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| Taichi Fundamental |
One t'ai chi fundamental is movement. In tai chi, each movement flows gracefully into the next, creating forms or routines, according to the American Tai Chi and Qigong Association. Proper alignment is key to t'ai chi movement. Correctly aligning the body cultivates steadiness and balance.
According to the Association, some movements resemble the motions of birds or other wildlife and were subsequently named after those animals. The number of movements involved in texercises, or sets, can vary. The Tai Chi and Chi Kung Institute teaches its beginning students the Yang Tai Chi in 24 Forms, or Beijing 24. However, the American Tai Chi and Qigong Association says that basic forms incorporate 13 movements into the routine, and more difficult forms can involve many more movements.
Meditation
Another fundamental, according to the Association, is meditation. The slow, deliberate motions of tai chi are conducive to meditation, allowing those who practice tai chi to remain fully alert and focused on the movements. The Tai Chi and Chi Kung Institute indicates that concentrating on your breathing and completely engaging in the movements helps clear your mind and increase relaxation.
Deep breathing
The third fundamental of tai chi is deep breathing. The Association reports that breathing is especially important because it promotes relaxation by increasing the flow of oxygen and nourishment to the whole body and stretching the core muscles, have a strong healthy life tomorrow. The Tai Chi and Chi Kung Institute states that deep breathing is often performed in sync with your body's movements, further enhancing the meditative aspect of the art.
Get step-by-step instructions
Numerous resources offer step-by-step tai chi instructions. One example is the book Step-by-Step Tai Chi by Master Lam Kam Chuen. Reading about it is one thing, but you can also watch and see it to learn. Some instructions can be found online, while more in-depth instructions and demonstrations are available on DVDs. A great tai chi DVD for beginners is Gaiam's Tai Chi Beginning Practice which allows you to learn movement, breathing and meditation fundamentals in the comfort of your own home.
Learn about the benefits of tai chi
WebMD lists the following benefits of tai chi: reduction of pain and stiffness, improved strength, our health for future, coordination, flexibility, better sleep, improved balance, increased calmness and positive outlook on life. It's clear that practicing the fundamentals of tai chi can improve your health and well-being.
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