There is an increased interest in the art and exercise of Tai Chi. It is an art form, meditation, exercise, and strengthening all in one. Dating back all the way back to the 16th century, it has been in practice for a very long time. Tai Chi can be practiced by individuals of all ages seeking a connection with the mind and body, as well as the spirit.
The roots of Tai Chi
Zhang Sanfeng, the creator of Tai Chi, molded the practice around the “energy” that flows throughout the body and how one can experience and control it, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The movements that are derived from Tai Chi are centralized around the idea of “flow of energy,” and using that flow to in a sense increase strength, improve one’s balance, and better enhance coordination. This is also referred to as the qi (chee). The other major aspect to Tai Chi includes balance or Yin and Yang. Harvard Medical School describes it as the Yin and Yang“opposing elements thought to make up the universe that need to be kept in harmony”.
Tai Chi has three different focuses: gentle movements, breathing deep, and meditation for the mind. Incorporating these components into Tai Chi is what creates the art of it all. Gentle movements help keep the body rid itself of built up tension and allows blood flow to circulate anew throughout (UMMC). The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health describes it as a meditation helps to quiet the mind, decrease stress, and improve mood. The overlaying of these three elements gives way to the powerful force found within.
Tai Chi and Tom
NFL pro-star Tom Brady has even recently taken up the practice when visiting China on his off-season adventures this past June. The picture was uploaded to his Instagram account, show casing a different side of himself to the world.
Maybe you are looking for a way to harmonize your mind and your body. Maybe you have not yet had an opportunity to try Tai Chi for yourself. Whatever the case may be, if you are generally looking for a way in improve your overall health with a holistic health approach, maybe Tai Chi is your answer. While preparing to watch Tom and the many other football teams make their way towards the SuperBowl, ensure you make time to find YOUR qi!
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