Today we live in a world that is more stressful than ever, and mind, body and soul retreats are very popular, where people can get away from the stresses and strains of everyday life. One of the most popular of the growing number of mind, body and soul retreats is Tai Chi. Tai Chi is a non-strenuous art that is suitable for everyone - young, old, fit, or not so fit. This is due to its gentle nature and this has been the cornerstone of its growth in popularity. An Intensive Enjoyable Introduction to Tai Chi Tai Chi is a practice of meditation within movement - a series of movements performed in a slow relaxed and harmonized way and is the Taoist Path to mental, physical, and spiritual well being. Tai Chi retreats act as an ideal introduction to this ancient art and aim to combine the basics of the art with a short holiday. This intensive style of introduction allows pupils to learn more quickly than at a weekly class and derive a greater understanding of the art. Settings Most Tai chi retreats offer sessions in relaxing and scenic surroundings to enhance the overall affect of Tai Chi. A mix of water, woodland and peaceful, spacious areas are typical scenes that Tai Chi retreats try to use, so that the venue makes learning a pleasure and a joy. What Will You Learn? Any introduction to Tai Chi will focus on the proper presentation of "the form" the basis of all the different types of Tai Chi. Each Tai Chi style has its own distinctive way of presenting the form in terms of: . The postures included. . The order in which they appear. . The way they are performed. . How long the form actually takes to complete. Although the different styles of Tai Chi present the form in different ways, the purpose and the philosophy behind them is the same - to revitalize mind, body and soul. The Benefits of Tai Chi Tai Chi does the following: Stimulates circulation. Aligns the skeleton and joints. Stimulates the organs of the body. Helps digestion. Improves muscle tone and strength. Improves balance and co ordination. Improves breathing. Tai Chi does not just provide physical benefits - Tai Chi also focuses thought, so that mind and body energy work together as one. People find that they are not just physically fitter but, more alert more creative and generally happier. Combining the above with a holiday gives you relaxation as well as health benefits - this is what Tai Chi holidays are all about. Choosing the Right Tai Chi Retreat There are many Tai Chi holidays and you should consider the following when selecting one: The retreat location What are the facilities? What is the background of the instructors? What is the schedule? What will you learn? Are the exercises performed outside or inside? All the above are obvious questions, but to get the most from your holiday make sure that you have good instruction, in surroundings you are comfortable with and using a schedule that suits you. Any reputable Tai Chi teacher will be pleased to answer any questions you may have and give you all the background information you need, to make your holiday one you will never forget. |
