Tai chi is an ancient "internal" Chinese martial art which focuses on developing spiritual or mental aspects of the self. Many people practice tai chi for health reasons, though. According to the Mayo Clinic, tai chi---which is noncompetitive, self-paced and involves gentle movements and stretching---may offer you the following health benefits: stress reduction, anxiety and depression reduction, improved balance, flexibility and strength, improved sleep quality, lowered blood pressure, increased energy and agility and decreased chronic pain. Tai chi is also touted to promote weight loss, an assertion that's caught the attention of a western audience seeking weight loss alternatives.
How it Works
According to the website HateWeight.com, tai chi promotes weight loss by making you more aware of your internal strength and by stimulating your mind/body connection. Tai chi helps increase your muscular strength and flexibility, speeds up your metabolism, enhances your circulation and helps eliminate negative emotions which might be blocking your ability to lose weight. Tai chi's natural approach to weight loss is enjoyable, attainable and sustainable, and many who practice this gentle martial art---which has been likened to a slow-moving ballet---report a renewed sense of joy and vitality in their lives.
Who Can Do It
According to the Mayo Clinic, most forms of tai chi are gentle and suitable for anybody interested in losing weight. Tai chi can be practiced regardless of your age, weight or past history of exercise participation, and is an ideal activity for older adults, especially, who may find the high impact nature of conventional exercise methods unappealing. Tai chi is also accessible because it's inexpensive, does not require you to purchase additional equipment and can be performed anywhere, either in a supportive group setting or by yourself. Before you begin a weight loss program that incorporates tai chi, consider speaking with your primary health provider, especially if you're pregnant, have advanced osteoporosis, joint pain or heart conditions.
Get Started
There are plenty of books and videos that can teach you about tai chi, but in order for you to reap the full benefits of participation and learn the techniques properly, you should consider finding a licensed tai chi instructor who will guide you in the early phases of your study. A tai chi instructor can teach you about the nuances of each position, and she can teach you how to practice this martial art safely, which is particularly important if you have concerns about a past or current injury or problems with balance and coordination. In order for you to maximize your weight loss benefits through the practice of tai chi, consider incorporating tai chi into your daily routine.
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