5 Things You Need to Know About Tai Chi

1. The Ultimate Supreme Force

The original Chinese characters used to write Tai Chi translate as the "Ultimate Supreme Force." The "Ultimate Supreme" is a reference to the concept of yin and yang, the balance of dual energy which exists in all things. "Force," in the context of Tai Chi describes a manner in which each person can balance their own yin yang energy, not only to strengthen their body, but also their mind and spirit.

2. Yoga and Meditation in Motion

Tai Chi combines the concepts of yoga, martial arts and deep relaxation to create a flowing form of meditation that also works and stretches the body. Practitioners of Tai Chi believe that chi, the vital life force in all living beings, is stirred and stimulated through the graceful moving sets of Tai Chi. It is this life force that is meditated upon during Tai Chi practice, the physical and martial arts techniques becoming secondary to the mental and energetic exercise.

3. Improve Circulation

The soothing movements of Tai Chi circulate in patterns that mimic the body's vascular and nervous systems and is closely related to other Eastern healing arts such as Shiatsu and Acupuncture. Tai Chi can improve circulation, help to clean the lymphatic system, reduce stress, ease depression, aid in sleep and anxiety disorders, lower blood pressure, improve cardiovascular fitness and help to relieve chronic pain.

4. Balancing the Body

Because Tai Chi is built upon yoga and martial arts concepts, the gentle flowing movements help to strengthen the body, elongate the muscles and work your core muscles. Tai Chi is a fantastic exercise for anyone, regardless of age or physical ability; however, it is a particularly beneficial exercise for the elderly or those recovering from injury. Tai Chi helps to increase balance and coordination and in turn can help to reduce falling injuries, increase bone density, particularly in women after menopause and improve physical functioning in general.

5. Join a Tai Chi Circle

Tai chi can be practiced in your own home with the assistance of books or video; however, most people find that joining a Tai Chi circle is most beneficial. Often Tai Chi group sessions are held outdoors among the power of nature, heightening the meditative experience. Additionally, many people claim that practicing Tai Chi within a group helps to elevate the energy and aids in learning the moves, as there are real life examples in motion.