Introduction to Tai Chi and Qigong
Tai Chi Chuan is an ancient Chinese martial art in which the training combines slow, flowing movements, mindful breathing, and focused awareness. These days Tai Chi is mostly practiced to promote health, relaxation, and overall well-being.
Tai Chi Chuan is usually translated as “Supreme Ultimate Boxing”:
Tai (太) – supreme, great, or grand
Chi (极 / 極) – ultimate, highest point, or polarity
Chuan (拳) – fist, boxing, or martial art
Consistent practice of Tai Chi improves both physical and mental health. Its graceful, continuous movements improve balance and coordination, while calming and clearing the mind.
The Yin-Yang symbol is also called the Tai Chi Symbol because it's a visual representation of Tai Chi's interconnected states - such as tension and relaxation, emptiness and fullness, movement and stillness.
The circular flowing lines of the symbol also bring to mind the movement patterns of Tai Chi, as well as balance through continuous change.
Qigong (pronounced Chee-Gong) is not a martial art, but a system of gentle exercises, breathwork, and meditation that has records stretching back to nearly 200 years BC.
Qi (氣 / 气) – life force, or the body's vital energy
Gong (功) – skill or art developed through consistent effort
Qigong principles are the foundation of many traditional Chinese health practices, including martial arts. There are many forms of Qigong all developed to cultivate health, vitality, and mental calm, and are often used in Tai Chi class as supplementary exercises.