Tai chi is a form of martial arts that consists of movements that are slow and very controlled. Tai chi will improve your strength and bring balance to you with every practice. The Chinese philosophy in tai chi is combining body and mind together for an overall healthy lifestyle.
History
Tai chi originated centuries ago in China. A 13th-century monk named Chang Sang Feng is credited with developing it. Tai chi has grown in popularity and spread worldwide, taking on different forms in the process.
Health Benefits
Even though tai chi has been around for centuries, a number of studies have been conducted to show evidence of its health benefits. It has shown to improve flexibility and balance in all age groups. Tai chi relieves chronic pain, and helps with stress management. It has been shown to improve sleep disorders and reduce depression and anxiety. Most people experience an increase of energy throughout the body.
Research Information
At the Tufts University School of Medicine, researchers have found that patients 65 and older with knee osteoarthritis have experienced improvement with regular tai chi exercising. Being that the elderly population is at the highest risk of developing knee osteoarthritis (which results in pain and physical limitations), doing regular tai chi is shown to be beneficial.
Movements and Breathing
To experience the full benefits from each tai chi practice, it's important to blend the breathing exercises and the movements together. Each plays its part during each practice time. This is where most may find it a good idea to take a class with a qualified tai chi instructor, because it would be helpful in getting the breathing and movements together.
Where and How Much to Practice
When getting started with tai chi, reading books and renting DVDs is a good place to begin. However, there are many benefits to taking a class with a qualified tai chi instructor. The instructor can help with your form, which in turn will lower the risk of injury. To see the most benefits from tai chi, consider regularly scheduled practices.
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