T'ai Chi Benefits

Casey Willson and the
T'ai Chi posture "Beginning."

Health is not a static condition; it is a dynamic harmony of diverse elements in a world of constant change. The words T'ai Chi, which translate to Supreme Ultimate, represent the condition in which Yin and Yang are in dynamic balance. As a daily exercise, T'ai Chi uses slow, smooth and gentle turns and steps combined with mental concentration on the very important natural principles to promote a harmony of energy within all the systems of the mind and body. For example, the shapes and flow of the movements combined with relaxation help improve respiration. As the limbs move gently up and down and in and out, the breathing gradually deepens, more of the capacity of the lungs is utilized and vitality is enhanced.

Western Science has studied T'ai Chi Ch'uan and verified the many benefits that have long been known in the East. For example, T'ai Chi has been shown to be very helpful with arthritis, hypertension, balance difficulties, cardio rehabilitation and lower back pain. Stress management is an important part of overall health and T'ai Chi teaches specific and effective techniques to alleviate stress.

If exercise was a drug, it would be the most prescribed drug ever known because almost any ailment is improved by exercise. Most exercise requires a certain degree of good health to begin. Due to the gentle and self-paced aspects of T'ai Chi, however, almost anyone can participate. Therefore, T'ai Chi is currently the world's most widely practiced health exercise system.

"The mind directs the ch'i (energy), which sinks deeply and permeates the bones. The ch'i circulates freely, mobilizing the body so that it heeds the direction of the mind."
The T'ai Chi Ch'uan Classics

Not physically demanding at the beginning level, the graceful, moderate movements of T'ai Chi do not require good health to begin. This is a soft, gradual approach, emphasizing a slow, but sure, return to harmony. Students determine their own individual pace of learning and level of effort without straining or feeling compelled to match others. There are no tests, no grades or ranks, no belts or bumper stickers. Students learn to listen to their own energy and the personal signals that indicate individual limits. This noncompetitive gentleness makes T'ai Chi excellent for all ages, including seniors.

Requiring no special equipment or clothing, this intriguing endeavor needs only a few square feet of space, indoors or out. T'ai Chi may be enjoyed alone or with a group. The fact that it is fun, fascinating and convenient contributes to regularity of practice, an important factor in any art. Practiced early in the morning, it is especially propitious, yet it provides a refreshing interlude at any time. Thought of not as a workout, but as a recess, it offers a respite from the slings and arrows of outrageous daily hassles.