fbpx
Saturday, November 9 2024

 

Photo Credit: Pixaby

 

On a sunny day at the local park in the United States, you might be lucky enough to see someone practicing an ancient art called Tai Chi.

 

Tai Chi is an ancient form of chinese martial arts, where the practice involves slow and gentle body movements in coordination with the breath. Originally, it was practiced as form of defense but was later refined into a form of exercise.

 

A taoist monk named Chang San-Feng, was the first to create an original set of movements that mimic the movement of animals, and these movements were also then combined with traditional meditation techniques similar to those found in Buddhism and Yoga practices.

 

The spirituality of the practice focuses on the concepts of yin and yang, which are two opposing forces of life, as well as on the concept of qi or life force. This is similar to the concept of Prana, found in Indian Ayurvedic practice, as well as to vim vitae in ancient latin. Since some of the moves invoke certain aspects of nature, it is common to practice in outdoor spaces like parks, and often times people also practice in groups.

 

A group practice in a park, Photo Credit: WikiCommons

 

Tai chi is not only a beautiful practice on the outside, but also a powerful tool for health on the inside. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health reports that some of the health benefits of the practice include improved bone health, cardiopulmonary fitness, and balance. Of course, the practice also encourages better mental and emotional well-being as well.

 

Tai chi is a practice that almost anyone can participate in, as it is low impact and great for people with all levels of experience with exercise. Thousands of videos like the one below, can be found on Youtube or purchased on DVD, which guide beginners and experts alike through the movements.

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7D7qAQ720x8

 

The second video shows a group of practices in San Francisco, United States in a performance during Asian Heritage week.

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MJzNk2yj9Ic

 

Slowing down to such simple movements may be the best way to de-stress next time you are feeling overwhelmed, so give it a try!

Previous

International Marriage Equality

Next

Culture Shock: The Land of Plenty, or The Land of Grossly Too Much?

About Author

Sarah Ash

Sarah is a lover of all things spiritual, and has thoroughly enjoyed covering the spirituality beat during this spring semester. She is a fan of yoga, hiking, and positive vibes. She is currently a communications and branding intern with SparkWild Media, in Fort Collins, CO.

Check Also

Verified by MonsterInsights