When most people think of exercise, they think of strenuous activity. Sweating it out at the gym while trying to figure out the weight machines or pounding the pavement outside isn’t the only way to exercise, though. Some exercise can be relaxing and Tai Chi is one of those. Tai Chi is not only an exercise for the body, but only for the mind. There are benefits of Tai Chi most other exercises won’t give you.
How Did Tai Chi Originate?
This ancient form of exercise has been practiced for many years and is a wonderful way to relieve stress and revitalize the body. It was originally created as a form of self defense, but don’t let that scare you away.
You won’t have to do any advanced moves or roundhouse kicks with this fitness routine and that’s for sure one of the benefits of Tai Chi if you’re not in great shape.
One great thing about Tai Chi is that it can be done by anybody. It is a low impact exercise making it accessible to even people with injuries, who are out of shape, or who are elderly. It is very popular at senior centers for that reason.
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What You Need to Do Tai Chi
Tai Chi is a relaxing, slow exercise that matches body movement to breathing. It requires no private lessons, expensive gym membership or fancy equipment – all benefits of Tai Chi. All you need to begin Tai Chi is your body and a willingness to learn. It can be done inside or outside as well so that makes it great for those with a small amount of space or people who travel a lot and need an exercise that can be done anywhere.
There are many ways to begin practicing this martial art so you can fully enjoy the benefits of Tai Chi. In the technological age there are plenty of videos and guides online for learning this activity. There are even a few apps for it! If you aren’t willing to learn online, many activity c
enters and yoga studios have Tai Chi classes so you can get a feel for the exercise and benefit from an instructor’s guidance before venturing out on your own.
Don’t let the slow pace and gentle movement of Tai Chi turn you off. It is a great activity to do for any person. For those of us who want to something to help calm down after a busy day but don’t do well sitting still for long periods of time, it can be used as a kind of moving meditation, an alternative to yoga if you will.
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Benefits of Tai Chi – So Calming and Revitalizing
If you have tried sitting down and clearing your mind, but can’t get it to quiet then Tai Chi can help. Matching your breath to your movement gives you something to focus on. It also makes it easier to let go of any stressful thoughts. You will be able to feel some of the benefits of Tai Chi as soon as you begin to practice.
This practice also floods your body with oxygen so that you are refreshed and ready to take on the day’s next curve ball. Being prepared for whatever comes your way is valuable and doing a few minutes of Tai Chi is a simple price to pay for that.