Saturday, September 14, 2013

Secret Health Benefits of Yoga and Tai Chi

Do people who follow Eastern philosophies know better than those of us who don't? If so, what is it that they know? Yoga and Tai Chi aren't just a type of exercise, they are a life style. I would suggest that before you start one of these regimes that you have a physical at your family doctor's. This is just to make certain that you are physically fit. It also gives you a starting point from which to work.

Yoga and Tai Chi (TC) can be learned through DVD's, television programs or through hands-on classes. I would suggest that you try the classes first because you will have an instructor on hand to assist you in your technique. The instructor can also teach you how the body movements will assist in your mental and physical health and well being. Yoga originated in India. The name means to unite and the movements unite body and mind. Yoga is also a method of meditation. Many of these methods pre date Buddha.

Yoga can be challenging for plus-sized people but it is an excellent way for them to exercise. Yoga gives a body extended flexibility. It is an exercise especially good for people with arthritis because it not only increases flexibility, it also increases joint lubrication. Yoga also completes the detoxification of the body and tones muscles. Because yoga is a lifestyle, it is considered a combination of breathing exercises, physical work outs, and meditation which are done on a daily basis.

Tai Chi Chuan is a Chinese martial art as well as a training form for longevity and health. TC is best known for the pictures of many Chinese in parks every day doing their exercise routines in sort of a choreographed dance. It is supposed to fuse the Yin and Yang. Many of the martial art postures are combined with the "pushing hands" movement we have all seen in Tai Chi demonstrations. Tai Chi is a part of the Wudang martial arts group. Many people follow TC who have absolutely no interest in martial arts.

TC is accepted as an adjunct in Chinese medicine. Aspects of Chinese medicine are taught to advanced Tai Chi masters. Tai Chi incorporates the use of leverage to ease the pressure on joints. Tai Chi also encourages using softness to meet hardness in life. They are taught to meet the yin with yang.

Lao Tzu said that the "soft and pliable will defeat the harsh and intractable". Those schooled in Tai Chi are sensitive to the movements of their opponents and can react to them. Modern Tai Chi emphasizes health. Classes are held in hospitals, schools, nursing centers, senior centers and community centers.

Medical professionals have found that TC is beneficial in recovering from stroke, heart attack and is good in treatment of Parkinson's, multiple sclerosis and arthritis. There is speculation that it also benefits people with diabetes. Studies made recently have shown some benefit in ADHD treatment. According to the Mayo Clinic the movements of TC reduce stress. It is non-competitive and self paced. It can be done in groups or alone.








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