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There are several styles of t’ai chi, one is the Yang-style which was founded by Yang Lu-chan or popularly known as Yang Fu-k’ui. When Yang became a teacher of the art form, other syles emerged and developed from t’ai chi. When he became a member of the Palace Imperial Guards, Yang introduced the style and eventually, it became popular.
Currently, about 20% of the population worldwide is performing t’ai chi as exercise. There are several reasons why this form has become the preferred style. Even if it is a martial arts form, t’ai chi style has distinctive forms. The hand forms are slow, steady and flows softly, unlike the rapid movements of other martial arts form.
Even so, t’ai chi still has the same health benefits. This practice has become a popular style in businesses, schools and even in hospitals. This form can significantly improve a person’s physical health. There are some business owners swearing on the efficacy of t’ai chi in improving productivity among employees.
But practicing or training martial art form like Yang t’ai chi requires time; and for individuals who live fast-paced lifestyle and are always rushing from one schedule to the next, this extra time is a luxury. But Yang’s style does not only have a long form, it also has a short form.
Yang style tai chi chuan Grandmaster Yang Zhenduo performing Golden Rooster Stands On One Leg (右金鸡独立) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
The Yang’s long form has more than 300 movements. The short form uses about 108 movements and still retains the same health benefits, as well as the principle or techniques for self-defense. Since the number of movements are reduced, it takes a shorter period of time to execute and therefore, can easily fit a person’s hectic schedule.
Stress is another reason why injecting t’ai chi training in your schedule is crucial. Our society and culture thrives on stress, we are ridden with deadlines and pressure. Practicing t’ai chi can helps relieve stress. T’ai chi also helps a person develop their focus, calmness, and concentration despite being in stressful situations. The movement are executed in a relaxed manner, thus, effective in cleansing the body and mind.
Yang t’ai chi is beneficial in many levels. Physically, the practice of this martial art form increases a person’s flexibility, immunity, and cardiovascular health. Since t’ai chi revitalized the body through the movement of qi or energy, practitioners became and felt younger that their actual age which puts cosmetic surgery to shame. Aside from improving overall physical health, psychological and mental problems such as fear, anger, hatred, and obsession, can be released through the practice of t’ai chi.
The practice of Yang t’ai chi is definitely one of the best ways of guaranteeing a longer and healthier life.
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