Enhancing body, mind and spirit
with Tai Chi and Qigong
Shifu Amanda Heidke
Tai Chi
Tai Chi Chuan (Taijiquan) is the full name for what most people refer to as Tai Chi.
Tai Chi means ‘The Supreme Ultimate’ and encompasses philosophical and spiritual concepts.
The term ‘Chuan’, although translating as ‘fist’ or ‘boxing’ actually means ‘Martial techniques’.
A traditional mind/ body exercise Tai Chi uses slow sets of body movements and controlled breathing and is done to improve balance, flexibility, muscle strength and overall health, it is helpful in achieving physical and mental relaxation while at the same time strengthening the cardiovascular and immune systems.
Besides the overall fitness benefits and stress reduction aspects, regular Tai Chi sessions are said to lower blood pressure and to benefit arthritis sufferers and those recovering from an injury or rehabilitating their hearts.
What you will discover is that attending Tai Chi classes will improve your flexibility and increase your fitness levels, most often without you even realising.
Qigong
The word Qigong is made up of two Chinese words. Qi is pronounced chee and is usually translated to mean the life force or vital-energy that flows through all things in the universe.
The second word Gong, pronounced gung, means accomplishment, or skill that is cultivated through steady practise.
Together, Qigong means cultivating energy, it is a system practised for health maintenance, healing and increasing vitality.
The gentle, rhythmic movements of Qigong reduce stress, build stamina and increase vitality. It has also been found to improve cardiovascular, respiratory, circulatory, lymphatic and digestive functions.
Those who maintain a consistent practice of Qigong find that it helps one regain a youthful vitality and maintain health even into old age.
