Tai Chi, is a moving form of yoga and meditation combined. Tai Chi, originally a combat martial art, has evolved into a slow deliberate set of “forms” which consist of a sequence of movements. Many of these movements are originally derived from the natural movements of animals and birds.
Most practitioners focus in Tai Chi is that of a meditative exercise for the body similar to Yoga but more fluid and active. Tai Chi and Yoga go together beautifully. Some practitioners, particularly in China, focus more on the combat aspects of Tai Chi. However in the West the subtle, quiet combat style of Tai Chi is not seen as often as other more active and dramatic forms of the combat arts.
Another aim of Tai Chi is to foster a calm and tranquil mind, focused on the precise execution of these exercises. Learning to do them correctly provides a practical avenue for learning about such things as balance, alignment, fine-scale motor control, rhythm of movement, the genesis of movement from the body’s vital center, and so on.
Tai Chi has its roots in the Taoist world view where harmony is the primary goal. The practitioner of Tai Chi focuses on the uninterrupted flow of energy though his body and, in combat Tai Chi, through his opponent’s body. The Tai Chi master in combat often moves very little. He never meets force with force. He always uses the flow of the opponent’s force against him by very subtly redirecting it.
In Chinese philosophy there is the concept of Chi or “force”. It is closely identified with the nervous system. Tai Chi is intended to focus this power and bring it into harmony. It can be thought of an active form of mediation. It is tremendously relaxing and the combination of smooth body movements and meditation make it perfect for reducing stress and calming the mind and body.
samsaranmusing: Tai Chi, is a moving form of yoga and...
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