Changes in your work or personal life that are beyond your control can cause you to feel stressed. Tai chi offers a solution to help you relax without needing to use workout equipment or take drugs. Here’s how this popular martial arts activity helps restore a calm demeanor. 

A Guide to Tai Chi & Stress Relief

What is Tai Chi?

Tai chi is an ancient Chinese martial art that combines low-impact moves and stretches with mental changes and breath control. The practice originated thousands of years ago, but people worldwide currently participate in this form of relaxation and exercise. Students of this movement style range in age from young to old, but it is popular among seniors because it is easy on muscles and joints.

What is the Process of Stress Relief?

This martial art form is based on a philosophy that seeks harmony and balance through the flow of Qi. Traditional Chinese culture believes that Qi is a vital energy force flowing through all living entities.

Tai chi reduces stress is by allowing your mind to concentrate solely on the sequence of movements involved. Each pose is designed to encourage the flow of Qi through the body. The postures complement each other, encouraging mindfulness by combining motion and meditation.

What Results Might You Expect?

Even practicing short combinations of movements, breathwork, and meditation a few days a week can lead to a relaxed state, psychological stress relief, and lower blood pressure. Practitioners of this martial art enjoy the popular Yang style, as well as the smaller, more compact movements of the Wu style.

Seniors who practice the exercises experience better sleep and improved mental clarity. Studies show that individuals who practiced tai chi for several hours a week had lower mortality rates than nonpractitioners. The benefits of this martial art are comparable to the results of walking or jogging.

If you want to learn tai chi for its stress-relieving benefits, turn to Alpha Omega Martial Arts in Parker, CO. Their black belt experts create a welcoming, relaxing, and goal-oriented atmosphere. They work with students of all ages and skill levels in meditation sessions and fitness classes. Children and adults with learning disabilities can also participate in the brain-training classes offered by this martial arts school. Call (720) 480-2950 to speak with a friendly staff member about class schedules.