Many people in the West have seen Tai Chi on television, during films or documentaries about China or Hong Kong; however they may not have recognized It. Tai Chi is a system of meditation in movement, practiced for health and vitality, for relaxation and awareness, natural balance and self defense. It is usually practiced as though in slow motion - the gentle flowing and continuous movements, bringing harmony to the body and mind. The system is suitable for men and women of all ages. It is non-competitive, teaching us to realize our limitations and not to use force.

Origins
There are many stories concerning the origins of Tai Chi, the most common and accepted one is as follows;
In the l3th Century a Taoist hermit, Chang San Feng from Wu Tang Mountain was disturbed during his meditation by a fight between a snake and a crane. The snake was evading the cranes sharp beak by swaying its body this way and that, so that by yielding to the beak and the crushing wings of the bird, no force could be applied against it. Through contemplation of this simple episode, Chang realized that the soft weak and yielding (Yin) actions of the snake overcame the strength and direct force (Yang) of the bird, which became tired through effort and force and finally gave up the struggle. By remaining relaxed the snake could read the movements of the bird and so move naturally to avoid what was coming. In terms of meditation, this means trying to find out what makes us separate from other beings. What takes us away from harmony so that we have to use force in trying to overcome obstacles in our path.
Having understood this Chang then incorporated his realization into a set of movements based on the martial arts. It was this synthesis of the martial arts and meditation, movement and relaxation for mind, body and spirit, which has made Tai Chi one of the most practiced forms of exercise in the world

By increasing the body"s energy flow; regular practice of Tai Chi Chuan can ward off sickness and disease. In China It Is well known for it"s healing powers and is often prescribed by Doctors In conjunction with other treatments, or when other methods fail. The continuous movements of the Form, relaxes and loosens the muscles and joints, which can help alleviate or prevent Illness"s such as arthritis. It stimulates blood circulation, helping to control blood pressure, builds stability in the legs and improves balance. The practice straightens the spine and strengthens the lower back. The soft turning and bending, massages the internal organs. Tai Chi helps focus the mind, calm the emotions and relax the body, it is beneficial to both mental and physical health. Tai Chi practiced every day puts us In touch with our inner strength, giving a quality of deep beauty and meaning to life.

Physical Benefits:

Improved Reflexes 
Coordination 
Increases your performance in all activities! 
Increased Strength & Stamina 
Boosts your energy so you feel great all day long! 
Increased Flexibility & Ballance
Weight Control 
Improves concentration, aiding better work and study habits! 
Great Cardiovascular Work Out 
Keeps you healthy!

Mental Benefits:

Improved Concentration - For better work and study habits! 
Reduced Stress - For a longer and healthier life! 
Increased Confidence and Discipline

Why choose Tai Chi and Qigong.?
Are they appropriate for me?

The principles and exercises of Tai Chi and Qigong can be practiced anywhere at anytime. Sitting at an office desk, car journeys, during meetings, beginning our day or before bed.

No special equipment is needed. Just five to ten minutes of regular daily practice can be immensely beneficial.

The practice and principles are accessible and entirely safe for anyone to use irrespective of age or ability. Safe because we learn to recognize and adhere to our personal, ‘soft limit’, both mentally and physically. Safe because there is no dependency upon any external requirement and the range of movements are undertaken thoughtfully and slowly.

Specific programs can be designed to meet individual needs, body type, personality and medical conditions.

Once we start to discover and feel the benefits there is a typical inclination to deepen our understanding of Tai Chi and lengthen the time we allocate to practice.

When this occurs it indicates that we have engaged with our, ‘spirit of vitality’. Reaching this stage, it’s likely that we will continue with some form of Qigong, Tai Chi exercise for the rest of our lives.

First of all Tai Chi is not of religion or cult. People get this misconception largely due to the Yin Yang symbol that most Tai Chi clubs use in their advertising or display on their uniform.