Types of Tai Chi and Yoga

Yoga and tai chi are both mind and body connection modalities that stress the importance of exercising the body and calming the mind. While they share similarities, there are marked differences between the two exercise forms. Both yoga and tai chi are exercise systems with a philosophical and spiritual basis and both have been linked to increased physical health and mental wellness.

Tai Chi

According to MayoClinic.com, tai chi --or tai chi chuan-- is an ancient Chinese exercise form initially used for self-defense. It has evolved into a moving meditation with flowing movements linked together with the breath. A meta-analysis performed by Arizona State University College of Nursing and Healthcare Innovation has linked Tai Chi to stress reduction and increased heath. Tai chi does not require any extra equipment and because of the gentle moves it is appropriate for most individuals. There are more than 100 different tai chi poses to choose from and an experienced teacher can help you to find an appropriate style.

Tai Chi Types

There are many styles of tai chi, each with it's own distinct flavor and set of poses. The UK Taiji Qigong Foundation lists six different tai chi styles; Chen, Yang, Sun, Lee, Guang and the Eight Diamond Form. Yang style may be the most popular style in the world because of it's simple movements and sponsorship from the Chinese government. The Chinese government publicized the simplified "24 Step Form" as a health initiative in 1956 and it is still widely used today.

Yoga

According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, yoga is an exercise and philosophic system that has it's origins in ancient India. Yoga combines physical poses -- asanas -- with breathing exercises and meditation to create a holistic health system. A study performed at the Oregon Health and Science University concluded that yoga increased mental well-being, balance and flexibility in the participants of a study regarding the health of elderly individuals.

Yoga Types

The types of yoga available are varied and many, with new styles cropping up frequently. Types of yoga vary in their intensity, structure, theme and focus. Yoga styles such as Bikram, Ashtanga and Hot Yoga focus on athletic poses in a heated room and require a high level of fitness. Gentle styles such as restorative, hatha, and yin yoga are suited for most individuals. Always check with a knowledgeable teacher before starting a yoga class to check whether the class level is appropriate for you.

Tai Chi Yoga Fusion

The fusion of tai chi and yoga is new and relatively open-ended. Some yoga studios may offer a class that merges tai chi flowing moves with the more structured yoga asanas. Meditation is present in both yoga and tai chi, so you may expect either seated or movement meditation in a tai chi yoga class. Both forms are praised for their health-sustaining properties and naturally compliment each other. In the future we may see a new form of popular exercise emerge from the fusion of tai chi and yoga.