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 Although Tai Chi is a Martial Art, and was therefore developed for self-protection, the movements are normally practiced very slowly and carefully in order to develop precision, breath control, balance, co-ordination and internal power. By happy coincidence, this also makes Tai Chi an exceptionally useful type of gentle exercise which scientific studies around the world have proved to be of considerable benefit to the health and well-being of regular Tai Chi practitioners. These are some of the benefits which have been reported: Benefits to Physical Health 1. Lowering of blood pressure and improved circulation. Tai Chi is recommended by the British Heart Foundation to people suffering from heart failure. 2. Improved balance and co-ordination. Tai Chi has been found to reduce the number of falls experienced by older people. This is the main reason for its recommendation by the Osteoporosis Society and by many physiotherapists. It is also weight-bearing exercise which would be expected to help to keep bones strong and healthy. 3. Improved flexibility of joints, which makes Tai Chi particularly helpful in the prevention and treatment of arthritis. 4. Improved posture due to the gentle bending of the knees and dropping of the tailbone, allowing the spine to settle into a natural, comfortable alignment and reducing pressure on the lumbar vertebrae. Tai Chi also encourages the release of tension in the muscles, particularly in the shoulders, neck and back. Many of our students have reported relief from back pain since taking up Tai Chi. 5. Tai Chi breathing increases lung capacity and calms the mind, which may explain why we have found it to be of benefit to people who previously experienced respiratory difficulties such as asthma. Mental Health and Well-being Our students frequently report that they have gained inner confidence, alertness, self-awareness and improved self-esteem. You may like to read some of their comments in the feedback section. Deep relaxation and mental calm allow the world to be seen from a clearer and more balanced perspective. As in any class in which people share a common interest, many friendships are forged in this non-judgemental environment and students tend to help each other towards mastery of this rich and challenging martial art. |
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