Taiji
Exercise training, relaxation, health exercise, breathing training, self-defense, development of inner strength and the path to self-development
Taiji promotes the life energy Ji
It consists of a well-defined sequence of movements, with yang and yin movements replacing each other. Through this technique, the Ji is trained, where it is present in the deficiency, filled up, and stimulated the flow of energy. Properly carried out it promotes self-esteem, concentration, harmony of the soul and relaxation. This Far Eastern technique also promotes relaxation, coordination, inner and outer balance, harmonious breathing, diaphragmatic breathing, blood flow through the skin and internal organs, metabolism and digestion, flexibility and, of course, a good and physiologically correct posture.
Taiji - so called "shadow boxing"
Which might convey the wrong idea of brutal fight, but the opposite is the case. When a Chinese person speaks of Taiji, he speaks of the "path of harmony". "Shadow boxing" is not quite that wrong, because it is actually a martial art: fighting against internal enemies like diseases and weaknesses.
Special features of Taijiquan:
- The exercises require a high degree of concentration, whereby the mind is not distracted by other things.
- All movements are performed slowly and flow in an uninterrupted stream.
- Breathing is natural and sometimes happens completely in abdominal breathing. It is performed in rhythmic harmony with the rest of the body's movements.
Medical aspect
Taiji is a branch within the traditional martial arts Wushu. It has been practiced by the people since the 16th century to keep the body fit and to prevent or heal diseases. This sport became even more popular when, in 1956, simplified exercises were worked out. Taijiquan, which is often an important part of the treatment program in hospitals and sanatoriums, has been shown to be effective in combating such chronic diseases as hypertension, neurasthenia and pulmonary tuberculosis.
From the point of view of sports medicine, these peculiarities of Taijiquan should contribute greatly to the prevention and treatment of diseases. The high level of concentration that Taijiquan requires also promotes the functions of the central nervous system. As the body is used at the same time as the mind, these exercises stimulate the cerebral cortex, stimulating different regions on the one hand, and inhibiting some others on the other hand. This allows the brain to rest and releases the cerebral cortex from the pathological tension caused by all sorts of discomfort. Thus, this sport contributes to the healing of various nervous and mental illnesses.