The Difference Between T'ai Chi and Other Forms of Physical Exercise

When you consider the roots of T'ai Chi, you can see how it is different from all other forms of exercise. Most people do not know this history, however. And, the focus of the martial art has changed over time. The full name is T'ai Chi Ch'uan. Translated from Chinese to English, this means "supreme ultimate fisted hand." Most people have dropped the "fist" portion of the name, however, as the focus has moved from martial art to becoming one with all things.

T'ai Chi Ch'uan was originally developed to provide an experience of oneness with all things. This wisdom was then applied to a highly disciplined form of martial arts. The movements of T'ai Chi are thought to fill the practitioner with "chi". This is the Chinese word for life force or energy. A goal of T'ai Chi is to master the mental directing of chi using the positions as guides. This is what makes the exercise of T'ai Chi different from other forms of exercise. There is no other activity that combines the health benefits of the flowing movements and combining the mind and spirit with each other.

Anyone in any physical condition can do the forms of T'ai Chi. As long as you can stand up and move your arms and legs, you can do the exercise. Like other forms of exercise each person should do as much as they are physically able. It should not hurt to do T'ai Chi. The longer you keep up the practice, the easier the movements will become. It is also wonderful for stress relief. It is a form of moving meditation.

You will be very surprised at how much better you feel after you have started practicing T'ai Chi. It has helped many people get into better physical shape even after having a medical condition such as heart attacks or strokes. Because it is so gentle, it is not hard for someone who has a bit of physical difficulty to perform.

T'ai Chi is becoming much more popular, as are many Far Eastern styles of physical activity. If you, or someone you know, suffers from physical difficulties, you may want to try T'ai Chi for a bit and see how it will help you. There may even be a class or group in your town that you can join. Ask at your community YMCA or maybe even an your county health agency. You may find this is a form of physical activity you can do and enjoy for a long time to come.

SOURCE

Elinwood, Ellae. "The Everything T'ai Chi and Qigong Book". 2002. Adams Media Corporation. Avon, MA, USA.