Try Something Different At Tai Chi Toronto

By Camille Nicholson


Many people think that martial arts involve fighting, punching, kicking, and body contact. Tai Chi Toronto offers a very different martial art form that is rhythmic, slow and meditative to enhance peace, inner calm, and relaxation. This centuries old Chinese martial art comes from the ancient discipline of Qigong and has been documented to be at least 2,500 years old. The movements are slow and meditative, designed to promote peace, inner calm, and is a form of self-defense. Movements use inner energy to neutralize an attacker.

Traditional Chinese medicine teaches that the human body is a small version of the universe that interacts with the five elements of wood, water, earth, fire, and metal. Energy runs through the body via meridians, this energy is referred to to Qi. A healthy body has perfectly balanced qi with smooth flow.

The ancient art of Qigong incorporates breath, the mind, and movement creating balance in energy flow which can then be used for self-defense, in recreation, or work. There are over 2,000 forms that have evolved from this one art, tai chi being one of them. The five main traditions are Taoist, martial arts, medical, Confucian, and Buddhist and there are hard types and soft types. Inner qigong, or soft qigong, is the form that tai chi comes from.

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.

The benefits of tai chi are a longer life and a delay in the aging process, according the Chinese belief. It has not been scientifically proven, but it is thought that this martial art can increase flexibility, strengthen tendons and muscles, and aid in the treatment of arthritis, digestive disorders, cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure, depression, and skin diseases. In a special tai chi study, it was shown that there are benefits in fitness, balance and falling, and health.

Studies have shown that merely one hour a week of practice can product positive benefits, although this is not supported by scientific research. Many people who practice say that they like to do at least two if not three days a week. It is suggested that one practice for at least a year in order to become proficient in the art.

The best type of clothing to wear when practicing should be something loose-fitting and comfortable. A simple t-shirt, leotards, tights, or sweatpants are perfect. You can work up a sweat, even though the movements are slow, so keep it simple and don't overdress.

Try this unique and ancient form of martial arts to achieve relaxation and provide many beneficial health benefits as well. To improve flexibility, well-being, muscular strength, and aerobic capacity contact Tai Chi Toronto.




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