T’ai Chi

T’ai Chi Ch’uan is an internal martial art renowned for its healing benefits. Practice consists of slow circular movements of the hands and arms while stepping through a preset sequence of moves, with precise but relaxed placement of the four limbs throughout the form. When done correctly, it also qualifies as Qi gong and meditation practice. Some of the tangible benefits confirmed by studies in the last decade have shown that T’ai Chi Chuan practice boosts the immune system, improves strength, balance, flexibility and circulation, and increases bone density. Additionally, as a martial art, the techniques have practical applications, though one need not focus on these to reap the health benefits.