Dawn breaks and out of the morning mist, people emerge like ghosts quietly
moving in sequence. This is the daily ritual in China as hundreds congregate
in parks and fields, each finding their own space to perform the elegant
martial arts discipline called `Tai Chi’ The Chinese elders are surprisingly
agile, bending and flexing their bodies with apparent ease as they calmly
practise the art of `meditation in motion’. To see these people, many grey
and wizened on the outside but emanating all the energy of youth, you can
only assume that Tai Chi is the elixir for a long and healthy life.
Generations of Chinese believe that correct body movement and posture is
synonymous with good vitality. They consider Tai Chi, with its combination
of exercise and meditative focus, as a means of moving and balancing the
`chi’ (vital energy) through the meridians, or energy pathways, in the body.
This vital force is what enhances health and well-being.
Tai Chi, also known as `grand ultimate’, has its roots in martial arts.
Despite its slow, graceful appearance, the forms or sequences are made up
of self-defence techniques that only become apparent when demonstrated at
speed. Although it seems to lack the dynamics of other martial arts, Tai
Chi is certainly a powerful system and not to be underestimated. Masters
of the art have demonstrated its effectiveness as a self-defence tool, time
and time again. These days, it is fundamentally used to improve and maintain
well-being.
Engaging mind, body and spirit, the series of controlled movements flow
into an eloquent sequence. Just watch a skilful practitioner performing
Tai Chi is a deeply calming experience. Movement is fluent and almost rhythmical
and there is a timeless quality that is totally engaging.
In China, many families consider Tai Chi to be just as important as the
daily ritual of sleeping and eating! Just 20-30 minutes of exercise each
day is enough to revive a tired spirit and instil a sense of wellness. Although
elders appreciate this gentle system for its ease of application, it is
a regime also commonly practised by people of all ages. It is excellent
for relieving tension and stress-related conditions. Regular practise can
improve health on all levels and has proved beneficial in treating existing
conditions. Tai Chi is excellent if you are recovering from illness or injury
or haven’t exercise for a while. When performed properly, Tai Chi gives
the body a thorough work-out!
Yang style Tai Chi, founded by Yang Luchan in the 18th century, is still
the most popular and widely practised style. It is characterised by its
easy, nimble and leisurely pace, which combines vigour with grace.
Tai Chi can be practised anywhere and this daily ritual, treasured by the
Chinese, is a way of bringing peace, health and harmony into your life!
Learning Tai Chi
There are different elements to Tai Chi practise. Learning solo forms is
fundamental to the art but can take quite a while to learn and a lifetime
to master! Lessons will mainly comprise of Tai Chi exercises to build basic
strength and suppleness, to work on balance and graceful movement and to
enhance energy levels. There is partner work to build sensitivity and awareness.
In later lessons, students can learn more advanced forms and Tai Chi sword!
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing and soft, plimsoll shoes.
- Don’t expect too much from the early lessons. It takes time and effort
to learn the art so be kind on yourself and learn at a leisurely pace.
- Relax and go with the flow! Enjoy yourself!
Instruction With SIFU MARK STRANGE
Sifu Mark Strange has over 18 years experience in the Chinese martial arts.
He began his own Tai Chi training in the early 90s with Master Derek Frearson
and Coach Zhao Rao Rao of China. Mark has visited China several times and
has received further training in Tai Chi with Master Hao in Foshan.
Mark focuses on providing a healthy balance of Tai Chi tuition, highlighting
the benefits to health and well-being but also demonstrating its effectiveness
as a graceful martial art.
