T'ai Chi

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The sequence of movements which make up the Tai Chi ‘Form’ thoroughly exercise all parts of the body, massaging the internal organs and building suppleness and fitness gradually, without unnecessary strain and effort. This makes it ideal for men and women of all ages.

Studies on the effects of Tai Chi support what has been intuitively known by its advocates, that T’ai Chi

Tones and Vitalises The Whole Body:

Strengthens Joints

Improves Posture

Assists In The Treatment Of Many Diseases

Strengthens Resistance To Disease

Calms the mind reducing stress

The Chinese people have been practising the art of T'ai Chi Ch'uan for centuries. In fact it is practised to such an extent that, in the past, it has drawn the bewildered attention of tourists. All over China many Chinese rise early to practise their T'ai Chi movements in the park, on the rooftops, in car parks and on balconies, in fact anywhere they can find a bit of space. Some people practise in groups and some prefer to practise alone. Originally with its foundations in the martial arts it is most often now taught as a health art.

Many people in the West are under the impression that T'ai Chi is only for the elderly. This is incorrect, ideally T'ai Chi should be taught from an early age. For the last thirty three years I have been practising the Taoist Arts which originated in China. I have found T'ai Chi Ch'uan as a health art particularly helpful. T'ai Chi is excellent for reducing mental stress, and also for reducing tension in the muscles of the body.

The 'T'ai Chi Form' is a sequence of movements which are performed in a standing position. The movements are slow and graceful, they are also a splendid therapeutic exercise. After having mastered a few movements of the T'ai Chi form, as you practise, the muscles of the body will start to relax. The mind, because it is required to focus on the physical movements, stops racing from one thought to another. The mind now starts to become calm. With a little regular practice you will develop a feeling of serenity. This is why T'ai Chi is often described as 'Meditation with Movement'.

The practice of T'ai Chi will put you in touch with your physical body. You will become aware of the muscle changes that take place when you step forwards, backwards, sideways, lift a leg into the air in a kicking action, bend at the waist, etc. It will teach you to be aware of your own unnecessary excessive use of energy. You will learn how to move your body more naturally, more efficiently using up less energy as you do so. This will give you a greater reserve of energy to draw on in times of stress. Your temperament will improve and you will become a happier person.

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