WHAT IS TAI CHI?
Instructor Kim Ragland practicing Tai Chi
- Tai Chi also known as tai chi ch’uan is a profound healing art, encompassing exercise, meditation and self defense. It is rooted in the ancient Chinese martial arts tradition.
- The tai chi basic form combines relaxed fluid movement with a calm alert mental state. This low impact exercise creates the conditions for releasing tension and stress while also building balance, flexibility, endurance and strength.
- As a form of moving meditation, tai chi cultivates mindfulness and connects us with our deeper spiritual selves. In addition, tai chi is a powerful form of qigong. Based on Traditional Chinese Medicine, qigong exercises are a way to cultivate and balance chi or life force energy leading to optimal health.
Who Can Benefit From Tai Chi?
- Tai Chi is uniquely suited for young and old alike. No special equipment is needed. No experience is needed. Because the tai chi form is taught in a slow progressive way, there is little risk for injury. Each person can develop at their own pace. Young people will appreciate the opportunity to “unplug” from the busyness of life and experience the benefits of mindfulness. Despite the slow gentle nature of tai chi, over time everyone will develop strength and stamina.
– HEALTH BENEFITS –
- Improves balance, coordination and flexibility
- Reduces risks of falls
- Promotes correct postural alignment and efficient use of muscles
- Lowers blood pressure
- Helps to maintain or increase bone density
- Reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety
- Improves mood
- Improves sleep
- Improves cognitive functioning
- Teaches stress management skills
- Strengthens the immune system
- Has a positive impact on cardiovascular and respiratory functions
- Trains effective ways to handle conflict
Chronic Health Conditions that tai chi practice helps based on clinical research:
Arthritis, fibromyalgia, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Osteoporosis and Immune system disorders.