Tai Chi : Tai Chi Exercises

Tai Chi, or Tai Chi Ch'?an, is an ancient form of martial art, which is being increasingly used as an exercise due to its various health benefits. The word Tai Chi Ch'?an in Mandarin means "boundless fist," or "supreme ultimate boxing." Tai Chi basically stresses health, meditation and a soft form of martial arts. As a result, tai chi works to improve the muscular, skeletal and circulatory system. This is done by a number of slow motion exercises that instill awareness about the balance of, and within the body.

Qigong, pronounced chee-kung, literally means "breathing exercise." The more popular exercise of Tai Chi is a form of Qigong. Modern medical research is now revealing that Tai Chi & Qigong are powerful health sciences, as well as effective aerobic exercises.

There are various beginner and advanced courses offered, and a beginner course is just fine for those who wish to attain a normal level of fitness. Later, exercise videos can be bought for as less as $10 and one can continue practicing at home. The advanced courses deal in handling weapons such as a cane, spear and sword.

The principle of Yin and Yang is incorporated in the tai chi martial arts style, to balance the strong force by countering it with a mild one. There are a number of styles that have gained popularity, but they have all evolved from one basic form that developed in the 16th century. The popular styles are Yang, Wu, Ch'en, and Sun. Tai Chi is now taught in as many as 25 countries and is officially recognized by the Chinese Sports Committee.

A study in the Archives of Internal Medicine (3-8-04) examined 47 previous studies on the health effects of Tai Chi, and found that Tai Chi showed positive effects on Respiratory and cardiovascular functioning; Blood pressure; Balance; Arthritis, flexibility and strength; Depression or mood; Immunity

By: Ray Lam..

Learn about chen tai chi and get a free Taichi Techniques ebook by visiting tai-chi-guru.info, a popular website that provides free Tai Chi For Health advice and resources.

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