JOIN USInvolving exercises that imitate animal movements, Tai chi is recommended for everyone, from the jet-setting professional to those with restricted mobility. Neeraj Mehta pens down its many benefits
What started out as a form of martial arts in China is now making its way into our lives as a form of meditation. Tai Chi, an ancient Chinese practice, also called ‘meditation in motion’ has the practitioner moving slowly and gently with awareness and deep breathing. Known to increase the life energy (chi or qi) flow in one’s body, it combines the yin and yang approach of tranquil movements for health and wellbeing, with a strong system of self-defence. Tai Chi Chuan, which translates to ultimate fast fist, brings about the perfect harmony of the opposite signs of human body (yin and yang). The term ‘chuan’ refers to a boxing method, an empty hand combat and Tai Chi Chuan is based on the Chinese Taoist philosophy of life.
Graceful movements
Tai Chi practice is inclusive of a series of slow motion movements, which are performed without stopping or even pausing. The movements are named on various animals’ actions, such as ‘white crane spread its wings’, ‘basic horse stance’ and so on. In order to make the learning easy, Tai Chi forms are taught in a series of small functional moves such as twist step, extended arms, push and many others. Understanding the move makes it easier to perform it for a longer duration. My experience says that there are few points which need to be considered in order to make the practice more effective:
* Comprehend the motive of the move. If you understand the purpose of a particular move, you will be more likely to perform it with concentration.
* Feel the chi (life energy) flow in the move. Proponents of Tai Chi strongly believe that every human being has a stream of life energy in them, in the form of yin and yang. Through Tai Chi, you can evoke and balance this energy.
The traditional Chinese method of training involved strict routines and was very strenuous. The sessions were known to be long and difficult, involving harsh methods such as practising the movement under a high table until one understands the manner of performing the movements while keeping the body relaxed. But in modern Tai Chi, the training methods are different and easy to learn. One of the major aims of this practice is to teach the practitioner to relax. However, relaxing doesn’t mean letting your body go out of balance. It means using your body as efficiently as possible with no muscular tension. A good posture with relaxed shoulders, an upright back and firmly-rooted stance is of prime importance here.
The martial aspect of Tai Chi is all about power training, which enhances your internal strength. Tai Chi practice demands full concentration of your mind as this soothes your nerves and equips you to handle the day-to-day stress with ease. Remember, a serene mind is able to respond more quickly and proficiently to challenges in any situation.
Goodness quotient
There are innumerable benefits of Tai Chi:
* Stimulates the mind and body to relax; encourages the capillaries to dilate, which takes pressure off the heart. This results in removing the deep-rooted tension associated with
hypertension.
* Increases the flexibility of muscles and movement of the body by removing tension from the joints, organs and channels through its inner cleaning feature.
* Improves muscular and ligament strength, endurance and connective tissues.
* Helps align the skeletal structure to operate in harmony with gravity – thus, maintaining a better balance .
* Helps in a healthy body and mind coordination, which may help in slowing the process of ageing.
* Improves breathing, cardio strength and regulates the internal system.
* Regular practice helps in relieving pain in the body and improves the insulin level.
* Reduces tension through the development of inner energy and calmness of mind.
* The lower abdominal and total torso breathing approach (diaphragmatic breathing) energises all organs with oxygen-enriched blood, reducing the likelihood of cancer.
* Strengthens the immune system and improves the skin tone and texture.
Thanks to its low-impact nature, Tai Chi is recommended for every age group, safe even for people with restricted mobility or joint pains. It is equally helpful for pregnant ladies and seniors.
Though it has many health benefits, it is still not a substitute for medical care. If you have some serious health challenges, it is recommended you consult your doctor before embarking on Tai Chi and always ensure to practice it under the supervision of qualified instructors.
(The author is a fitness expert, nutritionist & director, GFFI Fitness Academy, Delhi)