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Infinite Tai Chi, Chi Kung & Meditation Class
Starts Friday 19th September 2008
Friday evenings from 6.30pm - 8pm
£60 for 10 weeks
Contact reception for more details on 853553
Tai Chi, Chi Kung and Relaxation
The term Tai-Chi refers not merely to a system of physical exercise, it
comes from the ancient Chinese philosophy of Taoism. Tao means the
way, the path, a universal concept implying conscious thought and
participation.
Chi can be translated as vital energy or as the word ultimate, a powerful
life force, while Tai, simply means great. Tai Chi, then is a way of finding
yourself and your own special path through life. In classical Chinese
literature such as the “I Ching” sections of which date back as
far as the Twelfth Century BC, we are told of a state of harmony that
exists in all of nature and this is called The Tai Chi.
The gentle rhythmic movements of Tai Chi and Chi Kung are an ideal
exercise for people of all ages, especially beneficial in improving
co-ordination and balance. The most powerful benefits
of Tai Chi and Chi Kung are that, with practice, it helps people regain a
sense of control over their health. Chi Kung and Tai Chi build a strong
foundation through teaching correct posture and alignment, it helps
you to connect with the earth you are standing on, to find your feet,
build up strength through the legs and waist, and improve the flexibility
in the upper body.
Tai Chi and Chi Kung movements are graceful and circular, low impact
exercises which incorporate full body movement. As well as gradually
building strength and balance, they also promote good breathing and
better blood circulation right through the body, for an overall
feeling of well being.
What is Tai Chi and how can it offer stress relief?
Tai Chi Chuan, or Tai Chi for short, is a self-paced, non-competitive
series of slow, flowing body movements (“forms”) that emphasize acute
concentration, relaxation, and the conscious circulation of vital energy
throughout the body. Though Tai Chi evolved as a martial art
sometime in the 13th century, it is primarily practiced today as a way of
calming the mind, conditioning the body, and reducing stress. The basis
of Tai Chi is the principle of “softness defeating hardness.” Proper stance,
which involves lowering the center of gravity (“sinking”),
is emphasized over muscular strength as a way to access one’s innate
power. Depending on the style of Tai Chi taught, there are between 13 and
108 forms that make up a set when performed continuously. As in
meditation, Tai Chi employs focusing on the breath and
mindfulness, or maintenance of the mind’s attention in the present
moment.
Tai Chi works with the concept of Qi (pronounced “chee”)—a “bio-energy”
that moves throughout the body via invisible energy channels called
meridians. Qi regulates and maintains health in the various systems of
the body by supplying healing energy to the organs. When there are
constrictions in the movement of Qi due to injury,
a “slumping”posture, or other problems, “dis-ease” or stress results. The
muscular movements of Tai Chi remove any blockages and stimulate the
Qi to flow freely. The reported health benefits of Tai Chi include:
* less stress and more peace of mind
* improved ability to deal with difficult situations
* improved balance and proprioception (internal body awareness)
* more strength, stamina, and suppleness
* improved functioning of the internal organs
* easier breathing and better sleep
Tai Chi can improve balance and minimize falls, and is especially suited
for older adults because of its low impact movements. As the Mayo
Clinic points out, Tai Chi is a good exercise of choice because:
* It is self-paced and noncompetitive.
* You don't need a large physical space or special clothing or equipment.
* You can do tai chi anytime, anyplace.
* It is easy to do in groups as well as by yourself.
You can add new movements as you become more proficient.
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