Rising Phoenix - Tai Chi
When: Every Friday - 10.00am - 11.00am
Where: Capel Farm Community Resource Centre
Cost: £4.00
What is Tai Chi?
Many people in the west have seen Tai Chi on television, during films or documentaries about China or Hong Kong; however they may not have recognised it. Tai Chi is a system of meditation in movement, practised for health and vitality, for relaxation and awareness, natural balance and self defence. It is usually practised as though in slow motion - the gentle flowing and continuous movements bringing harmony to the body and mind. The system is suitable for men and women of all ages. It is non-competative, teaching us to realise our limitations and not to use force.
The Origins.
There are many stories concerning the origins of Tai Chi. The most common accepted one is as follows;
In the 13th Century a Taoist hermit, Chang san Feng from Wu Tang Mountain was disturbed during his meditation by a fight between a snake and a crane. The snake was evading the cranes sharp beak by swaying its body this way and that, so that by yielding to the beak and the crushing wings of the bird, no force could be applied against it. Through contemplation of this simple episode, Chang realised that the soft, weak and yielding (Yin) actions of the snake overcame the strength and direct force (Yang) of the bird, which became tired through effort and force and finally gave up the struggle. By remaining relaxed the snake could read the movements of the bird and so move naturally to what was coming. In terms of meditation, this means trying to find out what makes us separate from other beings; what takes us away from harmony so that we have to use force in trying to overcome the obstacles in our path. Having understood this Chang then incorportated his realisation into a set of movements based on the martial arts. It was this synthesis of the martial arts and meditation, movement and relaxation for mind, body and spirit which has made Tai Chi one of the most practiced forms of exercise in the world.
The Benefits.
By increasing the bodies energy flow, regular practice of Tai Chi Chuan can ward off sickness and disease. In China it is well known for its healing powers and is often prescribed by doctors in conjunction with other treatments, or when other methods fail. The continuous movements of form, relaxes and loosens the muscles and joints, which can help alleviate of prevent illness such as arthritis. It stimulates blood circulation, helping control blood pressure, builds stability in the legs and teaches balance. The practice strengthens the spine and lower back. The soft turning and bending massages the internal organs. As Tai Chi helps focus the mind, calm the emotions and relax the body, it is beneficial to both mental and physical wellbeing. Tai Chi practiced every day puts us in touch with our inner strength, giving a quality of deep beauty and meaning to life.
Tutor: Roger Mitchell.
