A New Stress Release Lifestyle

In today's world where a lot of disease (dis-ease) is related to stress it’s important we take responsibility looking after our own health doing whatever necessary to reduce or balance excess stress.  Our bodies cannot differentiate between different kinds of stresses i.e. real fear/phobias and danger or work-related pressure, trauma, bereavement, verbal abuse, depression, debt, driving on busy roads, arguments, environmental or chemical stress, running late, queuing or even being stuck in traffic. 

It could also be argued modern day activities/hobbies playing computer/video games may cause players to display similar stress/anxieties when trying to beat other players in competitive, yet passive, non-physical manners.

When the body becomes stressed for whatever reason it goes into "flight or fight" mode releasing adrenaline that kick-starts complicated physiological processes increasing heart rate and breathing making available more oxygen, directing blood from stomach (digestive system) to muscles, thyroid releasing hormones increasing metabolism, liver converts glycogen into glucose providing more energy which increases body heat resulting in sweating in order to cool body down. 

In ancient times, people in "fight or flight” mode would have used up excess energy, but in today's society, excess energy has little release if no real danger or need.  When stressed certain individuals may also comfort eat food high in sugar and simple carbohydrates providing body with even more energy.

Tai Chi is a highly popular form of holistic (mind & body) exercise in many "styles" and form sequences that has survived for 1000s of years.  It’s practiced by more people on Earth than any other single form of holistic exercise. 

Tai Chi has natural qualities of promoting tranquillity and harmony within one's life and surroundings; it releases stress, keeps body, mind & spirit alert, and balances energy (known as Qi, Chi and Ki) in body.  Tai Chi has been encouraged by the NHS to aid balance, posture, mobility, cardiac rehabilitation.  Many learners claim it lowers high blood pressure.  The seated forms are popular in care homes and stroke clinics as it can be practised by anyone regardless of their ability. 

Relax and de-stress the natural way by reconnecting your body, mind and spirit. Through circular, flowing Tai Chi movements ANYONE regardless of physical stamina or ability can benefit as Tai Chi improves balance, coordination, memory, reduces blood pressure, reduces anxiety and stress.


Philosophy of Tai Chi

The principles and philosophy of Tai Chi which originated as a fighting martial art is based upon various elements such as Taoism, Yin Yang, Qi and  Meridian or Energy Channels (Traditional Chinese Medicine).

How your BODY could benefit from Tai Chi

Regardless of your physical ability or stamina, anyone of any age can participate in Tai Chi. Even if you tire easily or have mobility problems an adapted version can be done whilst seated. Tai Chi will improve balance, coordination, concentration, strenghten joint flexibility, and muscle strength, benefits arthritis sufferers, reduce blood pressure.

How your MIND could benefit from Tai Chi

The slow, abdominal (diaphragmatic) breathing technique alters (lengthens) brain waves which reduces anxiety and stress. Also, you need to focus mentally on doing the Tai Chi movements and that is different from conventional exercises where the mind gets left behind or completely ignored when for instance being in a gym watching television whilst working out or when walking with a friend just chatting, which is beneficial too, but in such activities your own awareness and connection between body and mind are lost.

How your SPIRIT could benefit from Tai Chi

This is something to be experienced but effects of enjoyment will be noticed even after a single session. With regular practice you may experience mental quietness and become more intune with your own spiritual connection through meditation as some of the movements involve standing (or seated) meditation which also calms and clears the mind and spirit leaving you to take on a more balanced view of nature and everything else around you.

Relax and de-stress the natural way by reconnecting your body, mind and spirit. Through circular, flowing Tai Chi movements ANYONE regardless of physical stamina or ability can benefit as Tai Chi improves balance, coordination, memory, reduces blood pressure, reduces anxiety and stress.