Martial arts often conjure images of people kicking, punching, and fighting. For a completely different style Tai Chi Toronto can introduce you to a martial art that offers relaxation, inner calm, and peace in a meditative and slow method. The Chinese art of tai chi has been documented to be 2,500 years old and is an offshoot of Qigong. It can be used as a form of self-defense with the movements neutralizing the attacker by using inner energy.

Traditional Chinese medicine teaches that the human body is a small version of the universe that interacts with the five elements of wood, water, earth, fire, and metal. Energy runs through the body via meridians, this energy is referred to to Qi. A healthy body has perfectly balanced qi with smooth flow.

Tai chi evolved from the ancient martial art of Qigong. This martial art incorporates movement, the mind, and breath to create balance in the flow of energy which in turn can be used for work, recreation, or self-defense. There are more than 2,000 forms that have evolved and five main traditions which are Buddhist, Taoist, Confucian, martial arts, and medical with soft and hard types. Soft qigong, or inner qigong, is what tai chi is.

There are three popular styles of tai chi: yang, tai chi chih, and wu. Yang is the most difficult of the three, it has 24 simple movements and 100 traditional movements. The stance is wide with the knees bent. Tai chi chih has a high stance, 20 movements, and minimal weight transfer. Wu has 24 to 36 short form movements and 100 traditional movements with a narrow stance and slightly bent knees.

Some of the benefits are, as is believed in China, are prolonged life and delayed aging. It increases flexibility, strengthens tendons and muscles, and aids the the treatment of cancer, depression, skin diseases, digestive disorders, arthritis, high blood pressure, and heart disease, but this has not been scientifically proven. A special study of tai chi has shown that there is some evidence that supports the positive effects on balance and falling, fitness, and health.

Some studies show that an hour a week can be beneficial, but there is not enough scientific research to show how much tai chi should be done to reap benefits. Most people who practice this art like to do so two or three times a week. To become proficient, one should dedicate themselves to the practice for at least a year.

It is best to wear clothing that is comfortable, loose, and simple. One is not required to wear a specific uniform as is true with some other forms of martial arts, one can simply wear what is already in the closet such as sweats, a t-shirt, tights, or leotards. What is important is that one doesn't wear too much clothing and that movement is free while keeping cool and comfortable.

Try this unique and ancient form of martial arts to achieve relaxation and provide many beneficial health benefits as well. To improve flexibility, well-being, muscular strength, and aerobic capacity contact Tai Chi Toronto.