Excitingspas

Tai Chi is one of the ‘soft’ martial arts developed by the ancient Chinese. It is practised increasingly in the West as a means of stress management and exercise. Tai Chi is a series of slow, controlled movements or postures, usually practised outdoors to take advantage of the surrounding energy of nature. Central to Tai Chi is the belief in the life essence, or Qi (pronounced ‘chee’), that flows through invisible channels or meridians in the body. When the flow of Qi is disrupted, illness is the result. The regular practice of Tai Chi is said to strengthen and improve Qi. According to scientific studies, Tai Chi is an effective healing tool for a range of disorders, particularly chronic (for example, arthritis and heart disease) and stress related conditions.

Tai Chi can help to improve a range of disorders, including:

Physical Benefits

The Tai Chi movements can be loosely described as shadow boxing or ‘shadow kung fu’ in slow motion. Regular practice can increase flexibility and strength, and improve cardiovascular fitness. The emphasis on correct posture means that Tai Chi can instil a greater awareness of the body and how it moves through space. Tai Chi is also prized as a form of meditation. By focusing exclusively on performing the body movements with grace and poise, the mind achieves a calm, empty clarity.