Relaxation and martial arts? No problem – if you practice slowly. Just like Taijiquan. Chinese Wushu promotes concentration, coordination and relaxation. Eat smarter explains the reasons behind Asian relaxation.
In China, this is a very common sight: people standing in the park are obviously doing Kung Fu – just at the speed of a snail. Because in China, Taijiquan (or Taijiquan) is a national sport. Slow martial arts are even on the schedule of schoolchildren. At the same time, more and more people are found practicing Tai Chi here.
Where does Taijiquan come from?
According to Chinese tradition, “Qi” is the life energy flowing in each human body. With the help of Taijiquan, this should flow more harmoniously in the body – thus preventing disease, pain and daily problems.
Taijiquan has a history of hundreds of years in China. However, it was not until the Chinese cultural revolution that the government suppressed many traditional arts and expelled Taijiquan masters from China that Taijiquan spread to the western world
What is Tai Chi?
Taijiquan is a traditional Chinese martial arts. These movements are practiced slowly, fluently and thoughtfully. This requires focus and balance. The body should relax and only the muscles that exercise should be tense. Therefore, Tai Chi is not endurance or strength training. An important part of Taijiquan is correct breathing: it should come from the stomach and adapt to the movement.
Taijiquan consists of so-called forms, which consist of a single action (“picture”) and are specified in order. Many tables are named after the number of frames, including the popular short frame or 37 frame table. Some shapes consist of more than 100 images. Sometimes it may take more than an hour to practice a form.
Like many other Asian martial arts, Taijiquan has many different styles and genres. Some styles also include partner exercises that represent combat. Taijiquan also uses weapons, such as sword, fan or long stick.
What does Taijiquan bring?
Slow movements train attention and coordination. Taijiquan can also help relax the body and mind. The good news: anyone can play Tai Chi – until old age. Especially in China, many old people keep healthy and flexible through Taijiquan. Although there are other diseases, such as back pain or cardiovascular disease, you can also practice Taijiquan. Another advantage: Taijiquan does not require any special equipment.
As a beginner, you should learn Taijiquan from an experienced Taijiquan teacher. The so-called Mini form is very popular. Beginners can learn about ten pictures through it.
Is Taijiquan good for health?
A large number of studies have shown that Taijiquan is good for your health. Researchers at the University of North Carolina have found that Taijiquan can alleviate the symptoms of arthritis. Patients with Parkinson’s disease can also benefit from Tai Chi: according to this study, Tai Chi can improve posture and balance. It also minimizes the patient’s risk of falling.
I’m glad to know that in many cases, health insurance companies will bear the cost of Tai Chi courses, at least in part. (boron)