Benefits of Tai Chi Practice
‘Tai Chi is much more than a martial art; it can actually be defined as a method of accessing and sustaining harmony with the universe’ (Roger Jahnke, ‘The Healing Promise of Qi’).
There is a saying in China that tai chi promotes: the pliability of a child, the health of a lumberjack and the peace of mind of a sage. Regular practice of tai chi puts us on the path to better health, and peace of mind. It’s benefits can be listed under three headings: health, meditation, and martial arts.
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Your Health
Tai chi is often described as “meditation in motion”, but it might well be called “medication in motion”. Harvard Medical School’s site lists a number of health issues that can be helped by tai chi when combined with standard treatment, including:
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The article notes tai chi improves: balance and flexibility; prevents falls; and eases pain; stretches joints and connective tissue; strengthens muscles; encourages slow deep breathing; has meditative mind-calming qualities; incorporates visualisation and imagery; promotes relaxation and socialisation.
"There is growing evidence that this mind-body practice, which originated in China as a martial art, has value in treating or preventing many health problems" |
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Meditation
Tai chi is a form of meditation in motion. We practice form and partnerwork mindfully, placing our awareness on our experience in the present moment. In this way our body, breath and mind quieten, offering the potential to see more clearly how things are. Martial Art Tai chi chuan’s origins lie in the martial arts, and the ancient energy practices of Taoist monasteries. While the martial aspect is not the focus of our approach, diligent practice of the form and partner work can develop in us some foundational martial qualities. With practice we may increase our abilities at: coordinated movement from the ground, rootedness and footwork; balance and timing; understanding through touch an opponent’s energy and intention; yielding to and neutralising an incoming force; and relaxed, alert awareness. In all these ways, health, meditation and martial art, tai chi can offer benefits with regular, consistent practice. Gradually, gradually, as a lifelong path. |
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