Called “meditation in motion,” Tai Chi circulates the life force energy as a key to great health. Students of all ages find Tai Chi Jeung relaxing, easy to learn and deeply rewarding. Rob has studied with Master Ly (Grand Master of the Tai Mantis for more than 20 years and brings a fresh outlook to this ancient style. Centuries of practice have proven that Tai Chi and Chi Kung (traditional breath and warm-up exercises) improve health, reduce tension and impact a number of diseases including high blood pressure, arthritis, asthma, stomach ailments, heart problems and anxiety. This safe and gentle exercise supports longevity, disease prevention and rejuvenation. Students feel grounded, refreshed and more aware. 

Tai chi also illustrates the balance of yin and yang, which in Chinese philosophy, are the two opposing elements that make up the universe and everything in it. Yin is believed to have the qualities of water, such as coolness, darkness, stillness and inward and downward directions--and to be feminine in character. Yang is believed to have the qualities of fire, such as heat, light, action and upward and outward movement--and to be masculine. In this belief system, one's health depends on yin and yang being in balance 

Tai chi's two other important elements are breathing and meditation. When practicing tai chi, you concentrate on your practice and put aside distracting thoughts. You breathe in a deep, relaxed and focused manner. Practicing tai chi:

• Massages the internal organs.
• Aids the exchange of gases in the lungs.
• Helps the digestive system work better.
• Increases calmness and awareness. 
• Improves balance.

A low-impact, aerobic, weight bearing exercise, tai chi can bring about the following health benefits:

• Improved bone health.
• Increased muscle strength, coordination and flexibility.
• Lower risk for falls, especially in elderly people.
• Relief from pain and stiffness--for example, arthritis.
• Better sleep.
• Improved overall wellness.

Certain concepts from Chinese philosophy were important in tai chi's development, although not every person who practices tai chi for health purposes, especially in the West, learns or uses them. These include:

• A vital energy called qi underlies all living things.
• Chi flows in people through specific channels called meridians.
• Chi is important in health and disease.
• Tai chi is a practice that supports, unblocks and redirects the flow of chi.