Tai Chi - Spot Light!

A group of about 7-8 middle-aged to senior people both men and women out in the park early morning swaying their hands in synchronized motion, looking calm and unfazed by passer-by's curiosity  - This is the scene I come across every morning while walking from the bus stop to the office building!

I first heard about Tai Chi back at home in India many years ago where there were some classes being conducted every once or twice a week. I had been told that Tai Chi is 'slow' and that it might be suitable for slightly older people. The fact that out here in Singapore I mostly see the older generation actually practicing it outdoors reinforces that statement I had heard way back.

So here's some background from a bit of research I did!

Originally taught as a martial art, when the benefits of Tai Chi were discovered, it started to become a form of exercise, relaxation and preventive medicine. Tai Chi was formulated as a softer form of martial arts, yielding softness on the outside, and the strength and power and will on the inside. The purpose of Tai Chi Chuan is to cultivate or transform Qi - or interior energy - to Shen - or Spirit - in the human being. To use inner strength and energy, also for martial purposes.

The most beautiful thing I find about this is that, anyone who can walk, can begin this practice. I believe Tai Chi's versatility in this sense makes it very endearing!