T'ai Chi is sometimes called a moving meditation, because it promotes serenity through gentle movements. Its roots are in the martial arts, but its movements themselves are never aggressive. They are based on shifting the body weight through a series of light controlled movements that flow rhythmically together into one long graceful posture or movement. Tai Chi is a type of Qigong. This is simply any exercise that improves Qi circulation. In Eastern medicine, Qi is seen as the Eternal Life Force that keeps us alive or the presence which separate the living from the dead. Its balance and unimpeded flow is critical to sound health. Qi is carried throughout the body through a complex network of meridians or channels.

T'ai Chi movements are intended to balance the flow of Qi in mind as well as body. They use the whole the body and are performed slowly, with concentration on breathing and internal calm. Anyone regardless of age or physical ability can practice T'ai Chi.

T'ai Chi performed regularly can reduce stress, anxiety and depression; increase flexibility, improve muscle strength and definition which can improve balance and coordination and can help reduce the number of falls in older adults. T'ai Chi can also increase energy, stamina and agility; improve sleep quality, such as staying asleep longer at night and feeling more alert during the day. It can help slow bone loss in women after menopause, help lower blood pressure, improve cardiovascular fitness and relieving chronic pain. Finally T'ai Chi can increase feeling of well-being.

Additionally we will explore:

• Various Qigong exercises
• The concept of a Qi energy ball
• Self healing Qi exercises
• Self defense moves extracted from the T'ai Chi movements
• Proper breathing and meditation techniques
• Acupressure healing