Tai Chi

Tai chi (tie chee), a mind-body practice that originated in China as a martial art in about the 12th Century, is believed to aid the flow of vital energy, or qi, throughout the body. A person doing tai chi, sometimes called "moving meditation," moves his body slowly and gently while breathing deeply and meditating. Some movements are named for animals or birds, such as "White Crane Spreads Its Wings."

The simplest style of tai chi uses 13 movements and more complex styles can have dozens. In tai chi, it is considered important to concentrate, put aside distracting thoughts and breathe in a deep, relaxed and focused manner. It is believed tai chi might support organ health, digestive system functioning, mental state and balance. For overall health, tai chi could provide many benefits, including aerobic exercise, improved strength, aid for arthritis symptoms and improved sleep.

(SOURCE: NCCAM, National Institutes of Health)