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Tai Chi and Its Essential Elements
1 The Ancient Promise of, and Modern Need for, Tai Chi
Tai Chi is a mind-body exercise rooted in multiple Asian traditions, including martial arts, traditional Chinese medicine, and philosophy. Tai Chi training integrates slow, intentional movements with breathing and cognitive skills (for example, mindfulness and imagery). It aims to strengthen, relax, and integrate the physical body and mind, enhance the natural flow of Qi, and improve health, personal development, and self-defense. (Location 381)
Among the most common styles today are the Chen, Yang, Wu, Hao, and Sun. Each of these five styles is named after the founder’s family name. (Location 485)