How does tai chi work?
There are various perspectives on how tai chi works. Eastern
philosophy holds that tai chi unblocks the flow of qi (aka: Chi, Ki,
Prana, Holy Spirit, Universal Life Energy, etc). When qi energy flows
properly, the body, mind, and spirit are in balance and health is
maintained.
Others believe that tai chi works in the same way as other mind-body
therapies, and there is ample evidence that
paying attention to the connection between the mind and the body can
relieve stress, combat disease, and enhance
physical well-being.
Tai chi has three major components:
Movement—all the major muscle groups and joints are needed
for the slow, gentle movements in tai chi. Tai chi improves balance,
agility, strength, flexibility, stamina, muscle tone, and coordination.
This low-impact, weight-bearing exercise strengthens bones and can slow
bone loss, thus preventing the development of osteoporosis.
Meditation—research shows that meditation soothes the mind,
reduces anxiety, enhances concentration, and lowers blood pressure and
heart rate.
Deep breathing—exhaling stale air and toxins from the lungs while
inhaling a plentitude of fresh air increases lung capacity, stretches
the muscles involved in breathing, and releases tension. It also
enhances blood circulation to the brain, which boosts mental alertness.
At the same time, the entire body is supplied with fresh oxygen and
nutrients.
What conditions respond well to tai chi?
Tai chi improves overall fitness, coordination, and agility. People
who practice tai chi on a regular basis tend to have good posture,
flexibility, and range of motion, are more mentally alert, and sleep
more soundly at night.
Tai chi is both a preventive and a complementary therapy for a wide
range of conditions. Specifically, it is beneficial for chronic pain,
gout, heart disease, high blood pressure, arthritis, osteoporosis,
headaches, and sleep disorders. Tai chi is also beneficial for the
immune system and the central nervous system, which makes it especially
good for people with a chronic illness, anxiety, depression, or any
stress-related conditions.
The deep breathing of tai chi regulates the respiratory system, helping
to treat respiratory ailments such as asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema.
It also stimulates the abdomen, which aids digestion and helps relieve
gastrointestinal conditions.
Tai Chi improves balance. Many studies indicate that elderly people who
practice tai chi are much less prone to falls, a serious health risk to
people in that age group.
Are there conditions that should not be treated with tai chi?
Tai chi is safe for everyone, regardless of age or athletic ability,
and can be modified for most health problems. People with limited
mobility can learn and successfully use tai chi. Your body will tell you
how you can do the practice today and that will change. Tai Chi is not
meant to replace medical care for a serious condition. Talk to your
doctor and your instructor about any health problems or recent injuries
you may have. Be patient with yourself and invite your breath as you
move.
Is there anything I should look out for?
Tai chi exercises muscles in areas of your body that may have been
neglected for a while. Therefore, you may feel sore in the beginning. It
takes time to develop the posture, flexibility and agility that comes
with tai chi, so don’t get discouraged. It all evolves with the
practice.
Blessings on your practice,
Ron Barron
Adapted from the reference library of Ozark Natural Foods Co-op and
other sources.