Tai Chi for Back Pain Prevention & Relief
Many back injuries or strains are caused by bending our backs and then twisting, or bending our backs and then lifting. The core muscle work out of tai chi improves the strength of not only core but the lower body muscle groups as well so that we are better able to bend or rotate appropriately at the pelvis instead of twisting or hyper-extending the back.
Tai Chi, The Martial Art
One of the cornerstone principles of tai chi is the concept of yin and yang. The philosophy of yin and yang is an all-encompassing view of how opposites are complimentary. This is a Chinese philosophy and found in many aspects of the culture including martial arts, science, medicine or TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine), philosophy and religion.
Strengthen and Protect Knee Joints with Tai Chi
Muscle imbalance is the root of posture and joint problems. Weakened muscles, poor body mechanics and other imbalances in the body strain joints and muscles. Tai chi combats muscle imbalances with its focus on correct posture and proper alignment of the body during each movement. This protects the joints by strengthening weak supporting muscles.
Five Ways Tai Chi Boosts Mental Health
When we speak of health, it’s common to think primarily of physical health. However, mental and emotional disorders can have a negative impact on quality of life, making it difficult to enjoy daily life. Positive mental and emotional health allows us to be productive, better handle daily stress and reach our full potential.
Five Reasons Tai Chi is Ideal for Older Adults
It’s never too late to begin a tai chi practice. The graceful, gentle movements of the yang style are ideal for older adults with limited mobility. Unlike sports in which our abilities diminish with age, tai chi allows us to continually improve and excel. This gives seniors a sense of accomplishment and pride.
Improving Biomechanics with Tai Chi
If you are dealing with chronic pain stemming from poor body mechanics, it is not too late to correct the problem. A regular tai chi practice can help realign the body, balance muscle use and improve muscle and joint health.
Improve Mental, Emotional and Physical Health with Tai Chi
When you practice tai chi, your mind becomes more focused. Your heart becomes calm. Your muscles are relaxed as you work through controlled movements generated from the core. With continued practice, flexibility and balance are increased. The body, mind and heart are energized, promoting the circulation of qi—vital energy—throughout the body.
Tai Chi Fosters Strong Mental Health
I am a psychiatrist and there is in my view a very close link between Tai Chi concepts and Mental Health. As well I believe there is a very close link between practicing Tai Chi and being mentally healthy.
A Few Tips for Better Taiji Quan
It is very important to understand this artistic aspect of taiji; it leads to a road where taiji becomes a wonderful tool for self-expression and self-discovery, and becomes far more than just a set of exercises.
Tai Chi for Managing Chronic Pain
Instructor May Rahnema together with student Julie Feldman were invited to speak at this Symposium on the topic of pain management through the practice of Tai Chi. The newsletter below includes an article from Julie on the same topic.
6th International Taijiquan Exchange Competition
This year’s competition we have Master Liang Bao Sen, chief instructor from Richmond Hill branch acting as coach for senior student May Rahnema, who competed in Chen Style Tai Chi form, Tai Chi Sword form and Women’s 48 kg Push hands events, winning Gold, Silver and Bronze medals respectively, an astounding result.
China Trip 2010
Besides sightseeing, we also went to some nostalgic places – Sifu’s old residence, his school, and the park where he practiced his martial arts and taichi. He also told us many stories about Guangzhou and his childhood. It seems that we had known Sifu since he was a child.