Tai chi is a noncompetitive martial art known for its health benefits. It combines gentle physical exercise and stretching with mindfulness.
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Balance control, fitness, and flexibility. The activity may also reduce the risk of falls in older people.
Tai chi also appears to reduce pain and the symptoms of depression
This martial art is an ancient tradition that has evolved over centuries. Some people use tai chi to help alleviate stress and anxiety. Others claim it promotes serenity and inner peace.
People generally regard it as safe for individuals of all ages as it does not put too much stress on the muscles and joints.
Benefits
Various research suggests tai chi offers a range of benefits for people with and without chronic conditions. These benefits include:
Improved Balance
Pain Management
Brain Function
Improved sleep trusted source
Quality
Enchanced immune system
Types
There are five different styles of tai chi, dating from different periods in history. Each has a unique set of methods and principles, lineage, and date of origin.
They are:
Chen style, which began sometime between 1528 and 1587
Yang style, which began sometime between 1799 and 1872
Wu or Wu Hao style, which began sometime between 1812 and 1880
Wu style, which began sometime between 1870 and 1942
Sun style, which began sometime between 1861 and 1932
Some of these forms of tai chi lean towards health, while others stress competition or self-defense.
People considering a tai chi course should speak to an experienced instructor about which style they practice and whether it will offer the expected benefits.