Tai Chi is Meditation in Motion
Tai Chi is Meditation in Motion which many People have been practising for thousands of years to move beyond stressful thoughts and emotions. Try to find clarity in the present moment. The variety of meditation techniques, traditions, and technologies is fast. But the essence of meditation is singular. Is the cultivation of mindful awareness and expanded consciousness.
People are drawn to meditation for many different reasons. Some begin meditating because of a doctor’s recommendation. Seeking health benefits of lowered blood pressure, stress reduction, and restful sleep. Some seek relief from fear, anger and painful thoughts. Still, others come to meditation to find greater self-understanding. To increase their intuitive powers or to improve their ability to concentrate.
Corporations are now adding mindfulness programs for employees. A great example of this is Google with its “Search Inside Yourself” program. Developed to help with emotional intelligence training.
Movement meditation is ideal when we feel energetic. Some people are so vigorous or restless that they cannot use sitting meditation. thus, moving meditation is a productive alternative.
“Knowing others is intelligence; knowing yourself is true wisdom. Mastering others is strength; mastering yourself is true power. – Lao Tzu”
Here are just a few of the benefits
- Relief from stress and anxiety (meditation mitigates the effects of the “fight-or-flight” response, decreasing the production of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline)
- Improve emotional intelligence to become more successful in the workplace through self-awareness
- Decreased blood pressure and hypertension
- Lower cholesterol levels
- More efficient oxygen use by the body
- Increased production of the anti-ageing hormone DHEA
- Restful sleep
Besides the health benefits of Tai Chi, you also harness thousands of years of meditation tradition and practice.
A variety of studies have shown the benefits of moving meditation practices. For example, a study of seniors in Shanghai suggested that Tai Chi increases brain size and boosts memory. And may delay dementia. Studies show benefits, including boosting immunity, and sexual performance, easing migraines and helping with insomnia.
Try this: Sign up for a tai chi class. Or if you practice one of these art forms? Simply set an intention to turn your next session into a moving meditation. Find a quiet space that’s free from distractions and focus on the sensation of every movement.