Tai Chi Chuan The Traditional Chinese Medicine had not only left the world with a legacy

of traditional medicinal means; but rather, it had shared with the world many of its set of physical exercises that not only caters on the health needs of the body, but which also addresses the psychological and spiritual wellness of the individual. Most of these physical activities come in the form of martial arts; and simply mentioning the activity draws out a number of sports in mind, which are of Chinese origin. Among the long list of these physical activities is the Tai Chi Chuan or more commonly known as the Tai Chi. Tai Chi has been practiced for many years and in many other places. The introduction of this particular form of martial arts has paved a way for alternative martial arts which can be performed in even by person of advanced ages. Unlike the other martial arts discipline, the Tai Chi does not employ abrupt and intense movements. Tai Chi is composed or gentle and slow series of movements. Although the exercise is more often performed by persons of advanced age, but Tai Chi actually intends to promote wellness to persons of every age. Though its movements are presented in the seemingly weak manner, the activity nonetheless promotes flexibility, endurance and strength; of which persons of any age can benefit from. Tai Chi is said to be one of the most potent martial arts, and when perfected, can be a great life-saving asset for an individual. Much like any other Chinese martial arts, the Tai Chi intends to promote wellness not just within the body, but also in ones mind and spirit. Tai Chi is said to be a good exercise for longevity. Tai Chi recognizes the presence of the Yin and Yang in each body; thus the exercises address the need to harmonize these two elements. The Word Tai Chi Chuan literally stands for the Supreme ultimate first. It is made up of different sets of movements; the most commonly practiced being the 64 movement Yang short form. The other movements are represented by numbers as well, which is said to be important in the Taoist lexicon. Counting the movements in the exercises though will eventually justify the numbers in which the movements are labelled with. Chen and Yang are among the most frequently practiced Tai Chi styles, the Chen being the more combative style, and many others which range from esoteric to the easiest forms. It may take years of practice before one gets to master the more complicated Tai Chi forms, making it a reason why many early Chinese devoted their time to mastering the art. Aspects of Tai Chi Chuan Tai Chi has three aspects which it intends to enrich and nourish throughout the exercise of Tai Chi. These aspects are benefitted equally as much as the wellness of each contributes to the overall wellness of an individual.

Health. Tai Chi is nevertheless a physical exercise. Practicing Tai Chi should primarily promote ones good health. This is due to the fact that the movements require the participation of all the muscle groups in the human body; not to forget that Tai Chi is a form of martial arts. Tai Chi requires physical training, which eventually lead to ones fitness and good health. Meditation. Tai Chi intends to focus on meditation as well. This meditation is done through the concentration and focus that is both required to effectively practice Tai Chi. With its slow and coordinated movements, Tai Chi solicits for an utmost mental presence throughout the exercise. Tai Chi movements are slow and fluid too, making it more conducive for a meditation regimen. Martial Art. Tai Chi is a martial art, among others. It is a set of exercises that equip one with self-defence skills that may be useful in particular instances. The Tai Chi is made up of responsive physical activities that teach its participants to effectively repel external harmful forces and attacks. Health Benefits of Tai Chi Chuan Tai Chi has several health benefits, from various standpoints. It is beneficial as it promotes physiological health, psychological wellness and spiritual nourishment. The physiological health benefit of Tai Chi comes from the fact that it is nonetheless a physical exercise. Apart from this, the Tai Chi has movements that intend to harmonize the flow of the Yin and Yang in ones body. At some point, the Tai Chi has similarities with Yoga; increasing the flow of water in the body. Increase in blood flow and heart rate is among the expected result in the practice of Tai Chi. Psychological benefits are said to be had in practicing Tai Chi. This martial art is said to promote mindfulness. With its slow and focused movements, one is aware of his breathing patterns and bodily coordination. Through this mindfulness, the persons mind is emptied out of the negative energies and is replaced with the qi or energy. Tai Chi alleviates anxiety and depression, leaving it in a more positive psychological state. Scientific research and studies have proven this claim as well. Studies have shown that participants in the Tai Chi manifested a better mood immediately after the exercise. Finally, the Tai Chi intends to promote Spiritual enrichment and nourishment as well. With the exercises recognizing the presence of the Yin and Yang, it intends to harmonize the presence of this two within the human body, addressing to the spiritual oneness of the same. The Tai Chi recognizes the need to be one with the environment and in the universe, promoting a free flow of energies within and without. With Tai Chi exercised seriously, it can bring about contentment, peace, and joy.