You might have heard the terms Tai Chi or Tai Chi Chuan, the meanings are interchangeable.  Tai Chi is just the shorter version. Tai Chi Chuan means “Supreme Ultimate Fist”. It is derived from a series of kung fu techniques and meditative practices that can be applied as both a therapeutic activity and a medium of self-defense. Tai Chi is a form of internal martial art that is characterized by soft movements and is trained to be a relaxing and slower speed than other kinds of martial art. 

Age is not a factor and anyone from children to adults can participate in the practice of Tai Chi. Tai Chi is both an exercise and a martial art. The continual practice can lead to improvement in your physical and mental health well-being. 

As believed, Tai Chi can increase the flow of energy within the body. Tai Chi is thought to improve physical strength and promote serenity and harmony in every system of the body. The practice of Tai Chi is believed to have meditative and calming aspects that promote internal well-being. Tai Chi movements are useful in reducing anxiety and stress that forms inside the body. In addition, Tai Chi works as another layer to your personal well-being routine.

As an exercise, Tai Chi can increase the strength of your muscles and enhance your flexibility and balance. Those who practice Tai Chi are developing the internal yin and yang energy life force. These Tai Chi exercises are designed especially to build internal life forces in a harmonious and balanced manner.

Not only can Tai Chi relax the mind and the soul but also reduce the severity of certain illnesses from spreading through the body. It is a very good way of maintaining health. Tai Chi is not a disease curing technique but can be complemented as a form of therapy. The practice of Tai Chi is extremely beneficial as part of a self-care routine. It is a low impact exercise that packs powerful health benefits. 

Balance

One of the major causes of disability and death as we age is loss of coordination, which increases your risk of falling. By practicing Tai Chi, your balance can improve, reducing the risk of falling and severe injury. 

Arthritis

Tai Chi can be used to increase the range of motion in arthritic joints plus it can help improve your flexibility, strengthening your muscles as well. Tai Chi can lessen the severity of arthritis and help lessen pain in joints with regular practice.

Circulation

Tai Chi can improve the circulation within the body.  By practicing Tai Chi, it can enable the heart to pump enough blood throughout the body and thereby improve the system’s circulation.

Stress

Studies show that stress is one of the major causes of numerous diseases and disorders. There are many ways to reduce a person’s stress. One of which is engaging in Tai Chi. As a meditation function, Tai Chi can reduce the production of hormones that contribute to stress in the body.

For the best Tai Chi experience, choose a practitioner that is a master of the different aspects and knows what is best for your present situation. There are no age limits when it comes to practicing Tai Chi. Everyone is welcome to join. Although, if you have a prior health condition, it’s recommended that you consult your physician on what is best before engaging in Tai Chi.

Always remember to inform your instructor of any health problems that you have so that they can take measures to provide you with adaptive movements. When practicing Tai Chi, you should not feel any pain. If you do feel any pain, tell your instructor right away.