T'ai Chi combines graceful postures with ancient Taoist breathing exercises that are designed to stimulate chi. With regular practice it can relieve stress, improve metabolism and strengthen the immune system.

Learning t'ai-chi can be a most enjoyable and rewarding experience. T'ai-chi is probably the most effective exercise for a holistic approach to health. It will improve your health and fitness, and help you to relax.

"It seeks stillness in movement and is a dynamic art form of continuous, circular, flowing and ever changing movements rather like water. Tai Chi Chuan is a series of patterns or postures which make the whole body work using at the same time strength and gentleness. Like floating clouds and flowing water, following the same principles and philosophies Ying- Yang.

If properly executed, Tai Chi Chuan is a high form of Chigong (qigong) and therefore an excellent all round health promoting activity.

Tai Chi is not an "esoteric" practise or a philosophy of life. It must be practised by those who enjoy physical exercises and are looking for an alternative to western methods. The benefits come from persistent training and consistency.

Contrary to what many people think, Tai chi is an excellent exercise for keeping in shape and strengthening the muscles, as well as preventing arthritis ,heart conditions, circulation and back problems.

It helps with posture and back problems, strengthens the functioning of internal organs and prevents repetitive strain syndrome.

Various psychological benefits can be observed: Tai Chi Chuan helps combat stress related illnesses such as depression, anxiety and insomnia. It promotes better concentration and tranquillity. The awareness of movement and breathing stimulates at the same time body and energy for a balanced healthy life."

Daily practice of t'ai chi promotes mental clarity and a healthy body, assists with balance and helps the circulation of the blood. Tai Chi is also a vehicle for the realization of surpassing beauty. "T'ai chi ch'uan is the classic Chinese method of calisthenics for health, self-defense and spiritual growth.

Graceful in movement, slow in tempo, relaxed yet dynamic in beautiful natural postures, t'ai chi is a "moving meditation" that rejuvenates body, mind and spirit. The most immediate health benefits of t'ai chi practice are improved posture, flexibility, balance, circulation, metabolism, and neuro-muscular function, and a strengthened immune system.

Regular t'ai chi practice develops robust physical strength, emotional calm and serenity, mental clarity and latent powers. Thus the Chinese say that those who practice t'ai chi ch'uan will attain the pliability of a child, the vitality of a lumberjack, and the wisdom of a sage."

~~ Terry Dunn


These are great videos of the Yang Style Short Form. Each one is different.

Learn the Long Form from these 2 teachers.

Visit these other lenses to get a broader understanding of T'ai Chi.