For many, there are no options when it comes to learning Tai Chi Chen. That is, some people may wish to learn tai chi, but there is no qualified master in the area. So, what are the options for them? Thanks to the availability of online tai chi courses, the person can now pursue their interests from anywhere in the world and at any time. Granted, there are limitations placed on what one can learn or how much one can learn in a "learn tai chi online" program, but something is better than the nothing.
While there will be those critics who say you can never master tai chi online, the reality is that different people learn in different ways. Some people may be able to learn quite well through videos, DVDs and books/magazines, while others will really not gain much insight from such online learning tools. Again, it is up to the individual and if the individual is able to effectively learn, then the critics really have nothing to criticize about.
Tai Chi is often referred to as a soft style martial art, because it aims to counter strong force by countering it with a soft movement and "sticking" to it until it gets exhausted, or it can be redirected. The deep breathing, slow movements, rhythmic exercises, all contribute to building a sound muscular, circular, skeletal and mental system. As a result, those with a temper control benefit from the calming effects of tai chi.
What would you do with more energy? What would you do with better balance? What would you do with a healthier mind and body? It won't take up much of your time and no matter what your life situation is with time you do have the time to learn this special martial art when and where you choose to.
Tai Chi is one of the most broadly applicable systems of self-care in the world and is suitable for both young and old alike.
In China, it is estimated that 300 million people alone practice Tai Chi.
Tai Chi however is not just practised in China, in the 20th century it spread throughout the world and as we enter the 21st century, it is more popular than ever.
Tai Chi - The Form
There are several styles of movement and approaches to Tai Chi, some of them historic and some developed in recent years.
Each has its own individual charteristics and carries the name of the clan or family who developed it i.e. Yang, Chen, Wu, Sun etc.
All the principles of Tai Chi are put into practice in a non stop sequence of moves called the form.
Each Tai Chi style has its own distinctive way of presenting the form in terms of: The postures included, the order in which they appear, the way they are performed and finally, how long the form actually takes to complete.
Although the different styles of Tai Chi present the form in different ways, the purpose and the philosophy behind them is the same.
Tai Chi and Health
When Tai Chi is practised, the movement creates streams of energy to flow through the body.
In the philosophy of Tai Chi, it is said Chi (life energy) follows the mind, each posture and movement creates a different energy flow that, has a benifital overall affect on overall well-being.
Tai Chi stimulates circulation, aligns the skeleton and joints correctly, stimulates the organs of the body and helps digestion.
It increases muscle tone, strength, improves balance and co ordination and improves breathing.
Tai Chi does not just provide physical benefits; by raising energy levels, it also affects the mind and the spirit.
Tai Chi focuses thought, so that mind and body energy works together as one. When practising Tai Chi, people find that they are not just physically fitter but, happier, more alert, have greater mental focus and are more creative.
It is this harnessing of mental and physical energy that makes Tai Chi not just a form of exercise; it makes it a life enhancing experience.
Learning Tai Chi
Tai Chi is an exercise for people of all ages and all levels of fitness.
The movements of Tai Chi are non-strenuous, relaxed, slow moving, soft, and flowing.
It has often been described as moving meditation, as it relieves stress and improves concentration.
It is the gentleness and slowness of Tai Chi that makes it so applicable to everyone as a form of exercise.
When you watch Tai Chi being performed, it looks effortless but this comes from a considerable amount of practice.
When taking up Tai Chi it is best to pick an experienced teacher, who can guide motivate and encourage you. Simply, go with someone you are comfortable with.
The style of Tai Chi you pick Chen, Yang, Wu, Sun or any other form, is down to personal preference; the benefits described however apply to all styles.
Both Ray Lam & Stephen Todd are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.