People often wonder what the point is behind Tai Chi; they might have heard about health benefits but then figure they could do just as well on bran flakes. The answer is that the process of personal cultivation offered by Tai Chi changes people in innumerable ways, many of which will often be too subtle for people to notice. And then there are the less subtle ways which are very noticeable.
Since taking up Tai Chi I’ve found that my driving has improved because of finding it easier to look round. I also don’t need to hold on to anything if I’m stood up on the train, greater stability can be provided by simply bending the knees and sinking. And I’ve found it easier to stay relaxed at the dentist, though it could be that some more experience is needed to really crack this one.
I think that benefits can be accrued from other art forms as well, for example chess. It cultivates the ability to concentrate, spatial awareness, imagination, self-discipline and fosters values such as a sense of justice, getting what one deserves. Not bad for an ancient board game.
Copyright Nigel Davies, 2008. All rights reserved.
