-IBIS-1.5.0-
rx
traditions
Tai Qi as a healing art
psychospiritual approaches

definition

T'ai Chi Ch'uan is one of the few 'internal' systems of martial arts (another is Chi Kung). It consists of a traditional series of movements that are intended to unite body and mind. T'ai Chi promotes health and longevity, and in China is often prescribed by doctors in conjunction with other treatments or when other methods have failed. It strengthens without strain by the process of constant change - from action to relaxation. The gentle nature of T'ai Chi makes it suitable for the weak, old, infirm, or very young, as well as for those who enjoy excellent health.

Increased muscle tone improves circulation of the blood and lymph systems, vital to the maintenance of health. By opening the joints, especially the knees, T'ai Chi often alleviates and cures arthritis and rheumatism. It strengthens the lower back and straightens the spine. The slow, soft turning and bending massages the inner organs, and the gentle leg raising movements strengthen the intestines and aid elimination. By calming the body/mind, it often relieves ulcers and nervous disorders. Deepened breathing supplies more oxygen to the blood and brain. The blood vessels become open and flexible, allowing the heart to function more smoothly.

By increasing the body's energy flow and strengthening resistance, regular practice can ward off sickness and contagious disease. Similarly, chronic afflictions of the organs are often cured as energetic blocks are dissipated and energy flow is restored. Although T'ai Chi appears soft, passive, and 'yin' as an exercise, it actually has very strengthening, yang effects on the body/mind. This is partly due to the stimulation of one's kidney (life force) energy, which in turn supplies energy to all the internal organs. Once the body becomes sensitive to this energy flow, health becomes the continuance of this vitality for the body, mind, and spirit; the embodiment of the essence of the natural world. The movements in T'ai Chi are taken from nature, and thus the practice of T'ai Chi restores contact with the natural world - internally, externally, and spiritually.
(Bliss, (Shandor Weiss), p. 351-352)

see:
attitudinal healing
Ayurvedic healing
compassion and healing
healing belief systems
healing power of humor
healing power of meditation
healing power of prayer
holographic consciousness
human energy fields: overview
Kahuna healing
mind beyond body
Native American healing
psychic healing
quantum healing
search for god
state-dependent learning
Sufi healing
the shadow and physical symptoms
yogic view of the human body


footnotes