I love the art of Tai Chi, it is for all ages, I have several CD's on Tai Chi. I find it relaxing and spiritual. It would be nice to see it more it community centers around the country to promote health and well being. I saw a website designer that made a really cool site with Tai Chi, http://linwebconsulting.com, had some great ideas on the art itself. To your health!
Tony Ramosof CA4:33PM September 26, 2011
After suffering 5 major heart attacks since age 32, recovering from major kidney surgery, an enlarged abdominal aorta, and most recently Prostate cancer I needed something other than the usual treatments. My mind was in an uproar and causing nervous symptems and mental fatigue.
I needed something to help me out quickly. I happened to bump into a Tai Chi Si Fu at our local Senior Center and she explained many of the health benefits of Tai Chi. I have been studying Tai Chi for 5 months, my mental state has turned completely around and I just found out I am cancer free, the Aorta has not increase in size since 2007, Cholesterol is 111. A complete turn around. One that I am convinced was due to my Tai Chi lessons and the peace of mind it brought me.
I suggest anyone seeking an alternate method of treatment to Try Tai Chi. If they don't remove the address below you can visit Fang-Chih Lee at www.taichiwithfang.com
Reggie Macamauxof MA3:28PM September 15, 2011
I've been going to the Tai chi Chuan Center of NY (http://www.taichichuancenter.org) right in the heart of Times Square since 2003 and I recommend it to anyone in the area that wants to learn this wonderful art. I also volunteer for the group, organizing our free morning classes in Bryant Park, and have meet many wonderful people over the years.
In 2007 I tore my ACL during a pick-up soccer game and had surgery, followed by physical therapy. After 6 months, the therapist said, "that's all your insurance will cover", and I was shocked because my leg was still only at 50% power. So I went right back to the school and strengthened my leg back up to full power. The next year I joined a soccer league and have had no further injuries since.
And that's not even mentioning the mental calmness that tai chi has allowed me to develop over the years. Even a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, so take that first step and come down and try it out. I'm usually there Thursday nights.
Pietro Sabatinoof NY2:10PM August 31, 2011
As an aging Boomer, I can attest to the benefits of T'ai Chi described in this article. From practicing T'ai Chi for the last 3 years, I now have less stress and anxiety, more flexibility, and many fewer aches and pains (neck, back, and knees). It makes my body feel younger because I can do more without pain.
Jane Brody had it right when she said that the question is, "why not" practice T'ai Chi based on the scientific evidence.
The article makes a good point that one needs a teacher. It's definitely a skill, and the proper form makes all the difference. I feel lucky to have found a teacher in Master James Mao who not only knows the martial arts aspects, but also offers great insights into chi development.
Kay Loughrey
Whole Mind Wellness Blog
Kay Loughreyof MD2:37PM August 07, 2011
I've been practising Falun Gong, a traditional qigong and cultivation practice, for 4 years now. It has had an incredible impact on my health. I feel energized, and more positive. I literally have not even had a cold since I started. Before that I would get sinus infections and urinary tract infections constantly, and suffered from depression. It has even been known to cure serious diseases after a few months of consistent practice.
Falun Gong is different than most qigong practices though, because it asks practitioners to follow principles of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Tolerance in their daily lives, and not just focus on their physical selves. I believe this holistic approach is the true reason for the health benefits. Mental and physical is so closely tied together, unhealthy habits in both aspects must be addressed.
The other part of Falun Gong that is different is that it is always free to practice, taught by volunteers in over 110 different countries. It is heavily persecuted in China though, due to the fact that it was extremely popular - the Communist Party do not tolerate spiritual practices or alternative beliefs, especially those that are so popular.
All info and video instructions can be found at www.falundafa.org or www.faluninfo.net
Hope it can help you as much as it helped me!
Justina Reichel2:27PM May 20, 2011
I'm a cancer survivor who took up Qigong to improve my range of motion. Still doing it --and Tai Chi--2 yrs. later. Not only have I improved my flexibility but my strength and balance as well. Had tried yoga and 'failed.' Also developed inner ear vertigo problem. Not so with TC/QG. Wish this ancient healing art was available to more people. I'm lucky to live in major metro area so classes are readily available. Am interested in reading your book, Bob! Be well....Gesundheit.
anne bourneof GA10:35PM May 05, 2011
Learning all these things push me to learn this Tai Chi". I'm not into martial arts but I'm a health concern person. Thank you so much for posting this! Here's another health care tips for your teeth. check this out! http://www.glastonburysmilecenter.com/
Ayeof NV11:10AM April 16, 2011
chai tea?
stonemason89of MO10:15AM February 21, 2011
IN 1982 I WAS INVOLVED IN A MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT, WHICH LEFT ME IN A COMA FOR SEVERAL WEEKS..
nOW 25YRS LATER I'M PRESIDENT OF WWW.MINDBODYEXERCISE.NET
ALONG MY PATH IF BEEN INTRODUCED TO QIGONG...
DAVIDB.FOULKof MD8:27PM February 19, 2011
Do you know if there is an experienced teacher in Little Rock, AR?
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Tony Ramos of CA 4:33PM September 26, 2011
Reggie Macamaux of MA 3:28PM September 15, 2011
Pietro Sabatino of NY 2:10PM August 31, 2011
Kay Loughrey of MD 2:37PM August 07, 2011
Justina Reichel 2:27PM May 20, 2011
anne bourne of GA 10:35PM May 05, 2011
Aye of NV 11:10AM April 16, 2011
stonemason89 of MO 10:15AM February 21, 2011
DAVIDB.FOULK of MD 8:27PM February 19, 2011
Cindy Musgrove of AR 9:28AM February 05, 2011