Mumbo Jumbo Spring 2014 | Page 13

Tai Chi

Tai Chi has been referred to as a moving meditation or meditation in motion. Through a series of very slow, controlled movements and deep breaths, practitioners of Tai Chi strive to optimize and balance their life force energy, or chi (spelled qi in the East).

The practice of Tai Chi began in China more than 500 years ago as a martial art. Today it's most commonly a a fitness technique.

Tai Chi has undergone even

less scientific scrutiny than

yoga; however, according to

NCCAM, scientific research is

being conducted, mostly on

elderly populations.

Early indications are that Tai

Chi improves muscle strength,

flexibility, balance and cardiovascular health, but no scientific studies have examined if the ancient art assists with improving mindfulness and alleviating stress and anxiety. Even so, we include it here because the very nature of the practice calls for participants to slow down and focus on their breath and body.

Here’s a video that introduces you to eight basic Tai Chi movements. Enjoy!

Hey, we don't know what kind of physical shape you're in, but your doctor does, so be sure to ask your M.D. before you begin any exercise program.

He looks like he’s vying for a gold medal at a collegiate Twister competition. (Yes, they have such things.)

If that’s your concern, please let us ease your mind. There are more than 100 types of yoga with varying degrees of physical rigor required. The Omega Institute provides a descriptive synopsis of more than 30 styles. There's probably one that fits your level of physical fitness and self-confidence.

The most popular in western culture is Hatha yoga – a form that’s chiefly comprised of relatively easier postures done in concert with breath work.

Just remember, if you want the full mindfulness training benefit, pick a class that offers poses, breathing and meditation.

To give you a taste for how pleasant yoga can be, even for the less limber among us, take a look at the video at the bottom of the left page. It’s called the Sun Salutation, and it’s one of our favorite series of movements for beginners.

Still Sound Like Mumbo Jumbo?

Yoga Fact Sheet, NCCAM

Tai Chi Fact Sheet, NCCAM

Health Benefits of Tai Chi, Harvard Health Publications