What is Tai Chi?

What is tai chi?  “ The slowest way to kill a man!” said a friend’s young son. You see groups of people stretching in the park or yin yang symbols dotting club walls and wonder - is this for me? For many, the thought of wearing silken pyjamas en masse is just too weird.  

Let’s start at the beginning.

If you’re after a strict definition - As I am not a master you might like to look up Wikipedia or one of the many other tai chi websites to find an explanation that satisfies you.

Here’s a great one from The Harvard Medical School Guide to Tai Chi.

“Tai Chi" is a simplified abbreviation of the more formal name Tai Chi Chuan…Tai translates literally as “great” or “large.  Chi is used as a superlative, for example “biggest” or “most ultimate”. Together they are used to characterize the philosophical concept of the all-encompassing yin-yang principle, often translated as Supreme Ultimate." Whew! And that’s before we even get to Chuan. Although this is correct, the concept as a whole can be a bit overwhelming at first glance.

Chungliang Al Huang expresses the key concepts and secrets of tai chi through calligraphy which I find fascinating. Basically, tai chi through specific movements allows us to harness energy around us and within us. Rather than relying solely on medication or ongoing treatments, we can develop a sense of wellness within ourselves by regular exercise - or more particularly - simply by doing tai chi.

Why I love tai chi

Practicing out in the open air is always peaceful

I love tai chi because I can practice it outside on the verandah, in the park, at the beach, or even at home. I don’t need to wear special garments, just loose comfortable clothing. And I can do it whenever I have a spare moment. Regular classes are important, especially at the beginning, to ensure your posture and balance are correct. Breathing techniques are also introduced.

Feeling at ease and being comfortable is the most important point. If you are stressed, it will create tension within your body that can lead to ill health. Everyone is different so take your time when starting out.  For some, a feeling of calm is achieved immediately while for others it takes longer. Mastery of the self, or self-discipline cannot be hurried. So never worry, just do, just be and enjoy yourself.