TAI CHI  太极

Tai Chi has been referred to as 'yoga in motion', a moving meditation - a powerful key to relaxation, increased focus and concentration.

The graceful images of people gliding through dance-like poses as they practice tai chi (TIE-chee) are compelling. Simply watching them is relaxing. Tai chi, in fact, is often described as "meditation in motion" because it promotes serenity through gentle movements — connecting the mind and body.

Originally developed in China as a form of self-defense, tai chi is a graceful form of exercise that has existed for some 2,000 years. Practiced regularly, tai chi can help you reduce stress and enjoy other health benefits.

Tai chi, sometimes called tai chi chuan, is a noncompetitive, self-paced system of gentle physical exercise and stretching. To do tai chi, you perform a series of postures or movements in a slow, graceful manner. Each posture flows into the next without pausing.

Anyone, regardless of age or physical ability, can practice tai chi. It doesn't take physical prowess. Rather, tai chi emphasizes technique over strength. Tai chi is used to:

* Reduce stress
* Increase flexibility
* Improve muscle strength and definition
* Increase energy, stamina and agility
* Increase feelings of well-being
* Reducing anxiety and depression
* Improving balance and coordination
* Improving sleep quality
* Slowing bone loss in women after menopause
* Lowering blood pressure
* Improving cardiovascular fitness
* Relieving chronic pain
* Improving everyday physical functioning