| What the Philosophy of Tai Chi Can Do For You |
| Written by Stephen Todd | |
|
Taoist Philosophy To understand the purpose of the form it is important to understand its basis and roots. In Tai Chi this manifests itself in that a posture will always be difficult and a struggle, unless there is union of mind and body, to make the move an effortless interaction. Yin and Yang Another concept in Chinese philosophy related to change is yin and yang. These two opposing, yet complimentary forces are constantly at work in the universe and in our lives. Yin and yang are the basis of change but they also come together in harmony to create a balanced whole. The simplest example of this is breathing. We breathe in and we breathe out - an opposing action that comes together to create balance and harmony. Change and harmony, is the basis of yin and yang and of Tai Chi. The principles of yin and yang are reflected in the form the sequence of movements that make up the Tai Chi discipline. The form is actually a sequence of movements that flow continuously representing both change and harmony. A movement begins, grows completes and empties then another begins until the sequence is completed. The Tai Chi Philosophy The aim of the Tai Chi form is to create streams of energy to flow through the body. In the philosophy of Tai Chi, it is said Chi (life energy) follows the mind; each posture and movement creates a different energy flow, which, has a beneficial overall affect on overall well-being. Tai Chi stimulates circulation, aligns the skeleton and joints correctly, stimulates the organs of the body and helps digestion. It increases muscle tone, strength, improves balance and co ordination and improves breathing. |