Unlike karate, Tai Chi is well known for its slow and rhythmic movements. This ancient Chinese martial art has loads of health benefits.
Do you want to stay healthy but do not want to go to the gym? Have you thought of trying Tai Chi. Tai Chi is a form of exercise derived from the martial arts. It consists of slow, rhythmic movements. Earlier Tai Chi was used as a fighting form for self defense such as Karate and Judo, later it evolved as a gentle form of exercise which can be practiced by people of all ages. No matter if you are a student, a housewife, a working person, a parent or a grandparent in your family; you can learn and practice this trendy form of exercise easily.
Components of Tai Chi
Tai Chi is more or less similar to other mind-body therapies. It is a well researched fact that connection between mind and body helps to reduce stress, fights diseases and maintains physical health. Tai Chi is the combination of three factors - movement, meditation and deep breathing.
Movement
Tai Chi involves the slow movements of all the major muscle groups and joints. Tai Chi is the perfect form of exercise one can introduce in the daily routine to improvise resistance power, muscle power and ability to be always active.
Meditation
Meditation is the part of the Tai Chi. Meditation calms down mind and enhances the ability to think positive. It boosts up the concentration power.
Deep breathing
Once engaged in the daily routine, we often do not realise that we are not breathing properly. Shallow breathing is not appropriate as it may lead to health concerns due to lack of adequate oxygen. Deep breathing is of utmost importance as it directly affects blood circulation and amount of oxygen in the body.
Tai Chi movements
Tai Chi is the set of slow and rhythmic movements known as form. The form is like a special dance which lasts for about eight minutes. In Tai Chi arms move in circular and relaxed motion. In these movements you move your body gently from one direction to the other. As Tai Chi is originated from martial arts, it has some martial applications. The practical exercises of Tai Chi are often linked with Taoism. Suppleness and tenderness, the features related to Tai Chi are derived from the Taoism. Tai Chi is also referred as Tai Chi chuan. Tai Chi comprises more than 100 movements and postures. Suitable movements can be picked up from wide range of movements and can be practiced on regular basis.
Safety while learning Tai Chi
Though Tai Chi can be practiced by anyone, it is advisable to consult a family doctor before getting started with it. Those who have joint, spine or heart ailments should seek the advice of expert without fail. It is possible that little muscle pain or sprains can be experienced in the beginning sessions but with regular practice it is easy to get used to Tai Chi forms. There are chances of falling due to poor balancing while practicing the art. Stop practicing for a while if you have injured yourself while learning the movements.
Advantages of Tai Chi
- It reduces the level of stress, depression, anxiety
- It increases concentration
- It cures sleep related disorders
- It increases the stamina and resistance power
- It increases the energy level
- It improves balance and flexibility
- It controls mood swings
- It improves breathing pattern
Learning Tai Chi
Special equipments or clothes are not required for learning Tai Chi but it is best to practice the art under the supervision of qualified Tai Chi instructor. An instructor guides with the positions and breathing patterns. He corrects the mistakes. Slowly it is easy to gain confidence while practicing different Tai Chi styles. Some may find it appropriate to practice Tai Chi at the same place and time, but it is not the rule. Tai Chi can be practiced indoors or outdoors as per convenience.
Some cities provide classes without any cost at local gyms. But if you feel shy or if you are not comfortable going outside then you can always browse through online videos, demonstrations and written instructions. You can have a companion to practice the movements or else you can practice them alone.
This ancient art form from the rich culture of china will help you tone up your body and let you enjoy tranquility in your life. Find the new path towards wellness with the help of Tai Chi. Introduce the new fitness mantra in your life by adopting Tai Chi practice.
Do you practice Tai Chi? What do you do for physical and mental fitness? Would you like to learn Tai Chi? To share your tips, views, and experiences, click here.
