The term tai in Chinese is equivalent to great, maximum or supreme. The term chi means center or axis. Therefore, the two joined words refer to an idea: the maximum balance of body and mind.
The different techniques of this oriental discipline are focused on the search for physical and spiritual health. Regardless of its modality, all types of tai chi have the objective of harmonizing the energy of the body to feel better. This approach is based on a principle of Chinese medicine: the state of mind causes diseases and imbalances in the body.
A depressive state causes stomach problems, anger triggers liver problems and sadness compresses the lungs. Because of this, if we are able to control and regulate our mind, our body will feel better. The techniques and movements of Tai Chi are designed so that the serenity of the spirit is projected on the organism.
An uncertain historical origin
There are several legends about its true origin. In any case, Tai Chi has connections with Buddhism and Taoism in Eastern cultures, especially from China.
In the beginning, the exercises of this discipline were carried out for the training of warriors. At present it is no longer a martial art for defense or attack, but rather a physical-spiritual discipline in which its practitioners practice meditation while performing a series of movements. The essential in the exercises consists of performing sequences of fluid, firm and at the same time smooth movements. The forms that are created with the movements of the body resemble a fight with an imaginary rival.
Tai Chi Chuan
Although tai chi has a philosophical and spiritual component, in the tai chi chuan modality it is a discipline of martial arts. Tai chi chuan is a form of combat, but at the same time it refers to the internal struggle of each one with himself to face weaknesses and fears. This martial art is based on three dimensions of the human being: energetic, mental and physical. In this way, its practitioners become experts in this type of fight and at the same time achieve a better balance between their body and their mind.
the usefulness of tai chi
First of all, your usual practice is good for health in a broad sense. Tai chi exercises have a preventive nature of diseases. At the same time, it promotes balance, strengthens the joints and serves as a mental relaxation technique.
Photos: Fotolia-Jenner / Monika Wisniewska
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