Tai Chi
Tai Chi has been practiced in China for thousands of years. However, there are many different forms and systems and it is important that you choose the right one to suite you. For example, is it the martial arts aspect that interests you? The health and fitness benefits? Or both?
Tutor Robert Ripley
Tai Chi can be taught as a martial art, and yet, just by watching it you might not recognise this. Each movement will have a martial application, but as it is threaded together into what is called a 'form' the graceful movements have often been likened to a 'slow dance'. Tai Chi is often practiced these days for different reasons than it was perhaps originally intended and can be enjoyed purely for its health benefits and its which are numerous:
- Tai Chi will help free the body from tension, promoting circulation and overall relaxation. It activates muscles, sinews and joints in the body. It develops physical power without stress.
- It maintains youth and aliveness and slows down the ageing process through rejuvenation.
- Tai Chi calms and collects. It clears and sharpens the mind to help us in focusing and centering ourselves.
- When the body and mind move harmoniously together, the human spirit soars!
Some Background
Since the basic component in the universe is energy and, as beings made of energy, our bodies are designed to have this energy always flowing smoothly and in balance. The energy flows through the energy channels, or meridians in the body. Blockages can occur in this energy flow, most commonly brought about by stress or emotional issues and sickness can manifest. Tai Chi and Qi Gong are designed to help free up any energy blockages, thereby addressing the route causes not just the symptoms. The aim is to help you live the most joyful and rewarding life possible.