Tai Chi Chuan: Breathe Deeply, Move Gently, Feel Great

What Is Tai Chi?
Ever see a group of Chinese people on TV practicing a set of slow, beautiful movements in the park or city square? That was probably tai chi. Ever notice that the group generally includes men, women, children and centenarians? THAT’S what makes tai chi special. Tai chi chuan is an ancient martial art that a wide variety of people practice primarily for health. It is normally practiced slowly and gently in conjunction with slow, deep breathing – ideal for building strength and health at a gradual pace. It can also be practiced by individuals with mobility issues, as the movements of tai chi are easily adapted to practice in a seated position. The proper body mechanics emphasized in tai chi are also gentle to your joints.

What’s In It for Me?
Tai chi can be a lot of fun and just plain feels good, a combination that keeps you feeling young. And it can offer many important health benefits of concern to seniors and younger people alike, including:

• reduction in stress level;
• core strength and spine stability;
• weight-bearing exercise, good for bone density;
• improved mobility/flexibility;
• hip- and leg-muscle strength;
• improved blood and lymph circulation;
• proper breathing;
• balance and coordination;
• better daily energy and mental focus;
• improved immune system functioning; and
• self-defense (can definitely preserve your health).

While most people practice tai chi primarily for health, it is also a very effective martial art and offers good self-defense skills (if your instructor is trained in these skills). When practiced at a faster pace, tai chi is great for aerobic fitness too.
Tai chi is by its nature relaxing and calming, and most of us could use that sort of mini-vacation in our week. Well suited to peaceful warriors of all ages, tai chi is a great way to get strong and healthy, inside and out.

Interesting Links:
http://www.webmd.com/balance/health-benefits-tai-chi-qigong
http://www.texasholisticartscenter.com/martial_arts.htm
http://www.therapeutictaichi.com/vereandtaich.html
Juli Hartmann
Master Instructor and Owner
Texas Holistic Arts Center / Sacred Source
For more information about martial arts classes, tai chi classes, kickboxing classes, kung fu classes, massage, Reiki and holistic healing in Leander, Texas, visit http://www.texasholistics.com, or feel free to call us at 512-778-5778
Texas Holistic Arts Center offers kung fu, tai chi chuan, kickboxing, yoga, massage, Reiki and special workshops, including weaponry and Reiki instruction. www.texasholistics.com
Copyright © Juli Hartmann 2009