What is Tai Chi?
Tai Chi, also called Tai Chi Chuan, is a soft, inwardly focused Chinese martial art practiced for self-defense, health and well-being. Several major styles have been developed over the centuries, yet despite subtle differences in approach, all emphasize the use of soft, relaxed power in their practice and martial application. Yang Style Tai Chi is the most widely practiced style today, easily recognized by its slow, broad, expansive movements.
Is Tai Chi a form of exercise or a martial art?
Is Tai Chi a form of exercise or a martial art?
It is both, and while students do benefit from an understanding of the martial applications of its movements, it can still be practiced primarily for its benefit to health and well-being.
Who can practice Tai Chi?
Who can practice Tai Chi?
Tai Chi emphasizes the use of relaxed movement and technique over rigid strength, so it can be practiced regardless of age or physical ability. As students develop greater balance and flexibility they are gradually more able to assume lower stances and build relaxed strength. Because it is low impact, it is suitable even for older adults who otherwise may not exercise.
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| Grandmaster Li Mao-Ching in 2004, at 77 years of age |
How is practicing Tai Chi beneficial to health?
Its coordination between relaxed movement and breathing creates a sense of calm, while the concentration required during practice helps establish a greater focus on the present, pushing aside distressing thoughts. These characteristics of its practice have been found to reduce stress, anxiety and depression, help improve mental focus and clarity, and promote a general sense of well-being. Although its movements are slow and relaxed, increases to flexibility, balance and vitality can all be felt over time. It has also been found to lower high blood pressure, improve the quality of sleep, and relieve chronic pain.
If Tai Chi is “soft”, how could it ever be used for self-defense?
Tai Chi develops the ability to use strong energy coming from the mind and body, without unnecessary and unproductive stress or tension being introduced into the muscles. Its movements are generally defensive in nature, aiming to neutralize or deflect attacks. A principle fundamental to its practice is the concept of using “four ounces to deflect 1ooo pounds.”
Is Tai Chi like Kung Fu?
Although it is often thought of as something separate, Tai Chi is one style of Kung Fu, which is a term that refers to all Chinese martial arts. Because the majority of Kung Fu styles tend to be faster, and sometimes harder in their approach, Tai Chi is often put into a separate category, especially in the West.
Is Tai Chi like Kung Fu?
Although it is often thought of as something separate, Tai Chi is one style of Kung Fu, which is a term that refers to all Chinese martial arts. Because the majority of Kung Fu styles tend to be faster, and sometimes harder in their approach, Tai Chi is often put into a separate category, especially in the West.
