Originally a form of martial arts focused on self defense, tai chi is now used as an exercise by people of all ages to keep healthy and active. Tai chi is based on Chinese philosophy that ties together mind and body and is used to reduce stress and increase overall health.
History
Tai chi originated in ancient China with a Shaolin monk named Chang Sang Feng who developed the martial art in the 13th century. For generations, it was a secret art, only taught to members of a single family. In the 1800s, it spread to others when one teacher, Chen Chang-Hsin, taught it to an outsider. Over time, the art was adapted and changed by various groups and developed into a few different styles, including Yang, Wu, Hao and Sun styles.
Exercises
Tai chi exercises are performed slowly, with a gentle, flowing motion. The practitioner moves through a specific series of poses, with each pose flowing into the next. There are more than 100 different poses and these can be combined in many ways and given slight variations. While going through a set of poses, the tai chi practitioner also pays attention to his breathing, coordinating breaths with movement. The technique of each movement is extremely important in tai chi.
Practitioners
Tai chi is suitable for men and women of all ages. Many elderly people practice tai chi daily as a way to keep stress levels down while also helping their bodies stay active with this gentle exercise. People with disabilities may also be able to do tai chi, because it does not put any undue stress on any bodily systems.
Getting Started
There is no special equipment involved, nor even any specific place you need to go to do tai chi, so it can be an inexpensive activity. It can be done as a solo activity, practiced alone at home, or you can join a group of tai chi practitioners and make it more social.
Benefits
There are numerous health benefits ascribed to tai chi. Reducing stress and anxiety is one reason people practice this martial art. Some practitioners feel that tai chi improves balance, flexibility, sleep quality, agility, endurance and energy levels. It may also be involved in lowering blood pressure, relieving pain and improving heart health.
Safety
As a low impact activity, tai chi is generally considered a safe activity for all ages. People with joint, heart or spine problems should consult a doctor before beginning tai chi. Learning the tai chi positions from a trained instructor can help you avoid any potential soreness or pain caused by doing moves incorrectly.
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