What is Tai Chi?
Tai Chi was initially developed as a martial art, in China, around 400 years ago and features a unique 
combination of Chinese medical theory and fighting skills. Many of the actions have an obvious martial application but it is characterised by slow, flowing movements. This makes it an excellent form of exercise. It is both gentle and powerful, so it is suitable for people of all ages and levels of ability.
According to Chinese medical theory our physical and mental health is determined by the quality of energy (chi) flowing through the body along the meridians. Tai Chi teaches us to open the joints, relax the muscles and align our posture to enhance the flow of chi.
Why Chen Style Tai Chi?
There are many styles and schools of tai chi and, although the movements may be different, they should all follow the same principles. Chen family tai chi is widely accepted to be the oldest and original style, from which all others have been derived. Within Chen Style, developing the flow of movement and stability of posture is the foundation for practice. Once a degree of skill has been attained and the body becomes suitably pliable, we encourage the use of lower postures and explosive movements (‘fajin’). This makes the exercise more dynamic and strengthening. We are extremely fortunate to have as our Association Principal, Chen Yingjun. He is the 20th generation, direct descendant of Chen Wangting, the founding father of all tai chi. At Cotswold Tai Chi we follow his excellent teaching as closely as possible, to sustain this most authentic tai chi discipline.
What is Qi Gong (Chi Gung or Chi Kung)?
Qi Gong means ‘practice of vital energy’. (The different spellings are merely due to different translations.) It involves specific movements and breathing techniques designed to increase both quality and quantity of chi in the body. A Chinese doctor may prescribe specific exercises for the treatment of illness and to aid convalescence. As the term is not so well known in the West, Qi Gong tends to be regarded as an aspect of Tai Chi.
What are the health benefits of Tai Chi?
Tai Chi and Qi Gong are very beneficial to our health. In particular, we can expect improvements to posture, balance, mobility, flexibility and coordination. Much of this is achieved through mindfulness, being fully present and paying full attention to our movement and the alignment of the body. Your teacher will show you how to achieve this and help you to make adjustments.
We also develop softness and relaxation, which relieves stress, calms the mind and enhances the flow of energy around the body. In Chinese medicine this is said to improve vitality and strengthen the immune system.