More than exercise | ||
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Mind, body,
spirit
Tai chi is quite different from
sport and conventional exercise.
There is no competition, no
stress, no ego, no aggression and absolutely no pressure at all.
The body is exercised in a careful, gentle, relaxed manner. Natural, healthy,
comfortable movement is encouraged, with an awareness of what is taking place at
all times.
Health is defined
as a state of complete physical, mental, social, and spiritual wellbeing,
and not merely the absence of disease and infirmity.
(World Health
Organisation)
Motor learning
For many people, their fitness regime does not take into account 'motor
learning'. Motor learning is about the process of using the body, rather than
simply exercising the body.
Agility, mobility, relaxed spontaneous movement, balance, structure, alignment,
biomechanics, efficiency, ambidextrous body use, joint health, coordination,
skill, emotional wellbeing or psychological flexibility.
Tai chi combines exercise with motor learning.
Quiet mind
With the body relaxed and the energy conserved, your mind should become quiet.
Absorbed in the movements, you lose your sense of self. Everyday concerns,
considerations and anxieties fade away.
Stimulating
Students encounter new ideas and new skills every lesson. There is the joy of
discovery; of finding out for yourself what works and why.
Refinement of character
In traditional Chinese culture, tai chi was seen as a means for refining
character. It enabled the individual to balance all aspects of their being.
The challenge of exploring tai chi removes conflict, macho urges and aggression.
A student moves in a graceful, balanced, harmonious way and maintains composure
at all times.
They engage in combat without losing their temper or being afraid.
Wisdom
Tai chi wisdom is all about finding balance and ease in everyday life. Rather
than live in conflict and fear, seek tranquillity.
The study of tai chi is a commitment
to being present, the very opposite of tuned-out, addictive behaviour. It
becomes increasingly difficult to lie to oneself or escape reality if one is
practicing sensitivity and balance. Additionally, there are specific qualities
of the discipline of tai chi conducive to
learning how to face life rather than
run away from it.
(Wolfe Lowenthal)
Spiritual component
Tai chi practice possesses a spiritual component. This may be enhanced through
Taoism and Zen, along with meditating, qigong, form and application.
An earnest student of tai chi becomes calmer, more harmonious. They have a sense
of deep connection with all things. People seek to move in accord with events,
rather than against.
Youthfulness
Tai chi is an ideal way to regain the vigour of youth. Your body moves in a
swift, sure, powerful manner. You feel younger and you look younger.
Suppleness and strength are achieved without pain or discomfort.
Business
Conflict can take many forms, and most modern battles take place quietly and
politically.
Business gurus around the world have studied The Art of War, 36 Strategies
and The Book of Five Rings for
their strategic insights.
These famous books demonstrate how martial arts thinking can be very effective
in the business world.
Everyday life
We are faced with situations every day that require cunning, clear thinking and
a cool head. Typically, there is no threat of violence, yet there may be some
disagreement taking place.
It is necessary to be intelligent, resourceful and decisive. A martial artist
has a keen, disciplined mind, settled emotions and the ability to see options,
alternatives and possibilities.
They are not afraid to act when the opportunity presents itself.
Social support
Students in a tai chi school are encouraged to interact with one another in
a healthy, friendly manner, free from the competitive norms found in wider
society.
There is a supportive atmosphere of trust and care. The training hall is
safe place to be. People come to
relax, to learn, to have a good night.
Perfection?
Most tai chi students attend our classes in order to
relax, acquire martial skills and have a good time.
They enjoy the friendly atmosphere and lack of pressure.
It doesn't matter whether or not you are good at tai chi; just have fun.
Tai chi is a journey with no goals and no end.
(John Lash)
Page created 9 May 1994
Last updated
16 June 2023