Lee Style T’ai Chi, as taught by Chee Soo, emphasizes the development of internal energy and relaxation through slow, flowing movements. Here are some tips to help you improve your practice of Lee Style T’ai Chi:
Learn the Basics: Lee Style T’ai Chi has a specific set of movements and principles that are essential to mastering the art. Take the time to learn the basics from a qualified instructor who has experience teaching this style.
Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key to improving your T’ai Chi skills. Aim to practice for at least 15-30 minutes a day, preferably at the same time each day. This will help you develop a routine and make it easier to stick to your practice.
Focus on Internal Energy: Lee Style T’ai Chi emphasizes the cultivation of internal energy, or chi, which is believed to flow through the body’s energy channels. Focus on breathing deeply and smoothly, and imagine your breath moving through your body, filling it with energy.
Pay Attention to Your Posture: Good posture is essential to performing T’ai Chi movements correctly. Make sure your spine is straight, your shoulders are relaxed, and your weight is balanced evenly between your feet.
Incorporate Meditation: Meditation can help you develop the mental focus and concentration needed to perform T’ai Chi movements correctly. Try incorporating a few minutes of meditation into your practice, either before or after your T’ai Chi routine.
Seek Out Additional Resources: There are many resources available to help you improve your Lee Style T’ai Chi practice, including books, videos, and online courses. Consider supplementing your in-person instruction with additional resources to deepen your understanding of the art.
By following these tips and working with a qualified instructor, you can improve your Lee Style T’ai Chi practice and experience the many benefits of this ancient martial art.
Tai Chi is a highly beneficial practice that has gained immense popularity in recent years due to its low-impact, meditative nature. A plethora of peer-reviewed studies conducted over the past two decades have demonstrated its numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits. Although Tai Chi is widely known for its stress-reducing and relaxation-promoting properties, its benefits extend far beyond these aspects. This blog post aims to delve deeper into the science behind Tai Chi by examining the extensive research and evidence supporting its advantages as an ancient practice.
Physical Benefits of Tai Chi
Tai Chi is widely recognized for its significant positive impact on physical health. As a low-impact form of exercise, Tai Chi can be practiced by people of all ages and fitness levels. It has been shown to enhance cardiovascular health, balance, flexibility, and muscle strength through a range of scientific studies.
One such study 1, published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, demonstrated that practicing Tai Chi for six months resulted in a 47% decrease in the risk of falls among older adults. Similarly, another study 2 published in the Journal of Gerontology showed that Tai Chi improved balance and leg strength in a group of elderly women.
Moreover, Tai Chi has been found to benefit individuals suffering from chronic conditions, including arthritis, heart disease, and chronic pain. A study 3 published in the Journal of Rheumatology indicated that Tai Chi significantly improved pain, function, and quality of life for those with knee osteoarthritis. Another study published in the journal Heart 4 revealed that Tai Chi enhanced cardiovascular health in individuals with heart failure.
Mental and Emotional Benefits of Tai Chi
Tai Chi is a practice that offers not only physical benefits but also numerous mental and emotional benefits. This ancient Chinese martial art has been known to promote relaxation and reduce stress, making it a popular choice for people seeking emotional well-being.
Empirical studies have found Tai Chi to be an effective means of achieving mental and emotional wellness. For instance, a study 5 published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research reported that practicing Tai Chi for 12 weeks reduced symptoms of depression in older adults. Another study 6 published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that Tai Chi improved mood and reduced anxiety in individuals with heart disease.
Furthermore, Tai Chi has been shown to improve cognitive function and memory, making it an appealing practice for older adults. In a study 7 published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, it was found that practicing Tai Chi for 20 weeks significantly improved cognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment.
Therefore, the benefits of Tai Chi extend beyond the physical realm and into the mental and emotional domains. Empirical evidence shows that Tai Chi is an effective practice for achieving mental and emotional well-being, making it a valuable addition to one’s wellness routine.
The Science of Tai Chi: How It Works
So, how does Tai Chi work to provide these benefits? There are several mechanisms including:
Tai Chi can improve overall health and well-being by increasing blood flow to the muscles and organs including the brain through slow, deliberate movements and deep breathing. Deep breathing also enriches the blood with increased amounts of oxygen.
Practicing Tai Chi fosters a strong mind-body connection through a focus on breath and body movements, resulting in reduced stress and improved relaxation.
Tai Chi movements and partner exercises like sticky hands improve posture and balance, reducing the risk of falls and improving physical health.
Tai Chi can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression by lowering cortisol levels, as shown in research studies 8.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try Tai Chi
The science supporting the benefits of Tai Chi is well-established, making it a practice that can benefit people of all ages and fitness levels, whether they are looking to improve physical health, reduce stress and anxiety, or try something new.
If you are interested in trying Tai Chi, there are various options available to you. Look for a local Tai Chi club or community center that offers classes, and make sure to choose a qualified instructor with experience in teaching beginners.
Besides attending classes, you can practice Tai Chi at home using instructional videos or books. Remember to start slowly and increase your practice’s intensity gradually over time.
Overall, Tai Chi offers numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits. By incorporating Tai Chi into your daily routine, you can improve your overall health and well-being and enjoy a more relaxed, balanced, and fulfilling life.
References
[1] Li, F., Harmer, P., Fitzgerald, K., Eckstrom, E., Akers, L., Chou, L. S., & Pidgeon, D. (2012). Tai Chi and postural stability in patients with Parkinson’s disease. New England Journal of Medicine, 366(6), 511-519. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3285459/
[2] Song, R., Lee, E. O., Lam, P., Bae, S. C., & Park, Y. J. (2003). Effects of tai chi exercise on pain, balance, muscle strength, and perceived difficulties in physical functioning in older women with osteoarthritis: a randomized clinical trial. The Journal of rheumatology, 30(9), 2039-2044. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12966613/
[3] Wang, C., Schmid, C. H., Fielding, R. A., Harvey, W. F., Reid, K. F., Price, L. L., … & McAlindon, T. (2016). Effect of tai chi versus aerobic exercise for fibromyalgia: comparative effectiveness randomized controlled trial. BMJ, 354, i3893. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29563100/
[4] Yeh, G. Y., McCarthy, E. P., Wayne, P. M., Stevenson, L. W., & Wood, M. J. (2011). Tai chi exercise in patients with chronic heart failure: a randomized clinical trial. Archives of internal medicine, 171(8), 750-757. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21518942/
[5] Lavretsky, H., Alstein, L. L., Olmstead, R. E., Ercoli, L. M., Riparetti-Brown, M., Cyr, N. S., … & Irwin, M. R. (2011). Complementary use of tai chi chih augments escitalopram treatment of geriatric depression: a randomized controlled trial. The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 19(10), 839-850. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21358389/
[6] Yeh, G. Y., Wang, C., Wayne, P. M., Phillips, R. S., & Tai, C. (2013). Tai chi exercise for patients with cardiovascular conditions and risk factors: a systematic review. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 61(3), 253-262. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19471133/
[7] Lam, L. C., Chau, R. C., Wong, B. M., Fung, A. W., Tam, C. C., Leung, G. T., … & Chan, W. M. (2011). A 1-year randomized controlled trial comparing mind-body exercise (Tai Chi) with stretching and toning exercise on cognitive function in older Chinese adults at risk of cognitive decline. Journal of the American Medical Directors Association, 12(4), 336-341. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22579072/
[8] Lee, M. S., Pittler, M. H., & Ernst, E. (2007). Tai chi for osteoarthritis: a systematic review. Clinical Rheumatology, 26(3), 389-396. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17874172/
Tai chi is an ancient Chinese martial art that has become increasingly popular around the world in recent years. It is a low-impact, gentle exercise that involves slow and flowing movements, which are designed to promote balance, flexibility, and relaxation. Tai chi is an effective form of exercise for people of all ages and fitness levels, and it has numerous health benefits that go beyond just physical fitness. In this blog post, we will explore the top ten reasons why you should practice tai chi, and how this ancient martial art can improve your overall health and well-being.
1. Improves Balance and Coordination
One of the main benefits of tai chi is that it helps to improve balance and coordination. The slow and flowing movements of tai chi help to train the body to maintain proper balance, which can be especially beneficial for older adults who are at risk of falls. Tai chi can also help to improve coordination, which can have a positive impact on a wide range of physical activities, from sports to everyday tasks like walking and climbing stairs.
2. Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Tai chi is often described as a moving meditation, and for good reason. The slow and deliberate movements of tai chi are accompanied by deep breathing and a focus on the present moment, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety. Regular practice of tai chi has been shown to lower levels of cortisol, the hormone that is released in response to stress and can lead to improved mood and a greater sense of overall well-being.
3. Increases Flexibility and Range of Motion
Another major benefit of tai chi is that it can help to increase flexibility and range of motion. The slow and flowing movements of tai chi are designed to gently stretch and lengthen the muscles, which can help to improve overall flexibility. Regular practice of tai chi can also help to increase the range of motion in the joints, which can be especially beneficial for people with conditions like arthritis.
4. Improves Cardiovascular Health
Tai chi is a low-impact exercise that can still provide cardiovascular benefits. The slow and deliberate movements of tai chi can help to improve circulation and lower blood pressure, which can have a positive impact on overall cardiovascular health. Tai chi has also been shown to improve cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
5. Boosts Immune System Function
Tai chi has been shown to have a positive impact on immune system function. Regular practice of tai chi has been linked to increased production of T-cells, which are a type of white blood cell that helps to fight off infection. Tai chi has also been shown to reduce inflammation in the body, which can have a positive impact on overall immune system function.
6. Helps to Manage Chronic Pain
Tai chi can be an effective form of exercise for people who suffer from chronic pain. The slow and gentle movements of tai chi can help to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and increase flexibility, all of which can help to manage chronic pain. Tai chi has been shown to be particularly effective for people with conditions like fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis.
7. Improves Sleep Quality
Tai chi can help to improve sleep quality, which is essential for overall health and well-being. Regular practice of tai chi has been linked to improved sleep quality and a reduction in sleep disturbances. Tai chi can also help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can contribute to better sleep.
8. Increases Energy and Stamina
Despite its slow and gentle movements, tai chi can actually be quite invigorating. Regular practice of tai chi can help to increase energy and stamina, which can have a positive impact on overall fitness levels. Tai chi has also been shown to improve lung function and aerobic capacity.
9. Enhances Mental Clarity and Focus
Tai chi can help to enhance mental clarity and focus. The slow and meditative movements of tai chi require concentration and mindfulness, which can help to clear the mind and improve focus. Regular practice of tai chi has been shown to improve cognitive function, including memory and attention span. Tai chi has also been used as a form of meditation to promote a deeper sense of inner peace and mental clarity.
10. Provides a Sense of Community
Finally, one of the lesser-known benefits of tai chi is that it provides a sense of community. Tai chi classes are often taught in groups, which can provide a sense of social support and a shared sense of purpose. Tai chi can also be a great way to meet new people and make friends. Practicing tai chi with others can be a fun and rewarding experience, and can help to keep you motivated to continue with your practice.
In conclusion, tai chi is a powerful and effective form of exercise that has numerous health benefits. From improving balance and coordination to reducing stress and anxiety, tai chi can help to improve your overall health and well-being. Whether you are looking to improve your physical fitness, manage chronic pain, or enhance mental clarity and focus, tai chi is a great choice. So why not give it a try? Come and join our Coventry Tai Chi class or have a look at our online videos and start experiencing the benefits of this ancient martial art for yourself.
Chee Soo at the Summer Course 1990 Alderman Callow School, Coventry
Chee Soo was a renowned teacher of Tai Chi, Feng Shou Kung Fu, and Ancient Chinese Medicine who came to live in Canley, Coventry in 1980 and established his club in Alderman Callow School in Canley, near the University of Warwick. He also had a class in Leamington Spa. Chee Soo’s teachings attracted students of Tai Chi and the related Taoist arts from all over the world, and his students have gone on to set up Tai Chi classes in the Midlands area and around the UK.
Chee Soo’s Background
Chee Soo was born in Marleybone, London in 1919. He was orphaned as a child, and he began studying the Taoist Arts at the age of 14 when he met his teacher Chan Lee, a Chinese trader in precious stones from Weihaiwei in Shandong, China. He also trained in martial arts, particularly Tai Chi and Feng Shou Kung Fu.
Chee Soo’s Teachings
Chee Soo taught weapons forms
Chee Soo’s teachings were based on the Taoist principles of Yin and Yang and the Five Elements, as well as the I Ching, the Book of Changes. He believed that Tai Chi and Feng Shou Kung Fu were not just physical exercises but also spiritual practices that could help people achieve balance and harmony in their lives.
In addition to teaching Tai Chi and Feng Shou Kung Fu, Chee Soo was also a practitioner of Chinese medicine. He believed that the body and mind were interconnected and that illness was caused by imbalances in the body’s energy, or Qi. He used a variety of techniques, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, and energy meridian massage to restore balance and promote healing.
Chee Soo in Coventry
Chee Soo and Marilyn in the Coventry Evening Telegraph
Chee Soo moved to Coventry in 1980 and established his club in Alderman Callow School. He also had a class at the Oddfellows Hall in Leamington Spa. His classes were attended by people from all over the Midlands area and beyond, and he taught courses that covered a range of topics, including Tai Chi, Feng Shou Kung Fu, and Chinese medicine. He was the author of several best-selling books about the various aspects of the Taoist Arts of Tai Chi, Kung Fu and Chinese Medicine.
Chee Soo’s teachings were particularly popular with people who were interested in holistic health and spiritual practices. He believed that Tai Chi and Feng Shou Kung Fu were not just physical exercises but also spiritual practices that could help people achieve balance and harmony in their lives. He encouraged his students to cultivate a deep understanding of the principles behind the movements, rather than just memorizing the forms.
Chee Soo’s Legacy
Chee Soo’s teachings have had a lasting impact on the Tai Chi and Feng Shou Kung Fu communities in the UK and beyond. Many of his students have gone on to set up their own Tai Chi clubs and teach his methods to others. Some of his students have even become teachers of Chinese medicine, using the techniques that he taught them to help others achieve balance and harmony in their lives.
Today, the Coventry Tai Chi Club continues to teach Chee Soo’s methods to new generations of students. The club offers a range of classes, from beginners’ courses to advanced training for experienced practitioners. The club also hosts workshops and seminars with guest teachers from around the country, providing opportunities for students to deepen their knowledge and expand their skills.
Conclusion
Chee Soo was a teacher of Tai Chi, Feng Shou Kung Fu, and Chinese medicine who came to Coventry in 1980 and established his club in Alderman Callow School in Canley, near the University of Warwick. His teachings were based on the Taoist principles of Yin and Yang and the Five Elements, as well as the I Ching, the Book of Changes. His classes were attended by people from all over the Midlands area and beyond, and his students have gone on to set up Tai Chi classes in the Midlands and around the UK, spreading Chee Soo’s teachings even further.
Chee Soo’s emphasis on the spiritual aspect of Tai Chi and Feng Shou Kung Fu has made his teachings particularly appealing to those interested in holistic health and spiritual practices. His focus on cultivating a deep understanding of the principles behind the movements, rather than just memorizing the forms, has helped his students to achieve a greater level of skill and insight.
The Coventry Tai Chi Club continues to carry on Chee Soo’s legacy by teaching his methods to new generations of students. The club offers a welcoming and supportive environment for people of all ages and abilities to learn and practice Tai Chi. Whether you are looking to improve your physical health, reduce stress, or deepen your spiritual practice, the Coventry Tai Chi Club has something to offer.
In addition to regular classes, the club also hosts workshops and seminars with guest teachers from around the country, providing opportunities for students to learn from a variety of perspectives and deepen their knowledge and skills. The club also participates in events and demonstrations throughout the year, sharing Tai Chi and Feng Shou Kung Fu with the wider community.
If you are interested in learning more about Tai Chi, Feng Shou Kung Fu, or Chinese medicine, the Coventry Tai Chi Club is a great place to start. With a rich history of teaching and a welcoming community of practitioners, the club offers a unique opportunity to learn one of the most popular Tai Chi styles.
