TAI CHI CHUAN (Taijiquan)

Translating as ‘Supreme Ultimate Fist’, Tai Chi Chuan (Taijiquan) is what is known as an ‘internal’ martial art. Its ancient roots are in the martial arts and can be found several hundred years ago in central China. It began as a fighting art, based on the idea of being soft and yielding. ‘The unbending breaks whilst the yielding survives’ Tao Te Ching Over the years a number of different styles have developed and most recently there has been a shift of emphasis from the martial to the health aspect. The Yang style, as taught at ‘Bubbling Springs’ is one of the most popular and the most gentle style practised in the West, (although there are variations even within the Yang style), whilst the Sun style forms the basis of the Tai Chi for Arthritis program. The essential principles of Tai Chi are based on the Chinese philosophy of Taoism, which stresses the natural balance in all things, and on Traditional Chinese Medicine, which aims to open the meridian system and to encourage the flow of chi energy throughout the body. Tai Chi Form is a sequence of slow, spiraling flowing movements, whilst the exercises are gentle. It is also sometimes referred to as ‘meditation in movement’. WHAT CAN IT DO FOR YOU? People of all ages and abilities can practise Tai Chi. No specific skills are necessary, just an open mind and a will to learn. Tai Chi is different for different people. From gentle exercise – to an holistic experience. As an ‘internal’ martial art it integrates mind, body and spirit. Body : On a purely physical level Tai Chi is a wonderful exercise for joint flexibility, balance, circulation and muscle strength. It is reputed to help with blood pressure and is recognized by the Arthritis Council for its benefits to those who suffer with arthritis. Mind : To practise Tai Chi well, complete mental focus is required. It is the calming meditative aspect of Tai Chi that makes it particularly effective at reducing stress and anxiety. With regular practice awareness of both body and environment improve, and a calmer outlook on life is acquired. Mental agility is increased. Spirit: Tai Chi will lift the spirits! A happier, healthier, more balanced mind and body can do no less. Regular practice will improve internal balance, modify the nature and encourage mental quietness. ‘Whoever practises Tai Chi correctly will gain the pliability of a child, the strength of a lumberjack and the peace of mind of a sage’. Chinese Proverb