Print this pageTai Chi for Health and Self Defense
Tai Chi Chuan, literally translated as "grand ultimate fist" is a style of internal martial arts that comes from China and is mostly known world wide for its fantastic health benefits. Tai Chi theory and practice evolved over hundreds of years in agreement with many of the principles of Chinese philosophy, thus it can be said that it is a physical representation of the harmonic forces of Yin and Yang. Research has found that intensive Tai Chi practice shows tangible benefits by helping with the promotion of balance control, flexibility and cardiovascular fitness. It's slow and gentle movements are low impact and have been known to burn more calories than surfing, which makes it great for anyone who is not able to endure high impact exercise. Tai Chi not only has positive effects physically, but mentally as well. Focusing the mind on its slow and graceful movements, helps bring on a a state of clarity and calmness that aids in managing stress thus leading to a more pleasant overall state of being.
The physical techniques of Tai Chi Chuan are relaxed and void of muscular tension. Because the practitioner does not have to fight his or her own muscle tension, its learned softness allows one to move very quickly when one wishes to speed up. Its martial or combative philosophy is never to meet force with force. For self defense, it relies on utilizing superior angles and leverage to disperse or neutralize an opponents oncoming force thus redirecting an attack with out brutality. This give and take or yin and yang philosophy, allows one to move in harmony with an opponent proving correct the saying "The soft and the pliable will defeat the hard and strong."
Tai Chi For Health and Self Defense Class should consist of light stretching, strength building and balance exercises coupled with basic Qi Gong (breathing work), and the fundamentals of the given method of Tai Chi such as the Yang Style of Tai Chi Chuan. Classes are set in a structured and relaxed learn at your own pace atmosphere and are great for people looking to have a low stress workout and learn self defense.