Note: This post was originally published elsewhere on July 24, 2024
Today, July 24 is International Self-Care Day! As such, I want to highlight some of the ways in which taijiquan is a great practice for self-care.
Health Practice
Taijiquan is an excellent for cultivating physical health. The spiraling movements are designed to increase the flexibility and strength of the tendons, ligaments, fascia, and bones. Doing the forms or practicing applications will very quickly increase cardiovascular health. Various qigong exercises that are part of the taijiquan curriculum will increase lung capacity. Maintaining the proper frame and body structure requires engagement and strength of the thighs.
Martial Art
Taijiquan is primarily a martial art. The movements were designed with that goal in mind, and most of the health benefits will emerge out of proper martial execution. While it is not a martial art that will generally lead to quick results, persistence and training will develop one into a high-level, comprehensive martial artist. The confidence and discipline that comes from honing the applications and associated martial skills can have great benefit to emotional and mental health as well.
Spiritual Practice & Chi Cultivation
Taijiquan is built upon the acknowledgment of chi or qi as an accepted reality. It is designed to increase the flow of qi through the body, and to channel it effectively. Often, if one has a concept of divinity, the experience of qi helps in receiving guidance and empowerment from the divine. Even if there is no concept of divinity, the experience of qi can lead to a greater awareness of oneself and a sense of connection to others, even the universe at large.
Opportunities For Engagement
This is just a high-level overview of some of the benefits that can come from the practice of taijiquan. To experience them for yourself, here are several opportunities to do so:
The Dreamers' Corner 