Developed hundreds of years ago by the Taoist monks of China, Tai Chi is a series of basic movements that can keep one youthful and rejuvenate the entire body. Because Tai Chi is an exercise that is performed in a slow, easy manner, and is not strenuous on the heart, it can be practiced by anyone, young or old. Just 20 minutes a day of consistent practice can improve health and increase vitality.

The Tai-Chi short form I teach has 24 basic movements that involve the use of every part of the body. The pattern of flowing movement, involving hands, elbows, fists, legs, shoulders, head, buttocks, feet, toes, eyes, etc., are all brought into it. There is no risk; practicing Tai-Chi promises only renewed vitality and, according to research, a longer life.

In China, where there is great respect for the practice of Tai Chi, it is claimed that it has lowered high blood pressure, and alleviated joint diseases. Tai Chi, because it does not strain the heart, is believed to be very beneficial to cardiac patients. And Tai Chi is not only valuable physiologically, but psychologically as well. That’s because Tai Chi is designed to have a calming effect on the mind and nervous system. It is an exercise that encompasses both mind and body.

The movements of Tai Chi encourage relaxation. So, to do the exercises properly, the body must move as a unit, and over a long period of time, this helps a person attain a psychological shield to combat stress, which is one of the main causes of disease.