The 5 Most Important Reasons to Practice Tai Chi

It has been said and written that Tai Chi is a "way of life". Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese tradition that when practiced regularly, improves the quality of our life, restoring the natural flow of our life force, or internal energy or "chi".

Our unique “human being” design is structured as a physical, mental, emotional and spiritual body, all relating to each other as a whole. Consequently, our experiences, either positive or negative, have a profound impact on all our bodies. When our chi is blocked, it may manifest as a physical illness, mental stress, emotional trauma or spiritual disconnection.

The practice of Tai Chi considers and addresses all the aspects of our being. The essence of this profound discipline is to restore the wellness of our chi and direct it to flow evenly and harmoniously throughout our bodies. This is vital to the success of a healthy, balanced and joyful life. When we incorporate Tai Chi in our lives, our physical body gets stronger and our balance improves considerably. Our mind relaxes and becomes more alert and is able to concentrate easier. We experience a deep connection with our inner wisdom, opening the entrance to connect with the divinity of all creation.

There are more than enough reasons to practice Tai Chi. As a student and a teacher of this powerful "moving meditation”, I am listing 5 important reasons to incorporate Tai Chi in your life:

1. Gentle Exercise Alternative.
Tai Chi by nature is gentle and practiced in slow motion. You gradually strengthen your body and build up your life force. If you haven't exercised in a while, or have a physical challenge (arthritis, joint pain, balance issues, back injury, etc.) or are not aging gracefully, Tai Chi will introduce your body to the exercise it needs. Start now to prevent future physical issues or to improve your present condition.

2. Improves Your Mental Awareness.
As you practice slow movements, you become very alert and aware of your body, especially the parts you are exercising. You also bring your attention to your breathing, an essential element to restore your chi. During class, you learn and memorize a sequence of movements that in its totality, becomes the Tai Chi form. Your total concentration is required; therefore, your mind is stimulated and disciplined to be consciously active.

3. You Use Your Natural Resources.
No outside elements are required to successfully practice Tai Chi. You use your own innate tools such as your breath, intention and imagination. Your attention is constantly redirected to your breath, a vital element to restore a balanced chi. Your intention gives you the power to be present and active in healing any blocks of energy. Your imagination gives form to your intention by visualizing a healthy body, calm mind, balanced emotions and your free spirit.

4. Helps You Recognize the Power Within.
Most of the time you're engaged in a busy life and become disconnected from the peace and quiet within. The practice of Tai Chi allows you to reconnect with that deep place in you where you can experience an internal power. This power is the recognition of your vital force, the core of your being or your divine essence. As you learn to be one with your body, breath and mind, you will connect with a higher understanding of your true nature.

5. Most People Can Practice Tai Chi.
You don't need to be in excellent physical condition, have a bright memory, or have any spiritual practice. All you need is the desire to improve the quality of your life. Tai Chi is safe, fun and easy to learn for all ages. The sooner you begin your practice, the faster you will experience its benefits. As I mentioned earlier, start now to prevent future challenges in your life or to improve your present condition. You deserve an optimum quality of life!

A word of caution: Not all exercises are suitable for everyone. This or any other exercise program may result in injury. To reduce the risk of injury, never force or strain. Consult your physician before starting this or any other exercise program.