• What is Tai Chi?        
• Why exercise Tai Chi ?        
• "CHI" (energy) Circulation
• Moving Meditation - Key to mental health

WHAT IS TAI CHI?

Literally translated, it means "great ultimate" art form. Tai Chi is a recreational fitness system of flowing movements designed to exercise and develop the body and mind in unison. The movements are performed in a slow and dream-like pace, with deep concentration and diaphragmatic breathing to transport one into a state of tranquil relaxation.

Although relatively unknown to the outside world until recently, due to the traditional Chinese protective attitude towards cultural arts, Tai Chi has been practised by the Chinese for more than 700 years. It is regarded as the highest health exercise system ever developed , and highly regarded as the psychological and physio-therapeutical part of Chinese medicine.

---

"CHI" ( ENERGY) CIRCULATION :

The single most important and profound concept in Chinese health system is the circulation of "Chi" . Simply translated it means life-energy and which circulates all over the body in all living people. "Chi " not only maintains life and health, it governs almost all activity in the body including :

• It activates the life force and the growth, metabolism, regeneration and repair of body.         
• It has a warming effect, regulating body temperature and keeping the organs in an active capacity.
• It guards against invasion of the body by diseases.      
• It enhances and regulates the circulation of blood, body fluids, saliva etc

Tai Chi is recommended by Chinese medical expert to regulate and improve the flow of "Chi" precisely for the same reasons that acupuncture therapies are used. The smooth flow of this energy within our  bodies will results in good health; but in contrast we become ill when the flow is hindered.

The flowing movements of Tai Chi can greatly improve this energy circulation.

---

MOVING MEDITATION  - KEY TO  MENTAL HEALTH :

In its normal state the mind is a constant source of mental  activity, a never-ending  network of thought associations. In the endless sea of thoughts the mind gets no rest. Even in sleep, unfinished business during the day is played out on dream fantasies. All these , coupled with the hectic pace of life and the unceasing demands at our work place results in great mental stress.

It has been said that more that 50% of  illnesses treated by modern doctors can be attributed to psychosomatic disorders or directly or indirectly to mental stress. Mental stress can also cause physical illnesses such as cardiovascular problems and high blood pressure.

Tai Chi's flowing movements and energy meditations have the therapeutic effect of slowing down the pace and refreshes the mind and the body. When performing Tai Chi the mind visualises each and every movement while the body gives physical expression  to that mental image. For example, in the movement called 'Grasping the bird's tail', the mind visualises the open left palm supporting a delicate little bird, while the right palm strokes its head, runs down its back and through to its tail. As the birds flies away the body rotates to follow its flight.

The active participation of the mind with the body movements creates a sense of softness and sensitivity resulting in a very pleasant flowing meditation. This in essence exercise the central nervous system and improves mental relaxation.