T'AI CHI is
an ancient Chinese art that was once used primarily as a Martial Art. T'ai Chi is a slow motion form of relaxation
therapy. 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.
