Tai Chi is
a form of qigong (energy cultivation). Based in martial arts movements, Tai Chi
provides training in proper body mechanics and natural alignment. It fosters a
relaxed body and a peaceful state of mind, which are the essential ingredients
for cultivating healthy energy or qi. Even
though Tai Chi is slow and gentle and does not leave you breathless, it
involves the key components of fitness, namely muscle strength, flexibility,
balance and even aerobic conditioning. Meditation in motion at its best!
The
many benefits of practicing Tai Chi have been well documented.
Universities such as Harvard, Emory, and the University of Southern California
among others have found that Tai Chi can:
- Tones muscles without straining
- Ease back pain
- Sharpen mental focus
- Provide cardio-respiratory
conditioning
- Improve balance
- Help with weight loss
- Promote correct body posture
I
- Increase flexibility
- Reduce joint pain
- Improve memory, concentration and
digestion
- Slow bone loss
- Improve cardiac health
- Reduce anxiety and ease
depression
- Boost the immune system
- Reduce risks of falls
- Reduce asthma and allergy
reactions
- Improve coordination
- Increase breathing capacity
- Lower high blood pressure and
heart rate
- Stimulate circulation
- Assist mental well-being through
meditative form
What
is a fan form?
The Tai Chi Fan Form is in part, a martial art, using the fan as a weapon. There
is a long history in Asia of such use by both men and women. For women, of
course, it is particularly effective, as it involves an easily accessible
'feminine' object. This particular fighting fan form is less aggressive, more meditative
than most, while still remaining a viable form of combat. During the routine,
the fan provides a great focal point outside the body which nonetheless allowing
us to connect more deeply with our physical self. It also lends
a level of aesthetic
pleasure to an exercise that is thoroughly unique.
Classes
offered: Shibashi Qigong, Tai Chi for Health (seated and/or standing) and the
Moving Stillness Tai Chi Fan Form.
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