What is Tai Chi (taiji)?
Originally developed by monks in China for self-defense, Tai Chi has evolved into a graceful form of exercise used worldwide for stress relief, balance, strength, coordination, and cognitive development. It is often described as moving meditation or shadow boxing because it promotes a sense of calm and serenity through gentle, fluid movements. Tai Chi movements are performed slowly and with concentration (attention). Breathing is deep and relaxed.
Tai Chi is a non-competitive exercise that incorporates gentle stretching and twisting movements to massage the internal organs. Each posture flows seamlessly into the next, keeping the body in constant motion.
Tai Chi, like a deep river, has a calm flow and a power that comes from below.
The Meaning of Tai Chi
The literal meaning of Tai Chi is: Essential, Ultimate, Most Fundamental, Main Source or Supreme Absolute. The concept of Tai Chi comes from the universe theory of Chinese teachings. First there is wu-chi (無極 -vuji - Wu = Nothingness, Void, Zero; Chi = Energy), that is, nothingness, a state without polarity, motionlessness, absence of nothingness, limitless, the ultimate point of existence. Polarization and motion emerge as Yin and Yang. This first polarization and first motion is called Tai Chi.
Tai Chi (also spelled Taiji or altogether Tai Chi Chuan -Taijiquan 太極拳) is perhaps the most effective way to a healthy body and mind.
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