ChiLaMuaThuRoi
08-16-2005, 11:05 PM
Taste of Tai Chi
by Jessica Smith
http://www.medizine.com/COMMON/ArticleImages/artimg421.jpg
It may be the best way to improve strength, flexibility and balance
Tai chi, which originated about 2,000 years ago in China as a form of self-defense, is growing in popularity, especially in the West. Tai chi’s meditative and graceful motions unite the mind, body and spirit, resulting in improved physical and mental well-being. For all of us, including those with health issues such as diabetes, obesity and osteo-arthritis, tai chi offers several benefits:
Tai chi means “the supreme ultimate,” and it is based on the ancient Taoist philosophy of yin and yang. Yin represents the passive force, whereas yang represents the more aggressive force.
Tai chi strives to combine these opposing forces through soft, smooth, yet powerful movements. The goal is to cultivate “chi” (or the life energy) that, according to Chinese medicine, circulates throughout the body.
Although there are several different styles of tai chi, the fundamental principles of each of them are the same. Movements should be slow and controlled, without any abrupt changes in speed. The movement should be performed as if you were moving against a gentle resistance. At the same time, you should try to stay relaxed and calm. There are many series of tai chi postures and movements that can be performed alone or in sequence.
Improved circulation and stamina
Increased energy
Decreased stress
Improved functioning
Reduced risk of falls
Reduced blood pressure
Less joint pain
Improved flexibility and balance
Press & Rollback
Begin in posture A, keeping your weight forward on the left leg. Turn slowly to the right (B); as you reach the center, cross the hands at the wrists (C). Gradually transfer 70
percent of your weight onto the right leg. Reverse the sequence as you move back to the left, and repeat several times until you feel comfortable with the postures.
Repeat step 1, but as you transfer weight from the left to the right leg, bring together the right and left heels of the palms (D). When your weight has shifted, release the hands and finish with the right hand extended, palm up, and the left arm bent, palm down.
Jessica Smith has a master’s degree in bioengineering. She was a member of the 1990 NCAA championship gymnastics team. She holds certifications from the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America and the American College of Sports Medicine.
by Jessica Smith
http://www.medizine.com/COMMON/ArticleImages/artimg421.jpg
It may be the best way to improve strength, flexibility and balance
Tai chi, which originated about 2,000 years ago in China as a form of self-defense, is growing in popularity, especially in the West. Tai chi’s meditative and graceful motions unite the mind, body and spirit, resulting in improved physical and mental well-being. For all of us, including those with health issues such as diabetes, obesity and osteo-arthritis, tai chi offers several benefits:
Tai chi means “the supreme ultimate,” and it is based on the ancient Taoist philosophy of yin and yang. Yin represents the passive force, whereas yang represents the more aggressive force.
Tai chi strives to combine these opposing forces through soft, smooth, yet powerful movements. The goal is to cultivate “chi” (or the life energy) that, according to Chinese medicine, circulates throughout the body.
Although there are several different styles of tai chi, the fundamental principles of each of them are the same. Movements should be slow and controlled, without any abrupt changes in speed. The movement should be performed as if you were moving against a gentle resistance. At the same time, you should try to stay relaxed and calm. There are many series of tai chi postures and movements that can be performed alone or in sequence.
Improved circulation and stamina
Increased energy
Decreased stress
Improved functioning
Reduced risk of falls
Reduced blood pressure
Less joint pain
Improved flexibility and balance
Press & Rollback
Begin in posture A, keeping your weight forward on the left leg. Turn slowly to the right (B); as you reach the center, cross the hands at the wrists (C). Gradually transfer 70
percent of your weight onto the right leg. Reverse the sequence as you move back to the left, and repeat several times until you feel comfortable with the postures.
Repeat step 1, but as you transfer weight from the left to the right leg, bring together the right and left heels of the palms (D). When your weight has shifted, release the hands and finish with the right hand extended, palm up, and the left arm bent, palm down.
Jessica Smith has a master’s degree in bioengineering. She was a member of the 1990 NCAA championship gymnastics team. She holds certifications from the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America and the American College of Sports Medicine.