The summer holidays are a great time to start a new form of exercise such as Tai Chi - a form of moving meditation that originated as a martial art.
Today Tai Chi is a hit worldwide thanks to its many therapeutic benefits such as improved strength, flexibility and state of mind. And the good news is that practically anyone can do it, anywhere, anytime.
The aim of Tai Chi is to create streams of energy to flow through the body. In the philosophy of Tai Chi it is said Chi (life energy) follows the mind, each posture and movement creates a different energy flow that has a beneficial affect on overall well-being. Tai Chi stimulates circulation, aligns the skeleton and joints correctly, stimulates the organs of the body and helps digestion. It increases muscle tone, strength, improves balance and co ordination and also improves breathing. As well as raising energy levels it also affects the mind and the spirit. Tai Chi focuses thought, so that mind and body energy work together as one.
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There are two ways of trying to explain the benefits of Tai Chi. The traditional Chinese explanation looks at the flow of energy and the connection between the body and the mind. A western perspective might focus on the purely mechanical.
The emphasis on correct body posture and spinal alignment while practicing Tai Chi releases tension and pressure caused by slumping. Improved posture improves the digestive system and removes stress from the back.
Moving weight from leg to leg is common to many Tai Chi exercises, as is extending and lifting the arms, legs and hands. All these moves have one thing in common -they vary the load on joint surfaces, increasing the flow of natural lubricant and nutrients into joints, so that they move more freely.
The flowing movements of a typical Tai Chi routine disguise the incredibly high number of joint rotations that are being used. The neck will move from side to side, palms will turn over, elbows and shoulders will rotate, all increasing flexibility and the joints’ range of motion.
At the same time the muscles, ligaments and tendons that protect and support the joints are being strengthened which keeps them mobile and healthy. Joints are less likely to become stiff and there may be less pain from things like lumbago, arthritis and sciatica.
And then there are the psychological benefits. As you direct your mind to focus on the moves you’ll find that you have screened out distractions and your head is at peace.
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Tai Chi is known to help people regain muscle control after illness and to accelerate recovery from operations. Find out more by Googling Tai Chi health benefits.
To find your local Tai Chi group visit http://www.taichiaustralia.com/ or look in your local paper or gym.
Or buy a DVD for home. You'll be surprised at how soon you start to feel a difference in both body and mind.
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