What is T’ai Chi?
T’ai Chi Ch’uan is a Chinese martial art that is most often practiced in a gentle rather than rigorous fashion, and which has many therapeutic effects. T’ai Chi Ch’uan is a highly developed system of interconnected workouts and meditations which work together to develop the mind, strengthen the body and refine the spirit. In fact, T’ai Chi Ch’uan comprises three distinct but inseparable activities. First of all, T’ai Chi can be described as a Chinese martial art which anyone can do, that combines the fundamentals of self-defense with beautiful and continuous low-impact rhythmic movement. The result is a comprehensive exercise routine that adapts itself to the individual. Practicing T’ai Chi Ch’uan develops strength, expands flexibility, improves coordination and increases cardiovascular efficiency — but T’ai Chi does all these things in a way that may be more healthful than many other forms of exercise, without forcing or straining, and with an inner-directed mindfulness and attention
