About - Taiji

What is Taiji?

Taijiquan (sometimes spelled Tai Chi Chuan) is the most popular form of Chinese martial art in the world. Originally a system of self defence, it is today practised by millions of people as a means of keeping healthy and flexible.

It’s smooth and graceful movements make it unique in that taiji can be practised by anybody regardless of age or level of physical fitness.

Taiji means ‘ultimate polarity’. This refers to the Yin and Yang (the two poles), Quan means ‘fist’ so ‘Taijiquan’ means a martial art based on the understanding of yin and yang.

Why is Taiji good for you?

In today’s society two of the major factors that cause illness are stress and poor posture. According to Chinese medicine ‘Running water never goes stagnant’ this means that for optimum health the body needs to move!

Unfortunately, many forms of exercise put so much demand on the joints and heart that they are counter productive in that while they may make one fit, they do not make one healthy.

Taijii is practised slowly and methodically with full attention given to postural allignment and opening and closing of the joints, it promotes good posture and deep breathing, both essential for optimum health.

Because it is performed in a deliberate way, the mind becomes clear and stable as the body relaxes and the breathing slows. This is moving meditation and is a wonderful antidote to a stressful life!

What is Qigong?

Qigong (sometimes spelled ‘Chi kung’) means ‘energy exercises’ and these range from simple stretches to standing exercises to build energy.

The taiji forms are considered to be forms of moving Qigong . To master taiji one must be sensitive to the movements of subtle energy in the body, this can occur when the body is relaxed and the mind is quiet.

According to Chinese medicine, energy runs in twelve main pathways in the body, these are known as ‘meridians’. Keeping these flows of energy strong and unobstructed is the key to health. This can be achieved with acupuncture, massage and Qigong exercises including Taijiquan.

BENEFITS:

e• Can be practised by all ages and fitness levels.
• Gentle, relaxing classes leaving you energised, yet calm.
• Keep your body healthy and supple into old age.
• Helps improve posture and breathing.
• Helps improve balance and strengthen muscles.

Check out our Taiji Videos!

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