History and Benefits of Tai Chi Chih

 

What is Tai Chi Chih?

Tai Chi Chih (pronounced Tie-Chee-Cha) is a comfortable, dynamic and fun way to improve your health and well being. Founded by Justin F. Stone in 1974, Tai Chi Chih has been described as “joy through movement” or a moving meditation.

It has nineteen easy to learn movements and one stationary pose. The focus of Tai Chi Chih is on the circulation and balance of energy in the body.

Tai Chi Chih is not a martial art. Martial artisits use the Chi energy for self defense and to demonstrate the power of Chi in the breaking of wood or bricks. Tai Chi Chih uses the same Chi energy for internal healing, wellness, and balancing of body, mind and spirit.

 

The Benefits of Tai Chi Chih?

The benefits of Tai Chi Chih are felt within weeks or months of practicing. No special clothing, equipment or experience is required. Only a few feet of floor space is necessary.

Beneficial results are obtained regardless of physical condition, agility or age. It is practiced with the body relaxed, but the mind clear and focused.

Benefits to the Body and Mind are:

  • Helps to improves balance, flexibility, coordination and reduces falls
  • Fantastic for reducing stress
  • Strengthens the immune system
  • Improves circulation
  • Strengthens ligaments/tendons
  • Helps manage chronic diseases, such as arthritis, heart disease, depression and diabetes
  • Great for rejuvenation
  • Gives a feeling of well being
  • Promotes peace and tranquility
  • Improves mental clarity
  • Helps the ability to focus
  • Inspires creativity
  • Boosts your overall energy

 

Many who practice Tai Chi Chih have found the additional benefit of an enhanced connection to their own spiritual or religious beliefs. In my experience, I have met a diverse group of people who practice Tai Chi Chih.

  • A Catholic Sister who uses Tai Chi Chih to help her pray better
  • A Buddhist who practices Tai Chi Chih to clear his awareness
  • A Zen practioner uses Tai Chi Chih as an easier form of meditation.
  • A Jewish man who uses Tai Chi Chih to do his good deeds by teaching it to convicts.

 

The list goes on with various other religions. Tai Chi Chih fosters an attitude of kindness, generosity, and conscience awareness. It provides tools to help actualize your potential.

A number of organizations and associations have touted the various benefits of the slow, deliberate, yin-yang movements of Tai Chi Chih including:

 
 

Private Lessons and Group Practice