Tai Chi for Body, Mind and Spi

T'ai chi chuan may literally mean "the ultimate way of the fist," but you don't have to be in fighting form to experience its multitude of benefits. It's an ancient art that demands skill and discipline, facilitates relaxation, and promotes awareness of the body and its energy flow. With its historical and practical perspectives, and wonderful archive illustrations (including Chinese engravings and watercolors), this handbook irresistibly draws you into the world and atmosphere of t'ai chi. What changes can you expect to experience when you start this course? T'ai chi calms brain processes, respiratory and pulse rates, and emotions. It shifts the mind from stress-related thoughts; improves use and coordination of muscles and joints; slows down the aging process; releases positive, controlled energy; reduces or eliminates the need for drugs; enhances performance in work and leisure, and aids sleep. Start by cultivating internal energy with chi kung, a related but even older form of martial art that t'ai chi has incorporated. It involves slow, sometimes completely static exercises, including sitting in meditation. Because stillness and inner focus are such essential elements in Taoist philosophy, and a key to complete relaxation, you'll also investigate the principles behind wu-wei--"doing nothing" or "letting be." An entire program (over 100 pages) of tai'chi exercises follows, all designed to encourage positive energy flow and mental well-being. Each exercise or sequence has step-by-step photographs with detailed captions, and tip boxes highlighting common faults and how to avoid them. Simple, repetitive introductory movements help you become accustomed to the technique befor