Carol Anne Strange introduces us to the ancient Chinese art of Tai Chi, sometimes referred to as Meditation in Motion, and looks at the benefits of this graceful form of exercise.

Dawn breaks and out of the morning mist, people emerge like ghosts quietly moving in sequence. This is the daily ritual in China as hundreds congregate in parks and fields, each finding their own space to perform the elegant discipline known as Tai Chi.

The Chinese elders are surprisingly agile, bending and flexing their bodies with apparent ease as they calmly practise the art of `meditation in motion’. To see these people, many grey and wizened on the outside but emanating all the energy of youth, you can only assume that Tai Chi is the elixir for a long and healthy life.

Generations of Chinese believe that correct body movement and posture is synonymous with good vitality. They consider Tai Chi, with its combination of exercise and meditative focus, as a means of moving and balancing the `chi’ (internal energy) through the meridians, or energy pathways, in the body. This vital force is what enhances health and well-being.

Tai Chi, also known as the `grand ultimate’, has its roots in martial arts. Despite its slow, graceful appearance, the forms or sequences are made-up of self-defence techniques that only become apparent when demonstrated at speed. Although it seems to lack the dynamics of other martial arts, Tai Chi is certainly a powerful system and not to be underestimated. Masters of the art have demonstrated its effectiveness as a self-defence tool time and time again. These days, it is fundamentally used to improve and maintain health and wellness.

Engaging mind, body and spirit, the series of controlled movements flow into an eloquent sequence. Just to watch a skilful practitioner performing Tai Chi is a deeply calming experience. Movement is fluent and almost rhythmical and there is a timeless quality that is totally engaging.

In China, many families consider Tai Chi to be just as important as the daily ritual of sleeping and eating. Just 20-30 minutes of exercise each day is enough to revive a tired spirit and instil a wonderful sense of well-being. Although elders appreciate this gentle exercise system for its ease of application, it is a regime also commonly practised by people of all ages. It is excellent for relieving tension and stress-related conditions. Regular practise can improve health on all levels and has proved beneficial in treating existing conditions.

Yang style Tai Chi, founded by Yang Luchan in the 18th century, is still the most popular and widely practised style. It is characterised by its easy, nimble and leisurely pace, which combines vigour with grace. There are many other styles of Tai Chi to include Wu and Chen to suit people of all ages and abilities. All styles are highly valued and there is mutual respect for each system.

Learning Tai Chi

• It is important to find a reputable instructor. Check out your local classes and see whom you feel at ease with. Some traditional instructors still teach the martial arts element while others purely concentrate on teaching the art for health benefits.
• You will need to wear loose, comfortable clothing and soft, plimsoll shoes. Some classes have their own set uniform comprising of either a traditional mandarin suit or t-shirt and leggings.
• Don’t expect too much from the early lessons. It takes time and effort to learn the art and it isn’t something you will master in just a few weeks.
• Although you will certainly make friends with people already practising the art, you may like to consider embarking on a course of training with a friend. This is helpful as it means you can practise the techniques in-between lessons and run through aspects of the art to strengthen your knowledge and appreciation.
• Relax and go with the flow of the lessons. Feel the benefits.

There are different elements to Tai Chi practice. Learning solo forms is fundamental to the art but can take quite a while to learn and a lifetime to then master. There is partner work that concentrates on developing the `chi’ – the internal energy - and building sensitivity and awareness. Qi gong, comprising of stationary exercises aimed at mobilising and regulating vital energy, is also integral to the practice. In the later stages, students learn more advanced forms such as the Tai Chi sword form.

Tai Chi is excellent if you are recovering from illness or injury or haven’t exercised for a while. When performed properly, Tai Chi puts the muscles through a reasonably thorough work-out.

Tai Chi can be practised anywhere and this daily discipline, treasured by the Chinese, is a way of bringing peace, health and harmony into your life. Why not give it a try? There are classes available throughout the country and even a short course will give you a solid introduction to the benefits of this graceful, health-enhancing art.

For more information on how Tai Chi can change your life click here.