Observing a Tai Chi practitioner as they go through a combination of slow, relaxed and graceful movements (sometimes also called forms or postures) is one of the most beautiful things to sit and take in. Watching them, as they move in an almost hypnotic and controlled slow motion flow (which almost seems effortless) while in a meditative state is truly fascinating and somewhat mysterious. As an accomplish Martial Artist and a Certified Personal Trainer, I have always been drawn to and very intrigued by this ancient Chinese Mind-Body art of Tai Chi.
Although it is actually hard to pinpoint the exact date that Tai Chi originated, it is thought to have been developed around the 12th century A.D. in China. In the beginning, the practice of Tai Chi was originally intended as a means of self-defense, a martial art form (Tai Chi Chuan) but over time people became very aware of the many health benefits of the practice of Tai Chi.
Like other mind-body practices such as Yoga, one of the major benefits of Tai Chi practice is stress relief. Not only does Tai Chi's controlled breathing and flowing, graceful movements help quiet and clear the mind, it also relieves built up tension throughout your entire body. As your mind focuses on being in the "present moment," a state of immense relaxation takes command. The real world is quickly left behind and the wonderful feeling of calm is present; you will carry this with you long after your Tai Chi session has ended. You will be rejuvenated, refreshed and as I like to say, repaired.
Tai Chi also increases muscle strength and greatly improves balance and agility. It develops over-all coordination, reduces anxiety and depression, increases alertness during the day and improves the quality of sleep at night. The regular practice of Tai Chi can also reduce high blood pressure, improve cardiovascular fitness, endurance and relieves many types of chronic pain. Tai Chi is practiced by many for exercise as well as for health management and can be done by just about anyone no matter what their age or current fitness level. Being an extremely low impact activity, it's fairly easy on the body, but being a load or weight bearing exercise, the benefits are many, for example: increased bone density and toned muscles.
As I began my study and practice of both Tai Chi and Yoga, I was amazed of the many similarities there are between both art forms and practices. There are many different styles in both art forms, but their paths cross continually (Tai Chi originating from China and Yoga from India) and the mind and body seem to wind up in the same place. I often think that there must have been an amazing energy flow or life force in that part of the world at one time, since many of the healing and martial arts practiced today have surfaced throughout those lands.
Tai Chi, roughly translated means "balance of the opposing forces of nature or internal martial art." As we are not clear on the date that Tai Chi originated, the accounts of its deep history fluctuates greatly, as with many martial arts, a lot of the Tai Chi history was never recorded in word form, but rather it was passed on by word of mouth, from generation to generation, from master to student.
The one person whose name surfaces frequently and who is said to be one of the innovators is a 12th century, Chinese Taoist Monk named Chang-San-Feng.
History states that this Taoist Monk had observed five very different animals in nature, the Tiger, Dragon, Leopard, Snake and Crane. He then created a set of movements, forms or exercises to imitate the movements of the animals he observed and studied. The most basic form of Tai Chi incorporates 13 simple movements, while more comprehensive styles of Tai Chi are made up of dozens of forms, postures or movements.
In Tai Chi, the practitioner's relaxed body is in almost constant motion, one graceful movement flows seamlessly into the next as their minds are calm, clear of any distractions, totally focused and their breathing is deep, rhythmic and controlled. It's clearly, meditation in motion.
There are several components that make up Tai Chi, the Physical, the Mental and the Spiritual. Chinese philosophy is deeply rooted in Tai Chi, without getting to into it, one of the better known concepts that applies to Tai Chi, is Yin and Yang. These are the two principles that are believed to make up the Universe. Yin and Yang are opposites of each other and should always be kept in balance. Yin and Yang are used to describe how opposing forces are bound together, inter-connected, inter-wined. (female/male, light/dark, high/low, soft/hard). Yin is characterized as female; soft, diffused, tranquil, wet, slow, liquid and associated with feminine, birth and with night. Yang by contrast is: hard, fast, solid, dry, aggressive, hot and associated with masculinity and daytime. There is a beautiful saying, "Life is the Blended Harmony and Perfect Balance of Yin and Yang."
As I mentioned before Tai Chi is within reach for everyone. You don't have to be an advanced athlete, in perfect shape or young in age. Everyone from kids, teens, adults and seniors can reap the benefits that Tai Chi has to offer and enjoy the experience. Since Tai Chi emphasizes technique over strength, women should have no fear.
With Tai Chi there is no costly equipment to purchase, no special clothing or footwear to buy. Tai Chi can be done inside or out, by your self or in a group. Many people's first Tai Chi experience is via an instructional DVD in the comfort of their own living room. This is fine if it's a tape with high production value and if it's the only thing available to you for whatever reason, there are some great DVD's available today.
However, if you are fortunate to have the means, there is really no replacing taking a "face to face" class with a qualified teacher. Especially in the beginning, an instructor can easily guide you through the movements and make any necessary and important adjustments needed, this way you are learning the correct movements and breathing, rather then developing bad habits, which are sometimes hard to break later down the road. Some people start out with the DVD and once hooked move quickly to a class.
Some people enjoy the social aspect of a class-environment, while others prefer to practice alone in their own private setting. Finding a qualified teacher/instructor is easier than ever these days with the use of the Internet, whether you choose private instruction in your home or choose to attend a group class.
Although the practice of Tai Chi is considered very safe, easy on the body and is proven to promote good health, consider talking to your health care provider before starting a program. This is particularly important if you have problems with your joints, spine, lungs or heart.
So, now that you have a basic understanding in regards to the wonders of Tai Chi, go out there and experience it first hand. I'm sure it will take you no time to enjoy the peace and serenity through Tai Chi's gentle, graceful movements while you connect the body and mind.
Markus B. is the Co-Founder of The Fitness Underground-Los Angeles. He has drawn off his years of experience as a Certified Personal Trainer, A Professional Athlete and an accomplished Martial Artist to help create with his partner Texas (an elite Yoga Instructor & Certified Personal Trainer) a "New and Innovative" approach to Health, Fitness and Well Being that not only Enhances the Body but also Enriches the Mind. With an increasing following in the Los Angeles area his powerful message of Good Health, Clean Living and the importance of Exercise, Markus is changing people's lives. Helping people achieve and experience "enlightenment" of good health and a higher level of fitness.
Fitness and Well-Being is his passion, his life's work and his personal goal of educating people about this "new way" of living, is one that he takes very seriously. His belief is that health, fitness and well-being is the greatest gift we are given in life. It's a supreme gift that we should always be mindful of, be grateful for and never take for granted. Markus is often heard saying that having the opportunity to help people make important changes in their lives, and in some cases "life saving" changes is an awesome feeling as well as extremely rewarding. Come join Markus and experience the difference first hand. Start enjoying and living a healthier, happier and more active life. Life is too short not to listen to his message!
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