Tai Chi Chuan

by Mark Conway
(Wayne, US)

I have been studying martial arts and looking into many popular types of meditation since I was in third grade, and Tai Chi Chuan has proven to be the best out of everything I have tried. Contrary to most of the other Chinese martial arts that are known for their speed and power, Tai Chi is a martial art that focuses on healing through slow, graceful movements.

I learned this style of martial arts a few years ago, when my friend told me he was teaching a martial arts club at our high school and invited me to join. After weeks of reviewing Taekwondo and Brazilian Jujitsu, he decided to change things up and taught the class the Wu style of Tai Chi Chuan.

He started out demonstrating the steps, and I was sceptical at first. To me, it looked like little more than dancing in slow motion. However, when he broke it down for us and started teaching us step-by-step, it quickly became interesting, and I became determined to learn the whole routine.

Tai Chi is Designed to Reduce Stress

Many people dismiss Tai Chi thinking it's a waste of time - not realizing that these styles designed by ancient Chinese martial artists have been proven through modern science to reduce stress and improve breathing and blood circulation - results that I could actually feel every time I go through the steps.

Tai Chi Gets Rid of My Impatience

Another thing I like about Tai Chi is it helps overcome my impatience. I have difficulties sitting still listening to relaxing music for instance. But in Tai Chi, you move around, focusing on the motions and the rest happens naturally.

It also builds confidence; the stances are firm and make you feel empowered.

I would definitely recommend it to anyone who studies any form of martial arts or mediation. And anyone who may be interested to start.