Tai chi is a way of moving. You’ve probably seen photos, or seen it in movies. Usually a group of people doing graceful, slow-moving exercises. In China, this particular way of moving is practiced by over 200 million people.
Tai chi is a way to work directly with one’s qi, or life force. This is what makes it different from other forms of movement and exercises.
qiCHē/noun
Qi, Life Force. A lack of qi will leave you sluggish and dull. And if you have zero, you’d be dead . When in abundance, it leaves you feeling vibrant and alive, and excited about all of the possibilities in life.
Tai Chi Develops Qi. Tai chi movements develop and increase life force. But understanding this concept can be challenging. Explanations you’ll find may be littered with words you can’t pronounce and definitions that are equally difficult to understand.
If you become familiar with a few concepts your understanding of tai chi will be easier, and more enjoyable Read more about tai chi and energy here.
Tai chi vs Qi Gong. Because tai chi works directly with qi, it is often confused with another Chinese exercise known as qi gong.
Although qi gong exercises typically focus on improving a specific type of qi flow, the goal of tai chi and qi gong are the same. In tai chi, practitioners strive to improve all qi flow in each movement.
The Perfect Exercise. Tai chi is often referred to as the Perfect Exercise. It is easily accessible to everyone, beneficial for every age and fitness level, it is low impact with a low injury rate, and the fitness benefits are high.
Beginning your tai chi practice is easy, and benefits are great.