Tai Chi is considered to be one of the internal styles of Chinese martial art, and is the most widely practiced martial art in the world today. The term "Tai Ji" refers to the ancient Chinese cosmological concept of the interplay between two opposite yet complementary forces (Yin and Yang) as being the foundation of creation.
Tai Chi (also written as T'ai Chi, Taiji, Tai Chi Chuan, among others) is a slow-motion, moving meditative exercise for relaxation, health and self-defense.
History of Tai Chi
Tai Chi has its origins in Taoism and Martial Arts. Tai Chi Chuan means "Supreme Ultimate Boxing." The "Supreme Ultimate" here refers to the Tao, or more specifically, the framework within which the dualities of Yin and Yang manifest themselves in the field of time. The character Chuan refers to a school or method of boxing or combat. Therefore, it can be said that Tai Chi Chuan, as it was originally conceived, contains a sophisticated method of fighting based on the reconciliation of dynamically interacting forces. Structurally speaking then, the Tai Chi Chuan practitioner seeks to neutralize his opponent's use of force before applying a countering force of his own. In this give and take, this interplay of energies, Tai Chi finds its highest expression.
People for practicing Tai Chi
If you're trying to improve your general health, you may find tai chi helpful as part of your program. Tai Chi is generally safe for people of all ages and levels of fitness. Studies have shown that for older adults tai chi can improve balance and reduce the risk of falls. Because the movements are low impact and put minimal stress on your muscles and joints, tai chi is appealing to many older adults. For these same reasons, if you have a condition such as arthritis or you're recovering from an injury, it will be useful.
Benefits of Tai Chi
Tai Chi hasn't been studied scientifically until recently. Preliminary research shows that for older adults, in particular, practicing Tai Chi regularly may:
Improve balance and coordination, reducing the number of falls
Improve sleep quality, such as staying asleep longer at night and feeling more alert during the day
Slow bone loss in women following menopause
Reduce high blood pressure
Improve cardiovascular fitness
Relieve chronic pain
Improve everyday physical functioning
Types of Tai Chi
In China, there are various styles of Tai Chi Chuan, and these different styles are designed by different people. Among these styles, there are about five ones can be regarded as the most popular ones, including Chen-style Tai Chi Chuan, Yang Style Tai Chi Chuan, Wu Style Tai Chi Chuan, Wu Yuxiang Style Tai Chi Chuan and Sun Style Tai Chi Chuan.
How to learn Tai Chi
To gain the full benefits of Tai Chi and reduce the small risk of injury, learn the correct way to do the postures and movements. Strict attention to your body position and breathing are critical, so it's best to study directly under a teacher rather than with a book or videotape. As you attend a series of classes, the instructor can give you personal guidance and correct any errors in your approach before they become habit. As you practice, you learn how to do tai chi without straining your muscles and joints. Once you're comfortable with the tai chi basics, you can do it by yourself.
Plan a trip to China
Apply for a visa to China
Book flights
Rent a house in China
Enroll a Chinese language school
Enroll a Chinese calligraphy class
Find a Chinese kungfu school
