Wednesday, May 15, 2013

Living Longer With Tai Chi Classes Toronto

By Jennie Sandoval


Enrolling in tai chi classes Toronto has many health benefits. Probably the best one of all is that it can actually help people live longer. The latest medical research is showing that those who practice this ancient martial art not only live longer, but are healthier, stronger and enjoy better peace of mind.

Many older people have found that their coordination and balance has been improved by participating in gentle martial arts. They learn to get in touch with their muscles and add extra strength to their bodies. The name tai chi means Supreme Ultimate Fist, however it is considered an internal martial art because it focuses on defense, not attack.

The training uses slow movements and deep breathing. The participants are encouraged to focus on coordination and relaxation as they go through their moves. It is a tremendous way to relieve stress and help both mind and body relax. As they slow down and focus on their moves many people often find that they enter a state of mental calm and clarity.

The writings of the Tai chi classics describe how the joints are leveraged to achieve coordination. This is by using the slow rhythmic and repetitive movements. The blood flow and circulation systems are also helped. Deep breathing allows more oxygen to enter the body and move around. The lymph system also benefits along with most of the other body systems. In ancient Chinese medicine meditation is seen as a necessary step to optimal health.

There are five major features to the practice of tai chi. These are the hand and weapons routines that are used in defensive combat. The neigong and qigong, the breathing and awareness movements that are a necessary part of meditation and relaxation. Many people like to focus on this aspect for its stress relief value. The tuishou movements are the response drills and sanshou is the self defense moves that are part of the combat routines.

Classes are held at various times throughout the week. Due to scheduling most people prefer evenings. It is important to find a studio close to home, especially during the winter months. Many senior centers also hold classes so that local residents can attend with their friends. It can be a little intimidating for some older folks to start a class by themselves.

There are several things to look for before signing up for a class. One of the most important factor is the experience of the instructor. They should have many years of training and have led plenty of classes. The environment is also important. It should be the correct temperature, not too warm and not too cold. The floors should be wood as this provides a comfortable and non slip surface. Most people perfect to exercise in bare feet or flat soled shoes. There is no uniform requirement but loose comfortable clothing is recommended.

Those who take tai chi classes Toronto often report enjoying overall better health. They become more attuned to their muscles and developed improved strength and balance. In addition the meditation helps them to stay calm and reduce stress. Any time that stress is reduced the person will have less chance of illness or disease.




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