Tai Chi Quan
1.Introduction:
The Chen, Yang, Wu, Wu (Hao), Sun styles are the five most prevalent styles out of all the Tai Chi schools. Along with Baguazhang and Xing Yi Quan, Tai Chi is one of the three main neijia quan, or internal martial arts, in China. Internal martial arts are styles of martial arts that place emphasis on neigong, or internal breathing and meditative techniques. Consisting mostly of relaxation techniques, Tai Chi focuses on self-defense through counter-attacking and reflecting incoming force. Force and energy exists within Tai Chi’s slow, smooth movements — although they may look gentle, they are executed with immense strength.
2.Categorization:
After a long history of being passed down, Tai Chi Quan has split into a myriad of different sub-schools, including the Five Major Styles: Chen style, Yang style, Sun style, Wu style, and Wu (Hao) style.
3.Taiji Sword:
One of the Four Ancient Weapons in Tai Chi, the taiji sword is a combination of Tai Chi techniques and ancient Chinese swordsmanship. When practicing with the taiji sword, one must have a clear mind and a relaxed body in order to wield the sword naturally and with dexterity.
4.Health Benefits:
Tai Chi stretching excercises can relieve anxiety and stress. For elderly people, practicing Tai Chi in the long term can be beneficial to balance control, flexibility and cardiovascular fitness because of its relatively slow motions.
