Tai chi is an ancient Chinese martial art that has been practiced for thousands of years. This low-impact, mind-body exercise combines breath control, meditation, and movements that stretch and strengthen muscles.
The practice of tai chi involves meditation and fluid movements in conjunction with deep breathing that focuses on the area just below your navel. Tai chi theory believes that this area is the body’s storage point for energy, or chi. Tai chi can be gentle or vigorous, depending on the style you practice (there are several different types).Tai chi can be done either in class or at home once you learn the postures, but group sessions are usually preferred.
Some health benefits of tai chi include:
. Improved balance and coordination
. More flexibility
. Increased muscle strength
. Better stamina
Tai chi also helps relieve stress and can even ease chronic lower back pain, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, and tension headaches.
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