Tai Chi is known as the ‘supreme ultimate of the martial arts and is of ancient Chinese origin. Traditionally, we are taught, we become older, wiser and stronger through the study and practice of Tai Chi.

Today Tai Chi is taught for its numerous health benefits. It differs from other movement forms as it works from the inside out, with the focus on postural alignment, and mental relaxation. Participants are taught to function with mind and body moving as an integrated whole. Tai Chi is often likened to a ‘moving meditation’ because when mind and body are relaxed, we move with seemingly effortlessness and grace through movements that are performed slowly with intention, focus and concentration.

Philosophically, the concept of Tai Chi is cyclical and mirrors the cycles of nature, the shape of the earth, Yin and Yang, the subtle balance between opposites. It is one of the fastest growing and most popular martial arts worldwide. There are six styles, the three most popular being Chen, Yang and Wu. In South Africa we have masters from several lineages. The meditative aspect Of Tai Chi brings greater awareness and mental clarity as it functions across many levels, the physical, mental, emotional and ultimately spiritual.

One doesn’t sweat in Tai Chi as it’s a low impact system where energy is used efficiently. By aligning the posture, stress on the body is minimized and joints are strengthened, as is the cardiovascular system as breathing deepens and more oxygen becomes available, enhancing circulation and cellular function, while the mind and emotions are calmed, helping us cope with life’s challenges.

The slow, flowing movements of Tai Chi, especially the turning of the waist and limbs, continuously massage and strengthen the internal organs. Releasing tension in the various muscle groups enables muscles to stretch, lengthen and become more flexible. It is unique to Tai Chi that not only the large muscles are stretched, but also hundreds of smaller muscles, relieving back, neck and shoulder pain.

One of the major effects of Tai Chi is the regulation of all bodily fluids - blood, lymph, synovial fluid (between the joints), cerebrospinal fluid (within the spinal column) and interstitial fluid (between the cells). The intrinsic energy (or qi) permeates right into the joints so blood, oxygen and fluids flow where needed.

Because Tai Chi is slow and flowing, people of any age can do it. I teach students right into their 80’s who find that their overall health and mental concentration improves. They are an absolute inspiration to me. It’s a privilege to see them becoming able to hold postures, stand on one leg with balance and poise, and many report an easing of aches and pains related to arthritis, fibromyalgia and injuries to the spine, knees, hips and other joints.

Regular practice of Tai Chi enhances vitality and a sense of wellbeing. Balance and flexibility improve while blood pressure, heart rate, respiration, hormonal fluctuations and digestion settle. Sleep improves, headaches go away and depression and anxiety ease. With continued practice, memory improves as does the functioning of the immune system.

All these benefits mean that Tai Chi is highly recommended for people with arthritis but be sure that the teacher has proficient knowledge and certification and that you feel comfortable with him or her. What you invest in learning, you gain tenfold in better health, but it will take discipline, patience and persistence.