I just completed learning the steps to one of the basic Tai Chi forms; this form takes about 4-5 minutes to cycle through. So I do 3-6 in the morning, and three in the evening. Not only are there benefits to bone density, but an aerobic effect strangely enough. The Chinese would say Tai Chi is both dispersing and consoladating, whereas western forms of exercise are mainly dispersing.
The videos, in my experience, are useless, as the subtle movements take time to learn and require modeling by a teacher. Once the steps are learned gradually, they all fall together and become more and more seamless. And, no untoward stimulation of kundalini, as was the case with more intensive forms of Qigong many years ago.
Yes, it is also no wonder why those who practice Tia Chi, Yoga, and meditation tend to live longer as well. I was inspired by an 85 year old male yoga instructor I met recently at a resort, not only due to his amazing flexibility and clear mind, but because he told me that he started at age 50 and could not even touch his toes then. Interesting that my mother who is 84 and was participating in his yoga stretching class along with me began having problems from her blood pressure dropping too low. It seems that the high blood pressure medication she was taking was no longer needed. It is a shame that most U.S. doctors tend to prescribe medication before prescribing more natural treatments. Thanks for sharing some life extending information. Jim
Posts: 11 | Location: traveler | Registered: 22 May 2006
Tai Chi has a lot of benefits, most of which have already been listed by others. One of the most beneficial is that it increases ones sense of balance, and has been found helpful in preventing falls in the elderly.
