WELLNESS & LONGEVITY MOVEMENT

Many programs are offered through books, E-books, videos, DVDs, workshops, etc. on Tai chi but there is no comparison to learning from a real master over time. Much is lost when attempting to learn from these methods. This education usually benefits the experienced practitioner who knows the nuances and can fill in the connective steps. However, if used in conjunction with a good martial arts teacher, then training is usually enhanced.Also, when taught in the ancient, disciplined and correct way, physical injuries are avoided. I humbly encourage all to find out why and how to practice this art in order to truely receive life-sustaining benefits.

“From experience, I have learned that it is better to learn a few moves well rather than many superficially. The essence of tai chi can be found in just one move.”

TAI CHI CHUAN  

Pure Natural Energy & Healing From Within

Over time Tai Chi takes root and imbues youthfulness where once the hardness of aging withered all chances for longevity. The ancient art of tai chi softens the sinews as concentration on the “chi” rejuvenates the body, mind and spirit.

Dating back to the 14th century, Yang Style Tai Chi seeks health in moderation. Health and balance is achieved by forming body movements that are not extreme but gentle and cleansing. Yang style tai chi developed from Chen style tai chi which began in the 13th century. Wu, Hao and Sun style tai chi followed adding their valuable contributions to the internal martial arts in 1800s. These are the five main families where tai chi was cultivated.

“Life exists because qi is amassed, when qi is dispersed, one dies.” — Zhuang Zi, ancient Chinese philosopher

TAI CHI HEALTH BENEFITS 

Tai Chi is an exercise program that uses a sequence of precise body movements, meditation, and synchronized breathing to improve health and well-being. Tai chi movements are designed to express the yin and yang components that are fundamental to Chinese medicine in a balanced and harmonious form. Like most moderate physical activities, tai chi can improve:

• stamina
• muscle tone
• agility
• flexibility
• strength
• pain alleviation

The practice of breathing exercises may serve a meditative function to reduce stress.

Clinical studies show that tai chi is effective for:

• slowing bone loss in early postmenopausal women
• improved physical functioning in older women with osteoarthritis
• increases the range of motion in the lower limbs in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
• improves aerobic capacity in sedentary adults
• reduced hypertension and lipid profile in hypertensive individuals
• improved sleep in elderly individuals
• significant improvement in symptom management and quality of life for patients suffering from chronic heart failure, fibromyalgia and breast cancer

 The adept practitioner learns to receive the energy or “chi” from below, above and beside him or her. This occurance is complimentary, promoting well being and longevity. While the enterpretation of this phenomena is varied, nevertheless, the experience is greatly welcomed.    Sifu Mark Hammer