Why Tai Chi?
From Using Tai Chi to Build Strength, by Jane Brody
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It is a low-impact activity suitable for people of all ages and most states of health, including those who have long been sedentary or "hate" exercise.
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It is a gentle, relaxing activity that involves deep breathing but does not work up a sweat or leave you out of breath.
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It does not place undue stress on joints and muscles and therefore is unlikely to cause pain or injury.
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It requires no special equipment or outfits, only lightweight, comfortable clothing.
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Once proper technique is learned from a qualified instructor, it is a no-cost activity that can be practiced anywhere, anytime.
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In addition, Tai Chi: ​
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Strengthens the lower body, improves posture, promotes flexibility
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Increases a person’s awareness of where the body is in space and improves one’s ability to navigate obstacles while walking
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If you should trip, Tai Chi can enhance your ability to catch yourself before you fall
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Counters the fear of falling, which discourages people from being physically active and further increases their likelihood of falling and being injured
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Brody, J. (2018, September 10) Using Tai Chi to Build Strength. The New York Times
From the Mayo Clinic, Healthy Lifestyle – Stress Management: “Tai Chi helps reduce stress and anxiety. And it also helps increase flexibility and balance.”
When learned correctly and performed regularly, Tai Chi can be a positive part of an overall approach to improving your health. The benefits of Tai Chi may include:
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Decreased stress, anxiety, and depression
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Improved mood
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Improved aerobic capacity
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Increased energy and stamina
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Improved flexibility, balance and agility/mobility
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Improved muscle strength and definition
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Enhanced quality of sleep
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Enhanced immune system
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Lowered blood pressure
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Improved joint pain
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Improved overall well-being
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Reduced risk of falls in older adults
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Mayo Clinic Staff. (2021, February 26) Healthy Lifestyle: Stress Management [Tai Chi]. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.
1. Awareness: Tai chi practice develops focus and mindful awareness.
2. Intention: Tai chi practice actively uses images and visualization to enhance its health effects.
3. Structural Integration: Tai chi practice focuses on good posture and how a person positions the body. Good body positioning leads to better body function, and better function leads to better posture.
4. Active Relaxation: Tai chi practice is a form of moving meditation, using flowing and relaxing movements.
5. Strengthening and Flexibility: Tai chi uses slow movements that are done repetitively. Weight is shifted from leg-to-leg and different parts of the body are flexed and extended.
6. Natural, Freer Breathing: Tai chi practice teaches breathing skills, leading to many health benefits.
7. Social Support: Tai chi practice can involve being a part of a group class. This allows people to form community.
8. Embodied Spirituality: Tai chi practice allows the body, mind, and spirit to work together which helps a person focus on how they connect with others around them.
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Minichiello, V. (2020, May 29) Introduction to Tai Chi and Qi Gong for Whole Health. Whole Health Information for Veterans. U.S Department of Veterans Affairs.
