Very few adults in today’s society are unaware of the benefits of physical exercise, but being aware is no substitute for taking action. Simply put, to get the benefits of looking and feeling better both physically and mentally, you have to do the exercise. For many of us, that presents a problem.
Not everyone can afford a personal trainer, or even membership in a good gym and the sad fact is that many who have such an opportunity doesn’t take advantage of it. A busy schedule in a fast-paced lifestyle is just not conducive to regular exercise if it means interrupting or curtailing work-related activity. Age and poor health are the other common excuses for not exercising, and most of us can come up with half a dozen other ‘legitimate’ reasons for avoiding the issue.
Here is where tai chi can come to the rescue. It requires no equipment of any kind, though loose, comfortable clothing and flat-soled shoes are highly recommended. It can be practiced alone or with others, and can be done effectively in any setting, indoors or out. Tai chi originated with the ancient Chinese as a form of self defence and part of the martial arts, but has evolved and diversified to fit the varied requirements of the modern world.
The basics of Tai Chi involve concentration, stretching and steady movement rather than vigorous exertion. It is an aerobic, low-impact exercise using a series of slow, graceful movements, from very basic 20 or 24 distinct moves on up to hundreds in the more advanced forms. Tai chi is becoming more and more popular with medical professionals who have verified positive results in many areas, with stress reduction at the top of the list.
The benefits of this form of exercise include but are certainly not limited to increased flexibility and balance, improved muscle tone and overall strength and endurance. The Chinese believe that performing these controlled, meditative exercises improves the flow of energy along passages in the body called meridians. A smooth flow of energy calms the mind, relaxes the body and leads to a sense of well-being and confidence that encompasses the mental as well as physical realms.
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