Tai chi is an ancient discipline of slow, fluidlike movements. This excellent art is instrumental in relaxing the full body and mind with a variety of health benefits.
China is known for its history and founding of numerous martial arts and longevity. Historical reports vary in the exact timeline date tai chi was developed, however historians tend to agree that the art of tai chi dates as far back as 5000 B.C.
Due to the subtle movement techniques of the art, tai chi can benefit health seekers and provide an excellent source of health improvement for seniors.
Benefit of Ease
Senior citizens become less active as maturity sets in. Muscles and tendons become less supple with lack of movement, and supporting biological organ function begins to slow down from decreased oxygen input as well as slower circulation.
Tai chi requires little intensity of movement, creating more fluid contractions in the muscles and making it optimal for individuals of mature age. The flowing motion techniques used in tai chi make it easier for seniors to maintain balanced health.
Biological Benefits
It takes time to master the art of tai chi, yet through ongoing practice the biological benefits are well worth the work. According to longtime martial art instructor Sifu Galiano, senior citizens may improve circulation, joint mobility, regulate blood pressure and increase oxygenation in the body through continued practice.
Galiano also says, "Practice must be increased over time to experience substantial results. One cannot expect remarkable change from practicing only 10 minutes once per week; rather, a person should make tai chi part of a daily practice regime over time for optimal benefit."
Mental Benefits
Galiano states the mental benefits increased from repetitive daily practice of tai chi include better focus and concentration, heightened self-awareness from listening to the body through breathing and movement, and counteracting the effects of short-term memory loss through repetition practice.
Energy
Chi is a term used in Chinese culture as meaning "life force," and tai means "ultimate." The continued practice of tai chi cultivates the life force within and is often prescribed by Western medicine professionals in modern-day society to build up depleted life force for degenerative illnesses.
Senior citizens who experience degenerative conditions can benefit greatly by incorporating tai chi into a daily exercise regime to invigorate and build the energy levels in the body, ultimately boosting the immune system and promoting clear thought processes and a healthier body.
Suggestions
Although some benefit can be experienced with minimal tai chi practice, Galiano expresses the importance of achieving the highest benefit by building up tai chi practice past 10 minutes daily.
Individuals in younger age brackets benefit from higher durations of practice time.
References
- Sifu Galiano, Martial Arts Instructor, Colorado
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