Introduction to Tai Chi

By Michael Castleman
Published on February 13, 2009
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Depression and diabetes are just a couple of the ailments that a tai chi practice can help you fight.

<p class=”Article” align=”left”>Practitioners say that tai chi — a 600-year-old dancelike exercise derived from the martial arts — clears the mind, relaxes the body, and contributes to health and longevity. Tai chi originally came to the United States with the arrival of Chinese immigrants following the Civil War. And it’s become increasingly popular — both as a gentle form of meditative exercise, and as a way to cope with many illnesses.</p>
<h3 class=”Article” align=”left”>What is Tai Chi?</h3>
<p class=”Article” align=”left”>Translated into English, tai chi variously means: “supreme boxing,” “the root of all motion,” and “optimal fist fighting.” It is considered a martial art, but unlike the more combative styles, tai chi is based on fluidity and circular movements. Tai chi masters say that this gentle dance develops the flexibility of child, the strength of a lumberjack and, eventually, the wisdom of a sage.</p>
<p class=”Article” align=”left”>Tai chi embodies the Chinese idea that life is based on life energy, or <i>chi</i>. Many tai chi forms incorporate movement of the arms as though one is gently holding a big beach ball of <i>chi</i>. Based on the Chinese worldview, tai chi divides <i>chi</i> into two equal, opposite and complementary parts, <i>yin</i> and <i>yang</i>.  Tai chi incorporates the <i>yin-yang</i> unity of opposites in many ways, for example, during tai chi routines, the weight shifts repeatedly from one leg to the other and the arms move in opposite, yet complementary directions. Deep meditative breathing is also central to tai chi.</p>
<p class=”Article” align=”left”>People new to tai chi often remark that masters of this art seem oddly ageless. They look like they might be anywhere from 30 years old to 80. It’s hard to tell. The Chinese say that tai chi is a major boon to health and longevity, which is why so many elderly people practice it. It’s also very gentle, so the elderly <i>can</i> practice it. </p>
<h3 class=”Article” align=”left”>Health Benefits of a Tai Chi Practice</h3>

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