A Meditative Movement

Tai chi is one of the most beautiful sports. The graceful arm positions and slow steps are mesmerizing to watch. Sometimes called "meditation in motion," it combines the movements of yoga and the mindfulness of meditation. Although we've only recently become aware of it in the west, there's evidence that tai chi has been around over 2000 years. Probably rooted in Qi Gong, its original purpose was self-defense and mental peace.

The various modern forms of tai chi come from five traditional schools. Tai chi chuan, as it is known, translates as "supreme ultimate fist," "boundless fists," or "great extremes boxing." There are stories of tai chi masters with moves so swift and stealthy that an attacker could be thrown to the floor without bystanders seeing exactly what had happened. Though it's difficult to reconcile that image with the usually older people in parking lots and parks moving fractions of inches at a time, it's the use of internal energy that makes these subtle movements powerful.

Practicing tai chi is said to give one greater mental clarity, physical strength and longevity. More than one hundred possible routines, called forms, most of which are named for animals or natural phenomena, give the practice great variety. The forms all require rhythmic breathing coordinated with movement. Even people who have trouble meditating lying on a mat or sitting cross legged find relaxation and focus in the gentle flowing moves of tai chi.

Tai chi is considered by many to be affiliated with Chinese medicine, acupuncture, and other healing practices. It can be as calm or aggressive as you want so it's beneficial exercise for people of any age. Last spring in China we saw elderly men and women alongside teens doing tai chi in the parks. They come out as the sun rises and sets and it's relaxing just to stand and watch. Anyone can join in, and we talked about getting into a group, but we always seemed to arrive at the end of the practice.

Good News Girlz is hosting a tai chi class at the Cooper Fitness Center at Preston Forest in Dallas on Saturday, February 13 from 10:30 to 11:30AM. Everyone is welcome to join us. Wear comfortable, loose clothing and flat shoes or sneakers. Click here to RSVP and get more information.