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mercredi 17 avril 2013

See What's Happening At Tai Chi Toronto

By Camille Nicholson


When people think of martial arts they typically imagine body contact with fighting, kicking, and punching. Not so with tai chi. Tai Chi Toronto offers a gentler martial art form that is done in a slow and meditative way. This ancient Chinese art form offers peace, relaxation, and inner calm and has been documented to be 2,500 years old. It comes from the practice of Qigong and has been used as a self-defense art by using ones inner energy to neutralize the enemy.

The study of tai chi is to assist in the flow of Qi. Traditional Chinese medicine teaches that human beings are made up of the interaction of the five elements of earth, wood, fire, water, and metal. Qi is considered to be the life force that travels along the meridians of the body. A healthy body is achieved when Qi is flowing in a balanced and smooth manner.

The discipline of Qigong, which is what tai chi evolved from, involves movement, breath, and the mind to create a naturally balanced flow of energy that can be used in self-defense, recreation, or work. Many forms have evolved, in fact there are more than 3,000, and there are five major traditions: medical, martial arts, Confucian, Buddhist, and Taoist. The two major types are hard and soft. Tai chi is an example of soft qigong or inner qigong.

There are three popular styles of tai chi: yang, tai chi chih, and wu. Yang is the most difficult of the three, it has 24 simple movements and 100 traditional movements. The stance is wide with the knees bent. Tai chi chih has a high stance, 20 movements, and minimal weight transfer. Wu has 24 to 36 short form movements and 100 traditional movements with a narrow stance and slightly bent knees.

It is believed, in China, that the benefits of this practice are delayed aging and prolonged life. Although it has not been scientifically proven, it is said the practice strengthens the muscles and tendons, increases flexibility, and aids in the treatment of depression, skin diseases, arthritis, heart disease, cancer, and digestive disorders. There is, however, some evidence in a special tai chi study that support the effects on health, balance and falling, and fitness.

There is not enough research to say how much tai chi one should do to achieve optimal results. Some studies have shown that as little as one hour a week is enough. However, many people like to work out two to three times a week. Most think that at least one year of practice is required before one is proficient.

Wear something that is loose and comfortable, the simpler the better. Avoid layers as this practice can work up a sweat even though it is a slow and meditative set of movements. One can simply wear their favorite pair of sweats, leotards, tights, and a t-shirt, whatever is in the closet will work fine. No special uniform is required for this martial art.

If you are looking for a way to reduce stress contact Tai Chi Toronto. This practice can improve well-being, balance, flexibility, muscle strength, and aerobic capacity. It has been practiced for centuries in China. This martial art adds something a little different to an exercise routine.




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