T’ai Chi Ch’uan
T’ai chi is a Chinese martial arts exercise, rooted in Taoism, and developed by prominent Chinese families centuries ago. Each family had its own forms and postures, which were the basis for self defense techniques. For that reason the details of the exercises were held secret within each family. All forms share some commonality: gentle, slow moving, meditative postures that improve one’s balance, flexibility, and overall health.
The South Asheville T’ai Chi Center offers the Yang (short) form, developed by Cheng Man-ch’ing, and consists of 37 postures. Currently, the beginning and the intermediate levels are taught, encompassing all of the postures.
T’ai chi is noncompetitive and does not require any special uniforms or equipment; students develop at their own pace. People of all ages can experience the benefits of the form, including those with physical limitations. The movements are not physically demanding but require one’s commitment to diligent practice and patience. It’s also a lot of fun to learn something completely new alongside other curious people with their own set of abilities and limitations.