|
exercises designed to allow the chi (life energy) to flow freely
throughout the body. This, in turn, reduces tension,
clears the mind, helps blood circulation, improves posture, and promotes good health in many other ways. The central concept of T'ai Chi is that the mind, body, and spirit
must work together to defeat an enemy- and enemies can be violent attackers, physical ailments, or mental illnesses. Chi is developed in most forms of martial arts- called
"ki" (pronounced "key") in Japanese and Korean styles- but is not focused on as much in any style as it is in T'ai Chi. Though the movements of T'ai Chi are an effective
means of self defense in their own right, a practitioner who has studied for a number of years can control her or his chi to the point of being able to use it as a weapon
by "discharging" it into an attacker. This release of power is forceful enough that small women can knock enormous men off their feet without the use of muscular strength.
|
