Tai chi: your thing ?
Tai chi and women
Yang Cheng Fu style tai chi is an excellent form of exercise for everyone but there are certain ways in which it is particularly appropriate for and appealing to women. It can be learned as a martial art but it can also be learned for health, academic or artistic purposes. Whichever aspects of
tai chi appeal to you, the same basic principles apply at the beginning. These principles may have a special appeal for women as their mastery requires qualities that are traditionally considered to be more feminine than masculine: gentleness, softness, sensitivity,
relaxation, slowness, yielding and the ability to focus on a number of different tasks simultaneously. These are all qualities that tend to come naturally to most women.
Unwind
For women that have been too busy caring for their families or pursuing their careers to spare much time for their own health and fitness or self development, tai chi is an excellent way back into regular
exercise. It allows busy people to unwind and have some time to themselves. Its gentle nature also accommodates all ages and a wide variety of physical types, providing a safe and effective means to improve your physical and mental condition whether you are 18 or 80.
Tai chi is for everyone
The emphasis on gentleness and relaxation makes
tai chi a highly accessible form of exercise that can be approached from various levels of health and fitness without any need for strenuous preparation. Because the movements are soft and slow, the beginner can start to learn and to practice immediately from their own level and to progress at their own pace, without any fear of muscle strain or exhaustion.
Pregnancy
Yang style
tai chi can be practised before and during
pregnancy; it strengthens your body and keeps you in a relaxed condition, both physically and mentally. It will improve circulation in your legs and help to alleviate back pain. The system will also give you greater awareness and sensitivity.
