Tai Chi movements are elegant, gentle, slow, contributing both to the practitioner's inner and outer balance, as well as the viewer's aesthetic pleasure. These gestures aim to elongate the muscles, strengthening them through elasticity and in doing so making the practitioner more flexible as well as resilient. Breathing, then, should be done from the belly (also known as diaphragmatic breathing), not the chest. Even conscientiously belly breathing a mere 30 times per day can help soothe your health, and soul, through the release of free radicals in your body that will take place, said Wang. As far as the mind goes, one should always remember to let the mind precede the movement. Your mind can exercise a conscious control over your body; let it lead the way.

Wrapping up his lecture, Wang insisted we all take away at least one lesson from China's traditional Tai Chi culture and apply it in our hasty daily lives, namely the following:

"Our modern lifestyle isn't healthy; it's too fast. Talk slower, eat slower... Just slow down."

The audience gets into the swing of things with Wang Xiaojun as its devoted and hands-on master.

Go to Forum >>0 Comment(s)