Health
It was around the beginning of the industrial revolution
that the idea that human beings were like machines came into being. The body was
seen as being like a clockwork toy, capable of being taken apart, parts replaced
and then put back together again. Although this perspective has produced
powerful life saving procedures, this view also limits our awareness of the
wonders of the human body and life itself.
(Liz Koch)
Natural approach
In modern times there is a great dependency upon Western medicine.
People seek to solve health problems quickly using medication or surgery.
These methods may fix the immediate problem but the underlying cause is seldom
addressed.
Eating habits and poor body usage are often the cause of poor health.
The holistic approach is to work with the natural processes of the body, to
improve body awareness, to learn new habits and steadily grow a healthier, more
resilient body.
Tai chi is good for your health
Tai chi is characterised by a gentle internal coiling and twisting of the body.
The soft, relaxed movements help to reduce bodily tension, whilst the martial
art focus gives purpose and intent to the practice.
This is an ideal form of exercise for people who suffer from illness or simply
want to improve their health.
Stronger muscles and bones, combined with greater flexibility of the joints,
will improve body usage beyond the class.
Health benefits
Standing and moving qigong exercise addresses the stability of the physical
structure and promotes the flow of qi.
The syllabus places great attention on the way in which the body operates.
This significantly improves the health benefits.
Since tai chi is performed slowly, there is little risk of injury or discomfort
when practicing this type of exercise.
A healthy brain
Our syllabus challenges the brain in a wide variety of ways: promoting
neuroplasticity.
Students are required to develop their memories, biomechanical sensitivity,
spatial awareness and coordination.
There is a study component to the class which enables the individual to reflect,
contemplate... and gain a deeper understanding.
Common health problems
Students frequently come to class with backache and tight shoulders, or they
simply cannot relax.
Our training releases the muscles, calms the nerves and dissipates tension.
Tai chi can also help with:
Arthritis
Asthma
Balance
Blood pressure
Breathing
Bronchitis (COPD)
Circulation
Coordination
Depression
Diabetes
Fibromyalgia
Heart problems
Hypermobility syndrome
Immune system
Impotence
Irritable bowel syndrome
Joint mobility
M. E. (Chronic fatigue syndrome)
Migraine
Pregnancy
Sciatica
Sleep
Stress
Varicose veins
Weight-loss
Beyond the medical
It is easy to think of tai chi study in terms of how it improves your health,
but tai chi is far more than treatment.
Exponents typically find that the benefits of the study extend to all aspects of
their lives.
People look at things differently. They change how they live. Priorities change.
A balanced life
The system is designed to re-balance both mind and body, allowing them to move
as one.
As a person becomes more balanced, their health naturally improves.
Balance is fundamental to tai chi.
To live a balanced life, all aspects of your
existence must work together.
Food, drink, sleep, sex, work and your relationship with the world around you
are all equally significant.
Without awareness, life can become hurried and stressful.
The emphasis in tai chi is upon enjoying yourself and
being happy with who you are and how you are living your life.
Be sensible
We ask that you disclose any medical problems before starting
tai chi lessons so the practice can be tailored to
suit your requirement and reduce the risk of discomfort or
injury.
Should you have a condition that you think may affect your ability to perform
tai chi, please consult a doctor.
Your tai chi instructor is not a medical practitioner.
Page created 2 March 1995