What Is Tai Chi

A longtime teacher and Harvard researcher presents the latest science on the benefits of T’ai Chi as well as a practical daily program for practitioners of all ages Conventional medical science on the Chinese art of T’ai Chi now shows what T’ai Chi masters have known for centuries: regular practice leads to more vigor and flexibility, better balance and mobility, and a sense of well-being. Cutting-edge research from Harvard Medical School also supports the long-standing claims that T’ai Chi also has a beneficial impact on the health of the heart, bones, nerves and muscles, immune system, and the mind. This research provides fascinating insight into the underlying physiological mechanisms that explain how T’ai Chi actually works. Dr. Peter M. Wayne, a longtime T’ai Chi teacher and a researcher at Harvard Medical School, developed and tested protocols similar to the simplified program he includes in this book, which is suited to people of all ages, and can be done in just a few minutes a day. This book includes: • The basic program, illustrated by more than 50 photographs • Practical tips for integrating T’ai Chi into everyday activities • An introduction to the traditional principles of T’ai Chi • Up-to-date summaries of the research on the health benefits of T’ai Chi • How T’ai Chi can enhance work productivity, creativity, and sports performance • And much more

Master the ancient Chinese art of Tai Chi Chuan with this informative guide. One of the most popular Chinese martial arts, Tai Chi Chuan is also one of the most effective stress relievers available. In China it is also used extensively for the prevention and treatment of illnesses, and its beneficial effects for health and fitness are now widely recognized in the West. The Complete Book of Tai Chi Chuan is a comprehensive and fascinating guide to the practical application and potential benefits of Tai Chi Chuan. Packed with step-by-step illustrations for practice at home, this tai chi guide covers everything you would want to know about this ancient art, including its benefits for mental, spiritual and emotional development. This tai chi book is both an ideal introductory guide and an invaluable reminder for those who have already taken classes. Topics in The Complete Book of Tai Chi Chuan include: Tai Chi Chuan as a Martial ArtThe Concept of Yin-Yang and Tai Chi ChuanThe Historical Development of the Various StylesAdvice from the Great MastersTechniques and Skills of Pushing HandsSpecific Techniques for Combat SituationsTaoism and Spiritual Development in Tai Chi ChuanAnd many more

ORIENTAL MARTIAL ARTS. Based on a question one of the author's students asked: 'I've been studying Tai Chi with you for several years - but what is it?', this book provides the answer that is proved to be more complex than either teacher or student could have anticipated.

Explores the deep, internal work necessary for the effective practice of tai chi • Reveals the Taoist principles that gave birth to the Yang-style tai chi forms • Shows how tai chi can circulate powerful healing energies through the body Taoist adepts developed tai chi as both a martial art and a way to cultivate their physical body, energy body, and spirit body. Like all Taoist exercises, its main purpose is to form a connection to the basic energy that is the foundation of all life: chi. Until the beginning of the twentieth century, tai chi was considered a secret practice that was passed down only within a closely knit structure of family and loyal disciples. Despite its widespread growth in popularity as a martial art and health exercise, many of its underlying internal practices remain unknown. The Inner Structure of Tai Chi explores the deep, internal work necessary for the effective practice of tai chi. Designed for practitioners at every level, the book contains step-by-step illustrated instructions for mastering the 13 forms of early Yang-style tai chi, also known as Tai Chi Chi Kung. The authors demonstrate the relationship of the inner structure of tai chi to the absorption, transformation, and circulation of the three forces that animate all life--the Universal force, the Cosmic force, and the Earth force--revealing the principles and practices necessary to receive the full spectrum of physical, psychological, and spiritual benefits that tai chi can bring.

"A proven step-by-step plan to integrating the physical and psychological benefits of tai chi into your life."--Front cover.

Pocket Tai Chi for Beginners is the perfect introduction to this popular exercise discipline--now in a handy, inexpensive format! This book presents the "Simplified Tai Chi" method created by China's Ministry of Physical Culture and Sports. Unlike traditional Tai Chi, which has over 80 complicated movement sequences or forms, Simplified Tai Chi has 24 short and easy-to-remember movement forms which provide all the health benefits but are far easier for ordinary people to learn and practice on a daily basis. This book provides everything you need--step-by-step instructions and over 160 clear and simple illustrations. Tai Chi is the fastest-growing martial art in the world today--due to its physical, mental and spiritual benefits--combining low-impact exercise, self-healing, meditation and a philosophy of life all in one. Benefits of Tai Chi include: Reducing falls by improving flexibility and balance Relieving joint pain Reducing stress and anxiety Lower blood pressure Strengthened core, legs and upper body Master Tri Thong Dang is one of America's most respected Tai Chi instructors who has trained many thousands of practitioners. His easy-to-follow method highlights the spiritual essence of Tai Chi and at the same time its graceful simplicity.

Black Belt Hall-of-Famer Marshall Ho'o explains the ancient Chinese art of exercise and moving meditation in a short form, with temple exercises, self-defense moves, sparring, and health benefits. Fully illustrated.

Anatomy of Fitness: Tai Chi features detailed, full-colour anatomical illustrations of the muscles used in each move, so you’re always familiar with what your body should be doing.