Tai chi is a Chinese martial art based on a self-paced set of exercises where your move your body in a gentle and balanced way to achieve postures that come together with rhythmic patterns. With tai chi, your body is mostly in motion. There are different styles of tai chi, such as wu hao, sun and yang. To perform tai chi exercises, you must choose a form and learn the different sets of movements and positions. A simple form of tai chi to start with is part of the yang style and is called Beijing 24.
Step 1
Memorize the different sets of postures that comprise the form of tai chi you wish to practice. For example, in Beijing 24, you need to know more than 30 postures, including Shouhui Pípa (Playing the Lute), You Lan Quewei (Right Grasp Sparrow's Tail) and Haidi Zhen (Needle at Sea Bottom). Practicing with an experienced tai chi instructor will prove to be valuable for you to obtain proper form in each of these postures.
Step 2
Choose a calm place to practice tai chi exercises. Doing tai chi out in nature is fun and can help you focus on your practice, as many movements in tai chi relate to animals and forces of nature.
Step 3
Take a few deep breaths before starting to help you relax into your tai chi practice. Tai chi can be considered a form of moving meditation, and you should be as relaxed as possible to gain full benefits from the exercises. If you are not fully relaxed when you start, you will more than likely be fully relaxed by the time you finish the sequence.
Step 4
Move gracefully as you flow through the postures, trying to imagine you are one with them and nature. With tai chi, you are getting in touch with natural rhythms in your body.
Tips and Warnings
- Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to stretch and move with ease from posture to posture. Invite a friend to practice with you.
- Some postures stretch the legs, but cease all forms of movement if any posture gives you sharp, shooting pain. Consult your doctor. Tai chi is a gentle practice, and you should not experience pain.
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