According to Chinese medicine, our bodies utilize energy, called qi, which actually runs along lines in our bodies called meridians. The concept of qi, or life force, is central to the practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TMC). If it moves well, we are healthy and balanced. If ever the flow of the energy along the meridians is blocked or interrupted, or if the qi is weak, we can get ill in the body or in the mind.
The slow, deliberate movements in the practice are designed to inspire the flow of this life force around our body and all the major organs in the body. Another Chinese practice of movement, qigong, uses the same idea of slow movement that is joined with slow breathing and meditation, and focusing on the present moment. It is believed that given that blockages in the energy flow can cause illness, unblocking those blockages and stimulating the flowing of qi in the body can heal and also prevent illness and to keep us healthy and happy.
Yet another practice in Chinese medicine, acupuncture, uses needles to get rid of blocks and help the qi move through the body. Western doctors are sometimes suspicious of the thought of energies and meridians, but the health benefits can also be explained in Western medical terms.
Both Western and Chinese medicine encourage the idea of spinal alignment to assist with tension and pain in the back, neck and shoulders. Learning to move slowly and following the flow of your own breath is a good method to calm down and release stress in the body and the mind. The movements can also help the joints to move more readily and will help to increase flexibility.
The practices are also safe. Because the regimens are done slowly, there is no risk of injuring yourself even if you are not fit or flexible to start with. Tai chi and qi gong are acceptable for everybody, young or old, fit or not fit, and anyone can benefit from consistent practice.
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