Introduction

Why T’ai chi? Low-impact Flowing Continuous Not sport like http://members.shaw.ca/alanjstewart/TaiChi/TaiChi24form.gif

Low-impact

Flowing

Continuous

Not sport like

What is T’ai Chi? Chinese martial art form which enhances both physical and emotional well-being Resembles karate or judo but slower and more methodical Combines yoga and meditation http://www.novamartialarts.com/img/YinYang.gif

Chinese martial art form which enhances both physical and emotional well-being

Resembles karate or judo but slower and more methodical

Combines yoga and meditation

continued When performing T’ai Chi a person is practicing breathing exercised and a series of slow, graceful, flowing postures simultaneously. Movements are said to improve body awareness and enhance strength and coordination http://www.diseaseproof.com/taichi.jpg

When performing T’ai Chi a person is practicing breathing exercised and a series of slow, graceful, flowing postures simultaneously.

Movements are said to improve body awareness and enhance strength and coordination

History Developed in Ancient China as early as 225 AD Believed that the body was filled with energy, or chi, but chi could become blocked, causing illness and disease. T’ai Chi improves the flow of chi throughout the body and improves health by practicing said exercises. http://www.sai-long.org/taichi1.jpg

Developed in Ancient China as early as 225 AD

Believed that the body was filled with energy, or chi, but chi could become blocked, causing illness and disease.

T’ai Chi improves the flow of chi throughout the body and improves health by practicing said exercises.

Variations of T’ai Chi Some types vary in intensity and focus Sun style = fast footwork Hao style = low-impact, elderly or special needs participants http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2179/2284977041_5aee79eef2.jpg

Some types vary in intensity and focus

Sun style = fast footwork

Hao style = low-impact, elderly or special needs participants

Benefits of T’ai Chi Improves Strength Flexibility Respiratory function http://www.elements4health.com/images/stories/fitness_articles/tai-chi.jpg

Improves

Strength

Flexibility

Respiratory function

Where to start? Classes at YMCA, community center or gym Private classes DVD, websites Dress comfortably Barefoot, socks or sneakers http://www.climatechangefestival.org.uk/event/images/uploads/event/large/Tai_Chi_in_the_park_Birmingham_07.jpg

Classes at YMCA, community center or gym

Private classes

DVD, websites

Dress comfortably

Barefoot, socks or sneakers