What can an ancient Chines method
of self-defense do to improve your health? When the method is t’ai chi ch’uan,
the answer is plenty. Although originally developed hundreds of year ago as a
way for soldiers to overtake their opponents during battle, today t’ai chi is practiced
as a disciplined form of no-impact exercise to strengthen muscles and joints,
harmonize breathing, and improve circulation.
Like yoga, t’ai chi involves a
number of postures and specific breathing techniques. Unlike yoga, the postures
are don in succession, creating dancelike movements that, in the words of
Chines philosopher, are “as smooth as pulling silk from cocoon’. It is, in fact,
the fluidity of the t’ai chi moves, along with the breathing and balance
techniques, that contribute to its ability to lower hypertension, reduce the
risk of developing cardiovascular disease, alleviate back pain, stomach ulcers,
and gastrointestinal problems, and help fight anxiety.
In addition,
two studies published in the Journal of the America Geriatrics Society revealed
that seniors over 70 who had done three months of t’ai chi were able to improve
both their balance and their strength. Additional research from Emory
University in Atlanta from that seniors over 70 who participated in regular
sessions of t’ai chi reduced their risk of falling more than 47 percent.
As with
yoga, however, t’ai chi does require some professional training, so it’s wise
to start out taking a class with a qualified teacher. If done correctly, some
of the movements used in t’ai chi can cause injury. When done correctly,
however, and under proper guidance, this form of exercise is not only safe but
stress-free.
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MARCH 18
