Yoga, Tai Chi, and the State of Zen
Some people have a foolish way of not minding, or pretending not to mind, what they eat. For my part, I mind my belly very studiously, and very carefully. For I look upon it, that he who does not mind his belly will hardly mind anything else.–Samuel Johnson (poet, essayist, biographer, lexicographer)
Nowadays, people are so conscious about their health and body figure. Many people regularly visit the gym for weight training, cardiovascular exercise, or to simply have friends who share their passion for fitness. Many fitness gyms offer the latest in weight and cardio-machines. Others specialize in special fitness programs or routines like Pilates, Tae-Bo, Belly Dancing, Hip-Hop Exercises, and even Pole Dancing.
But lately, Yoga and Tai Chi classes have been gaining popularity especially among women and above-40 fitness buffs. These Indian and Chinese methods of meditation and exercise are popular due to the health benefits experienced by those practice them. Many health buffs claim that they now enjoy a stress and anxiety-free lifestyle because of their Tai Chi and Yoga lessons.
Studies show that these kinds of exercise do have beneficial effects on the mind and body. These religious-philosophical movements gave emphasis to the state of Zen. According to Buddhism, the term “zen” refers to the attainment of a stage of “awakening.” This belief was introduced in China by a Buddhist monk named Bodhidharma in A.D. 520. According to studies, people who cling to the teachings of Zen endeavor to achieve “satori” which is also called “nirvana”. “Satori” in general can only be reached through a meditation called “zazen” which, in turn, leads to a state of mushin or “no mind”. Mushin is the ability to see things more clearly mentally. It means that one’s judgment will not be blurred with negative thoughts. Although this belief originated from the south, many Western students and practitioners of Yoga and Tai-Chi are satisfied with the health and vitality it brings. Read more
Healing Benefits Of Tai Chi
Tai chi is pronounced “tie chee” it is a mind-body practice that originated in China as a martial art. Tai Chi is fully known as Tai Chi Chuan and was created by Chang San-Feng, who lived from 1279-1368 AD. Tai Chi evolved from a healing exercise called Qi Gong in the thirteenth century. Tai Chi is different from other martial arts, it emphasizes the flow of energy and the control of breathing over hard mechanical exercise. Tai Chi was a guarded secret in ancient times. Tai chi is a martial art that is primarily practiced for its health benefits, which includes a means for dealing with tension and stress. Tai Chi claims to nurture the total health of our bodies, mind and spirit with one daily practice. Tai Chi benefits both male and female and people of all ages. Tai Chi is practiced in slow, graceful movements. Tai Chi stresses on breathing from the belly, through the feet, with the entire body.
Tai Chi is thought to be helpful on many levels. Tai Chi, which is based on self defense movements and evolved as a physical activity for integrating the mind, body and spirit to function in harmony with the outside world. Read more
