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Tai Chi Chuan
Tai Chi Ch'uan may be viewed holistically as an exercise of mind- body unification or personal integration. It is a tool of health, and is a process of re-integration. Thus, it reveals itself primarily with biological effects in a physical sequence of flowing energy. When conscious awareness of sets (Ch’uan) is united with energy, one is integrated and in compliance with Tao. The fundamental principle is to be stressed is that through practice of forms (Ch'uan), much of the original meaning of Taoist and Tai-Chi Ch'uan classics may be comprehended intellectually and the physical well-being enhanced.
With the concept of health as a harmony of mind and body, a holistic concept of health hinges upon an understanding of the natural balance of Yin and Yang as manifested in mind-body dualism. Practicing Tai-Chi Ch’uan exercises manifests a calming, harmonizing effect upon the body and mind, benefiting the respiratory apparatus and other systems through diaphragmatic breathing. Breathing, characterized by tight chest, tight stomach, upper-body oriented approach, can restrict the natural movement of the diaphragm and lungs. Chronic tension in this area is indicative of imbalances in the nervous, circulatory and respiratory systems.
In Tai Chi Ch’uan practice, the intercostals muscles, diaphragm and abdominal muscles are to be relaxed. Because the lungs have no musculature per se attached directly, relying upon movement of air mass surrounding them, the relaxed movement of the diaphragm is the most efficient method of moving the inhaled air mass. This relaxed diaphragmatic breathing is exhibited by new-born babies - naturally and comfortably without undue strain. Physiologically, a change towards diaphragmatic, relaxed breathing will produce several beneficial results. |
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by echoQuest