WHAT IS TAI CHI?

Originating in ancient China as a martial art, Tai Chi is one of the most effective exercises for health of mind and body.

Although it is an art with great depth of knowledge and skill, it can be easy to learn and soon delivers its

health benefits. For many, it becomes a lifetime journey.

There are many styles and forms of tai chi, the major ones being Chen, Yang, Wu and Sun. Each style has its own features, but all styles share the same essential principles.

The Solivita Tai Chi class teaches the Yang style.

The essential principles include mind integrated with the body; control of

movements and breathing; generating internal energy, mindfulness and serenity.

The ultimate purpose of tai chi is to cultivate the qi or life energy within us to flow

smoothly throughout the body. Total harmony of the inner and outer self comes

from the integration of mind and body through the practice of tai chi. Although tai

chi is a martial art, the vast majority of participants (especially seniors ) do so for

the well documented health benefits of tai chi.

A typical class begins with a series of gentle warm up exercises to loosen your muscles and joints. This is followed by instruction and practice of tai chi forms. In this low -impact, slow-motion exercise, you go through a series of

motions named for animal actions —for example, "white crane spreads its wings" — or martial arts moves, such as "parry and punch". + As you move, you breathe deeply and naturally, focusing your attention —as in some

kinds of meditation —on your bodily movements. Tai chi differs from other  types of exercise in several respects. The movements are usually circular and never forced, the muscles are relaxed rather than tensed, the joints are not

fully extended or bent, and connective tissues are not stretched. The class concludes with a series of QiGong breathing exercises.

Don't be intimidated by the language.

You don't have to subscribe to or learn the Chinese philosophy behind tai chi to enjoy it and realize it's benefits. But, the concepts can help you understand the tai chi approach to health and fitness.

Solivita tai chi classes are free and you do not have to join our club.

You are welcome to come and observe the class or join in.

There is much more to tai chi than can be readily seen and virtually no one can describe such a complex art in just a few sentences. It’s aesthetically pleasing, easy and enjoyable to practice. It can be a meditation and an integral exercise for all parts of the body and the mind. It brings tranquility and helps you think more clearly. Tai chi can be many things for different people.