What is Tai Chi?
Tai Chi is a Chinese martial art that is practiced for both its defense training and its health benefits. It is a non-competitive, gentle form of slow physical exercise and stretching. Each posture flows into the next without pause, ensuring that your body is in constant motion. It is often described as “meditation in motion” because it promotes serenity through gentle movements — connecting the mind and body. Originally developed for self-defense, Tai Chi has evolved into a graceful form of exercise that’s now used for stress reduction and a variety of other health conditions.
Tai Chi involves a series of movements performed in a slow, focused manner and accompanied by deep breathing. Tai Chi has many different styles just like any other martial art, each with its own subtle emphases on various Tai Chi principles and methods.
The benefits of Tai Chi may include improved balance and stability, reduced pain and stiffness associated with arthritis, improved muscle strength and flexibility, enhanced respiratory and cardiovascular function, reduced anxiety and depression, and improved overall well-being. Its low-impact movements make it a suitable exercise for many people.
