Tai Chi Instruction
Learn TAI CHI !!
Instructor - Mr. James Mclin
Tai Chi, or Taiji Quan as it is sometimes called, is a slow and relaxing form of exercise commonly practiced for stress relief, better health, and self defense. In modern times, Tai Chi has come to be thought of as an exercise for senior citizens. However, this modern perception can be misleading. It is true that Tai Chi is an effective way for seniors to better their health and personal well being. Unfortunately, the many benefits of the regular practice of Tai Chi for younger people are often overlooked. Younger people, especially college students, are exposed to a great deal of stress on a day to day basis. This stress, caused by tests, mid-term papers, and balancing a job with a family life while in school, can be more overwhelming than the stress brought on by the lifestyle of retired seniors. Tai Chi through its slow and meditative movements can provide stress relief for its practitioners. Many people in China and all around the world practice Tai Chi for stress relief and to better their health.
Tai Chi offers many health benefits. The practice of Tai Chi provides a relaxing type of workout that can benefit the cardiovascular system as well as aid in weight loss. Tai Chi also has been known to assist in fortifying the immune system through a regular practice. It strengthens and tones the body as a whole.
Tai Chi performed by a young and vibrant person should look different than Tai Chi performed by an older person. The stances (way of standing in postures) should be much lower in Tai Chi performed by a younger person. Additionally, the kicking techniques should be higher and the movements in the postures should be more elongated. Through these techniques Tai Chi will tone and strengthen even the most seasoned athlete, while still providing stress relief and relaxation through its deep breathing techniques and slow movements.
The practice of Tai Chi does not require any special equipment or clothing. This makes it an economical and practical form of exercise. Also, since the movements are done slowly with relaxation in mind, it is an ideal form of exercise for people with medical conditions or people recovering from injuries. People all around the world have enjoyed healthier and more peaceful lives through the practice of this ancient Chinese art.
With all the health benefits Tai Chi has to offer it is easy to overlook the fact that Tai Chi was originally practiced primarily as a martial art of self-defense system. Tai Chi Chuan means “Supreme Ultimate Fist.” It was so named because of its effectiveness in self-defense. As the world becomes increasingly more dangerous, the study of self-defense is important for young and old alike. Because of its slow and graceful movements many do not think of Tai Chi as a martial art. Tai Chi’s effectiveness in self-defense stems from its theory of relaxed and soft movement. Its techniques rely on relaxation and proper execution instead of brute force. This makes it an ideal method of self-defense for women or people of smaller physical stature.
The practice of Tai Chi has much to offer people from all walks of life. From college students to middle-aged nine to fivers to senior citizens, better health and stress relief are just a few slow movements away.