MICHIGAN TAI CHI CENTER

For the Pursuit of Excellence in the Practice of Tai Chi Chuan

TAI CHI FOR EVERYONE

TAI CHI CHUAN OVERVIEW


What is Tai Chi? What are its benefits?

Tai Chi is a martial art form that enhances balance and body awareness through slow, graceful and precise body movements, and relaxes and strengthens both body and mind. It has a long history in China and millions worldwide practice this art today as a form of preventive medicine and health maintenance exercise.

The unique health benefits of Tai Chi stem from the fact that it is a complete and integrated exercise, one which works all of the body’s systems deeply yet gently. Tai Chi practice provides these benefits: 

  • Increases stamina and energy
  • Increases flexibility by gently stretching and relaxing muscles, joints, tendons, and ligaments
  • Exercises the spine, giving it strength, elasticity and alignment
  • Improves the functioning of other body systems by increasing the circulation of blood and oxygen
  • Relieves stress and tension

Tai Chi is an exercise suitable for persons of all ages and conditions of health. 

As with any physical exercise, consult your doctor before you start a new program.


5 Major Styles of Tai Chi

There are 5 major styles of Tai Chi:   Chen – Yang – Wu Hao – Wu – Sun

CHEN STYLE TAI CHI is the oldest style of Tai Chi Chuan. Created by Chen Wang Ting in the 16th century, the movements are slow and fast, twining and twisting, connected with internal spiral energy.

YANG STYLE TAI CHI CHUAN is the most widely practiced style in the world. Created by Yang Luchan (1799-1872), it was developed from the Chen style.  The movements are slow and gentle, open and expanded, the pace is even, strength showing from within. 
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