Tai Chi / Qi Gong

Tai chi chuan is usually referred to as tai chi. It is a sophisticated martial art that combines mind, body and qi (which is the relationship between matter, energy and spirit). Tai chi teaches self-defence techniques while producing significant health benefits, including relaxing the mind and body. It has developed a worldwide following among people who have little or no interest in martial art, but instead are interested in its health benefits.

Tai chi training consists of a series of movements known as forms, carried out in a set sequence. Daily practice is essential to gain the full benefits. Tai Chi can be performed in the morning or lunchtime to clear the mind in preparation for the work ahead. It can also be performed in the evening to relax the body and mind and relieve the tension created by a hard day’s work, because focusing the mind solely on the movements of the form helps to bring about a state of mental calm and clarity.

What are the benefits of tai chi

The slow movements of tai chi improve blood circulation by releasing tension. They also loosen the joints, spine and ribs, and massage the internal organs to help keep them healthy. And they prevent energy from stagnating, and redistribute it around the body.

Yang 24-step short form

This tai chi form is a shortened version of the original Yang 108-step form. Because it is shorter it is easier to learn, and as it can be completed in 7 – 12 minutes, it is easy to practice on a regular basis. The form contains all the movements required to exercise all parts of the body, including the shoulders, hips, waist, legs and arms. Participants learn how to move in a gentle and relaxed manner, yet still maintaining the martial arts element for self-defence purposes.

Qigong

Qigong (or chi kung) is a system of exercises for increasing internal energy to improve health and help fight disease. It can also be practised to increase body strength. It is an essential part of Traditional Chinese Medicine and has been part of the Chinese culture for 4,000 years – but its benefits are still relevant in today’s fast-paced world.

Qigong is based on the concept of maintaining energy balance within the body. The whole person, mind body and spirit, are treated as one. Disease is considered an imbalance of the energy within the person, so if you balance the energy, you increase the health of the person (“Create ease and remove disease.” – SiFu Wong Kiew Kit.)

Five-elements qigong

This form of qigong is practiced not only for its general health benefits but also for its specific benefit for the five main organs: the liver, heart, spleen, lungs and kidneys. In Traditional Chinese Medicine these organs relate to the five main elements: liver = wood, heart = fire, spleen = earth, lungs = metal and kidneys = water. Hence, five-elements qigong – in which the gentle movements massage and keep healthy the five organs, while also relaxing the body and mind, and reducing stress and tension.

This form of qigong can be used either to start the day with a relaxed attitude to the tasks ahead, or to calm the mind after work, and facilitate a peaceful night’s sleep.