Tai Chi was developed as a martial art by Chang San-Feng, who lived in the 14th century. He observed the movements of fauna and flora and their unique movements, such as the Crane and and the snake. He conclude that most martial arts movements were too vigorous, too violent and relied to heavily on physical strength. He created Tai Chi as a new meditative martial art that relied on internal Chi po
wer and the Taoist belief that yielding overcomes aggression and softness overpowers hardness. These movements are performed in graceful, slow motion with smooth transitions. Tai Chi is practiced by millions of people around the world every day. Yang, Wu and Chen are the most well- known styles, and named after the families who created them. Of these, the Yang style is the most popular. The simplified Yang style 24 movements is the easiest form of Tai Chi to learn and the most accessible to people of all ages and physical abilities. For most practitioners today, the focus is on health and longevity. Tai Chi encourages the circulation of Chi within the body, thus enhancing health and vitality. Some of the main health benefits include, a lower and more regular blood pressure, reduced stress levels, improved sleep, emotional and mental relaxation, enhanced brain function, core muscle strengthening and flexibility, improved blood, lymph, joint, brain and spinal fluids flow and lastly, increases Chi flow and promotes longevity. "Yang style 24 Movements" for beginners consists of 24 movements, two of which, are taught per class, and that are easy and simple to learn, regardless of your age or physical ability. Therefore a full 12 classes will be needed to learn the complete form, and can be practiced and utilized daily for life, whether indoors or outdoors. Classes are held on a Monday and Wednesday morning from 8am to 9am at the main entrance to Safa Park. Classes are also held on a Tuesday morning at Studio Fitness at JBR, from 9am to 10am. Evening classes are held on a Sunday evening between 8pm and 9pm at my studio in Al Safa 1. "In every human heart, there is a Book of Truth, bound with worn-out strings and torn bamboo papers. In every human heart, there is also a Symphony of Nature, drowned out by sensual song and voluptuous dance. A man must sweep away all externals and search his inner being in order to experience joy. " - A Chinese Garden of Serenity by Chao Tze-Chiang.
