T'AI CHI-- is an ancient Chinese art that was once
used primarily as a Martial Art. Translated it means 'Supreme Ultimate Fist'. For many T'ai Chi is
a slow motion form of exercise and relaxation therapy. According to legend it is said to originated by a man named Chang
San-Feng. T'ai Chi was revealed to him during a noontime meditation. He saw a crane trying to attack a snake.
The snake with its circles and spirals was able to conquer the crane. Therefore, all T'ai Chi moves are done with
circularity and roundness. In the 2008 opening ceremony of the Olympics there was 2008 T'ai Chi 'players'.
Today modern science and research has discovered its multitude of health giving benefits. Primarily Fall Prevention & stress reduction. Research has proven that T'ai Chi reduces falls in older adults by 47.5% due to balance improvement; Steven L. Wolf PhD
and Tingsen Xu PhD T'ai Chi Grandmaster conducted this research. T'ai Chi also improves lower
body strength due to the slow postural changes in a very slight bent knee position. With the knees in an unlocked position
it forces the muscles of the lower body to work, taking strain off the lower back and increasing calorie expenditure.
Although it is important never to bend the knees beyond the toes as that would put too much strain on the knees. Therefore,
when I teach T'ai Chi I am very particular about knees and how far they are bent and in which direction they are bent.
Stress and tension is where many illnesses and diseases of the body and mind originate. The gentle movements of
T'ai Chi directs the mind into the alpha state. In this state the body produces T-cells that boost the immune system
helping to fight infection and rid the body of diseases. The slow deliberate movements
known as the form, relax the Body, Mind and Spirit.
The slow deliberate movements
of T'ai Chi gives the body time to adapt and make postural changes needed for improved Balance. As the body moves through the slow graceful movements, the brain becomes aware of the muscles
and joints of the body in a new and enlightening way. With this new focus the mind and body integrate into one.
T'ai Chi Ch'uan was once used as a very effective martial art and performed correctly, it still is.
Each properly executed movement has a self-defense application, which is rooted in proper body mechanics. Although most
people do not learn T'ai Chi for its self-defense properties, understanding the roots just adds beauty to the flower.
Many of the graceful T'ai Chi movements have come from movements found in nature, especially those of animal
behavior where many of the postures' names have originated. Names such as, Golden Rooster Stands on one Leg,
Repulse Monkey, Snake Creeps Down, White Crane Spreads its Wings, and Stroke the Peacock's Tail. Other moves of
nature include, Step up to Seven Stars, Cloud Hands, and Needle at Sea Bottom. To try to explain what T'ai Chi is
or what you will experience is to do T'ai Chi a disservice. Only by doing will you experience the euphoric awakening
of the body, mnd and spirit right down to your soul.
BENEFITS OF T'AI
CHI INCLUDE, but are not limited to:
-Fall Prevention
-Stress Reduction
-Well Being
-Improved Posture
-Improved Balance
-Improved Coordination
-Stronger Immune
System
-Better Breathing Technique
-Increased Flexibility
-Tones Muscles
-Burns Calories
-Peace of Mind
-Etc.
