Moving the body does not have to be rigorous to be helpful. Tai chi is a gentle, mind-body practice that uses breath and movement to stimulate the body and promote well-being. Muscles are engaged during the movement, lengthening them, while moving the body in a slow, deliberate way. Breathing is timed with the movements to stimulate, calm and regulate the body.
Tai chi has been practiced for centuries. You may have seen tai chi being practiced in a local park where people are moving in rhythm together. Tai chi comes from a martial arts tradition, and the movement is associated with the meridian system of acupuncture. While moving through the postures of tai chi, you are stimulating and regulating the energy in the meridians.
Join Tai Chi Instructor Cynthia Frusha from the Central Arkansas VA in this 10-minute Tai Chi session. The video begins with a nice warm up of movement and stretching followed by a break-down of different tai chi forms so that you can follow along to learn the movement while watching.
Tai chi may be practiced in groups or alone. Once you learn the movements, they can be performed at home without instruction. Single movements might be performed throughout your day to provide a break from sitting. Tai chi can help you to start your day or wind down before bed.
Visit the Whole Health Moving the Body page for more information and tips!
