Benefits of Tai Chi Chuan

Medical research has shown that tai chi practice is effective for reducing stress and enhancing immune function. It is a gentle and safe exercise, and is therefore beneficial to young and old, fit or in need of “work.” Few exercises offer such a strong method to counter stress. Those who understand its principles and engage those principles truly enjoy tai chi practice.

One NIH Study noted better resistance to shingles or milder cases for those that came down with shingles.  Another journal study noted better balance for recovering stroke patients.

There have been numerous studies that indicate even after a relatively short period of training that participants improve balance, blood lipid levels, have fewer falls and reduced their anxiety levels. Much of the research on tai chi is done with senior citizens. It interests me that though the elderly are less likely to change, tai chi still manages to create measurable changes even with this study group. It demonstrates the subtle yet powerful viability of tai chi for all ages.

Tai chi is meditation, health exercise and a martial art all rolled into one. In general, students feel more relaxed and “centered” as a result of practice. A physical feeling of being grounded and in touch with your surroundings occurs naturally. Tai chi offers health benefits and an approach to living that enhances daily activities and living. In addition, with a proper attitude toward the principles of tai chi, it can offer a comprehensive alternative method for meeting many of life’s challenges.

Tai chi is the intersection of “doing” with “being” or “non-doing.” Many of us understand the necessity of “doing” and “getting things done,” but we profoundly do not understand the value of “being” or “allowing life to happen.” The result of tai chi can be an invaluable method to accomplish tasks with efficiency, less effort and greater enjoyment.

Tai Chi Chuan students report that the benefits of their practice include:

  • Improved health
  • More relaxation
  • “Centeredness”
  • Calmness in the face of adversity
  • Improved posture
  • Greater concentration
  • Better physical balance
  • Sense of well-being
  • Greater physical ease and fluidity
  • Improved self awareness
  • Ability to “be here now”
  • Greater energy and more stamina
  • Teamwork awareness
  • Deeper breathing
  • More psychological options
  • New philosophical model for living
  • It provides valuable “time out” (and can trigger brain chemicals) to improve mood
  • Better functioning of the internal organs