Tai Chi an exercise teaching stability, flexibility, and relaxation. It is also soft martial art that focuses on internal development of energy, called chi. Sets of movements in sequence are practiced in a gentle manner. The internal focus, where one relaxes, slows the mind, and concentrates the breath, makes this a meditation in motion. By releasing tension and letting go of thoughts, we can retrain our bodies to let go of conditioned habits. The yin yang is the representative symbol of the art, and it represents a balance between two repulsing forces. In a situation where two equal forces exert pressure there can be no motion until one side yields. Tai chi teaches us to avoid direct force and instead redirect, and only exert pressure when one has a mechanical advantage.

The daily practices of Tai Chi involve movement through a sequence of postures, standing meditation to raise qi, and movement of the qi through the body with qigong.  Tai chi's health training concentrates on preservation through correct alignment, which relieves stress on the body and mind; good posture, which can relieve joint pain by allowing weight to transfer properly; and aerobic exercise, which develops flexibility, strength, stamina, balance, and coordination. Numerous studies have found health benefits associated with Tai Chi and the softness makes the art especially accessible to differently abled bodies and elders.

 

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