn more about Tai Chi and the many different forms, do some research on the topic. Look around and find a good avenue to begin.
Chances are you will be very pleased you took the time to find out about Tai Chi and how helpful it can be, and in so many different ways.