Ledgendarily founded nearly 1,000 years ago by the Taoist Chang San-Feng, T'ai-Chi Ch'uan (pronounced "tie-gee-chwan") is an ancient Chinese slow-motion excercise for health, self-defense, mental development, and meditation. The name "T'ai-Chi" signifies the harmonious balance and ultimate unity of opposing forces in the universe.

Self-Defense

While most martial arts depend upon developing superior strength or speed, T'ai-Chi Ch'uan is unique in that its basis for mastery lies in the development of sensitivity. As sensitivity, technique and strategy are developed, the use of brute force becomes unnecessary. Aggressive actions directed toward the practitioner are neutralized and directed away, resulting in a non-aggressive, purely defensive martial art. Each T'ai-Chi posture has a practical application for self-defense, which is taught in a non-competitive and non-aggressive manner.

Health

A "round"of T'ai-Chi will excercise every muscle group in the body for both strength and flexibility. It yields the benefits of calisthenics, but in a pleasant and relaxed way. By following the body's own natural movement patterns, blood circulates more efficiently to the organs, tissues, and cells, increasing their vitality. The calm, deep breathing done in T'ai-Chi increases oxygen intake, which produces aerobic benefits without unduly stressful workouts. In addition, the vital energy, or ch'i (chee), is drawn into each part of the body, resulting in an energized, well-functioning body, which is the basis of good health.

Mental Development

The slow, calm, continuous movement of the postures helps the body to become relaxed and centered. As the body rids itself of stress and tension, the mind (given the mind and the body are really one) also becomes centered and tranquil. With a calm, stress-free mind, we can concentrate on the truly important aspects of our lives. Following the Taoist Philosophy of Yin and Yang (the balance and union of opposites), we learn to balance and harmonize conflicting demands in our lives and to deal with those around us in a flexible, non-aggressive manner.

Meditation

T'ai-Chi utilizes Taoist meditation techniques to promote development of the inner self, or spirit. Taoists believe that these methods clear the body's energy channels, allowing the ch'i to circulate freely. This results in a clear mind and a strong spirirt of vitality. The practitioner's individual energy harmonizes with the energy of the universe, creating a sense of oneness with the universe.

Why is T'ai-Chi important today?