Tai Chi has been proven to help reduce anxiety and stress, while also increasing balance and flexibility. However, most people see this internal martial art as being just a useless dance. That is definitely not the case. One thing you may not know is that Tai Chi was first developed as self-defense martial art. It then evolved towards an exercise form that is modernly used for stress reduction, together with help for so many other conditions. It is usually described by saying “meditation in motion” and manages to offer serenity through flowing, gentle movements.
Who Can Use Tai Chi To Fight Off Stress?
The most important thing you have to understand about Tai Chi is that it will put a minimal stress on your joints and muscles. This makes it really safe for people of all fitness levels and ages. Because of the fact that Tai Chi is such low impact, it will be perfect for older adults that cannot actually exercise in a different way.
Tai Chi is obviously appealing as it is so cheap and does not require special equipment. You can easily do it outdoors, indoors, in a group or alone.
In most situations Tai Chi is safe. Pregnant women or individuals with joint problems, fractures, hernia, severe osteoporosis or back pain can easily use it to reduce stress and improve overall health. If you have physical problems, make sure you consult your health care provider. Based on your situation, you may need to avoid certain postures or modify them in order to be able to exercise.
Why Should You Consider Tai Chi?
It is a shame to see that Tai Chi is so misunderstood. When you perform it correctly, it can be a huge part of your overall approach towards reaching a better health level. Out of the various benefits associated with Tai Chi, we can mention:
- Decreasing anxiety and stress
- Increasing stamina and energy
- Increasing the aerobic capacity of the body
- Increasing agility, balance and flexibility
- Increasing muscle definition and strength
Tai Chi will aid you by:
- Enhancing your immune system
- Enhancing sleep quality
- Improving joint pain
- Lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels
- Improving congestive heart failure symptoms
- Reducing fall risks in adults that are older
Starting With Tai Chi To Fight Stress
You can easily buy books or see videos that highlight how to start in Tai Chi but we warmly recommend that you seriously consider professional guidance. The work that is done by a qualified Tai Chi instructor should not be dismissed. The truth is that you can so easily become better at this when you learn the proper techniques.
The good news is that Tai Chi classes are available in most communities these days. All that you have to do is contact a major fitness center or use the internet so that you can find Tai Chi classes. The instructors do not really need to go through a standard program or have a license. However, this means that you need to be really careful as the experience of the instructor counts a lot at the end of the day. Focus on recommendations and reviews written by clients.