What Is Tai Chi?
Tai Chi Chuan (pronounced "tie chee chwan", meaning Grand Ultimate Fist) can trace its origins back to Mainland China over 3,000 years ago. Its movements were originally executed with speed to develop strength and coordination. One theory is that it was created by the wandering monk, Zhang Seng Feng,when his meditation in a garden was interrupted by a fight between a snake and a crane.
He watched as the animals fought and defended themselves in beautiful, graceful and skillful ways. Zhang Seng Feng practiced these moves tirelessly.
While practicing, he discovered that his health, strength and spirit improved tremendously.
He, then in turn, taught monks who needed to defend themselves from wandering marauders. Over the years, as each generation practiced Tai Chi , its movements became slower and evolved into the meditative, mind/body/health system which you are so familiar with today.
What Is Qi Gong?
Qi Gong (pronounced "chee gong", "ki gong" or "gee gong", meaning Energy Work) can trace its origins as far as 5,000 years ago and began as a system of breathing techniques and movements designed to promote longevity and improve and maintain one's health.
The ancient emperors of China strived for immortality so they commanded their doctors to create the very best elixers that would deliver this promise.The doctors created a system of medicine that included acupuncture, herbal medicine and Qi Gong exercises that would alleviated their ailments and increase their general health.
This system was called Classical Chinese Medicine.
Today, millions all over the world use this system of medicine either alone or as a complement to western medical treatments.
What Is the Difference Between Tai Chi And Qi Gong?
The essential difference is that unless there was a specific school of "martial" Qi Gong requested and taught, Tai Chi began as a martial art and Qi Gong was developed by Chinese doctors as a form of medicine designed to work in concert with Classical Chinese Medicine; acupuncture and herbs.
However, one does practice Qi Gong when one practices Tai Chi.
According to a study done by the Mayo Clinic, consistent practice of Tai Chi and Qi Gong may:
reduce stress
slow bone loss
increase strength
lower blood pressure
improve coordination
increase flexibility
reduce the number of falls
alleviate arthritis
improve sleep quality
aid in recovery from injury
promote general well-being
Link to the Mayo Clinic reference:
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/tai-chi/SA00087
Note: There are hundreds of "schools" of Tai Chi and Qi Gong movements taught. To truly experience the benefits of either system, it is important to study for a period of time in the presence of an Instructor and with other Students. It is almost impossible to gain the subtleties, nuances and "correctness" of Tai Chi and Qi Gong from a book or video.
