The ancient Chinese exercise, tai chi, is perhaps one of the best ways to stimulate your mind and body at the same time. Designed to mesh a series of slow, smooth movements with circular breathing techniques, the exercise reduces physical pain while helping to attain inner peace. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits behind this ancient practice and understand why it’s remained popular for so long.
Started back in 200 BC, tai chi’s roots were established alongside the very beginnings of the ancient Indian practice, yoga. In the 13th century, the roots started growing in different directions when a Taoist monk created the movements that are known today as the different styles of tai chi. The two main styles, Chen and Yang, are most popularly practiced today by people from around the world.
Let’s take a further look into one of the more popular styles ; the Yang style. It’s four forms include: long form, short form, push form and sword form. All incorporate smooth, rhythmic breathing techniques with flexibility, inner tranquility, posture, focus, balance, and more. The difference between the styles is the amount and type of movements.
The long form uses 108 movements throughout three stages. The short form uses only 24 movements from the long form and is not as physically exhausting, naturally making it the most popular form around the world. The sword form uses 32 movements where the user holds an imaginary sword. The “push hands” form incorporates basic tai chi techniques with martial arts. Made to be used together by two people, the “push hands” form shows users how to respond to offensive force by redirecting it rather than using force back. Naturally, this style is popular with a younger crowd.
People worldwide use tai chi as a mental and physical healer. The balance, posture and flexibility associated with the movements of tai chi help to relieve stress and achieve a greater state of well being. The Chinese say that the practice’s slow movements are what creates a steady flow of Chi. As it circulates through your body, it recognizes pain and helps to reduce tension, heart and blood vessel function, prevent disease, soothe aches and pains, heal chronic illness, and better one’s ability to sleep. If healing isn’t what you are after, use tai chi as a rewarding workout routine. Your body will build and maintain a healthy and athletic build just from regular weekly usage.
If you are looking to achieve the full benefits of tai chi and want to practice it on a regular basis, look for local groups in your area who meet daily to practice. Most groups meet during sunrise to take advantage of the fresh air and early morning energy. Depending on what physical or mental goals you are longing to achieve through using tai chi, try different types to see what suits you best. As with any exercise, even if it is primarily slow stretching, consult a doctor or a physical trainer if you have any questions at all.
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