T’ai Chi Ch’uan is a gentle exercise that is part of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Derived from the martial arts, T’ai Chi is composed of slow, deliberate movements, meditation, and deep breathing, which enhance physical health and emotional well-being.

T’ai Chi is based on spiritual and philosophical ideas that advocate a need for balance in the body, mind and spirit.

How does T’ai Chi work?

Eastern philosophy holds that T’ai Chi unblocks the flow of c’hi (breath/energy). When c’hi flows properly, the body, mind and spirit are in balance and health is maintained. Paying attention to the connection between mind and body can relieve stress, combat disease and enhance physical well-being.

T’ai Chi has three major components:

Movement, Meditation and Deep Breathing

Movement: All of the major muscle groups and joints are needed for the slow, gentle movements in T’ai Chi. T’ai Chi improves balance, agility, strength, flexibility, stamina, muscle tone and coordination. This low-impact, weight-bearing exercise strengthens bones and can slow bone loss, thus preventing the development of osteoporosis.

Meditation: Research shows that meditation soothes the mind, enhances concentration, reduces anxiety and lowers blood pressure and heart rate.

Deep breathing: Exhaling stale air and toxins from the lungs while inhaling a plentitude of fresh air increases lung capacity, stretches the muscles involved in breathing and releases tension. It also enhances blood circulation to the brain, which boosts mental alertness. At the same time the practice supplies the entire body with fresh oxygen and nutrients.

T’ai Chi for Health & Relaxation