Tai Chi

Tai Chi is an exercise of the body, the mind and the spirit. It is performed very slowly, as if the practitioner were moving through very thick air. In learning tai chi, one studies a series of movements, practiced slowly. Moving slowly allows one to breathe deeply and permits one's mind to focus within, creating a calm, tranquil, and profoundly centered self.

This series of movements, or postures, function as the medium through which one attends to learning and practicing the principles of Tai Chi. These principles are the real essence of Tai Chi. They are concepts of mind and body that are the depth of Tai Chi as well as the depths of life. Concepts such as proper body alignment, relaxation, vitality, naturalness, fluidity, rootedness and balance, mindfulness, raising the spirit, and stillness within movement are the fundamental principles.

Regular tai chi practice enhances health by activating the mind, by calming the nervous system, and by keeping the joints flexible, the muscles toned and the internal organs invigorated. Tai Chi can be learned and practiced by people of all ages and physical conditions. Done correctly, Tai Chi enlivens and refines the human organism by stimulating and mobilizing the chi, or life force, which courses through the body. The activation of chi is complemented and balanced by the flowing, calm and soothing movements. This harmonization of energies is unique to tai chi. Through its action, Tai Chi improves the health of body, mind and spirit.