Exercise isn't simply about getting in shape. Keeping fit has
positive mental health benefits too. And one of the most effective
methods of getting our mind and body in harmony and working efficiently
is the ancient Chinese art of T'ai Chi...
Dating back at least 700 years, T'ai Chi is a martial art which
was devised from the movements of animals and birds and which is
performed slowly and gracefully, using smooth and even movements.
It has been described as a combination of moving yoga and
meditation, and can be practised by all age groups, and fitness levels.
In fact many of the Tai Chi movements can even be adapted to wheelchair
users. Although, to be on the safe side, you should check with your
doctor if you are in any doubt before starting any programme of
physical exercise.
Many gyms, local leisure centres and alternative therapy clinics
now hold classes, just look in your local Yellow Pages for details of
classes near you. No special clothing is required, any clothing you can
move freely in is suitable, and T'ai Chi classes are generally made up
of a mix of men and women as it is thought to be beneficial to have a
mix of Yin (female) and Yang (male) energy within a class.
The Chinese believe there exists something called Chi, a vital
force that animates the body. One of the main goals of T'ai Chi is to
increase the Chi in your body, enhancing health and vitality. Chi is
said to move through your body in patterns that are closely related to
the nervous and blood system, and so is closely connected to the
Chinese practice of acupuncture and other oriental healing arts.
Another aim of T'ai Chi is to promote a calm and tranquil mind
that allows you to focus only on the execution of the moves. And these
moves will not only tone your body, they will also help improve your
balance and alignment, making you better at standing, walking and
running, by correcting poor posture or movement patterns which can
cause tension and even injury.
As well as the physical benefits, the meditative nature of the
exercises is calming and relaxing, which is invaluable in the high
stress hectic world which many of us inhabit.
Although many of the exercises and movements are solitary and
non-contact, there are two-person exercises called 'push-hands' which
foster the idea of being sensitive to and responsive of another
person's 'chi' or vital energy. It is also an opportunity to use some
of the martial aspects of Tai Chi in a kind of slow-tempo combat.
So, what are you waiting for? Take the oriental route to and fit and healthy body and mind.
