T'ai chi is an ancient method of moving in the most coordinated, relaxed, and integrated manner possible. Learning to move in this graceful and relaxed style brings benefits to a person's whole being by improving relaxation and energy flow. It developed as a martial art and this martial focus helps bring clarity to the movements even when practicing for health benefits.

The classic texts continually refer to t'ai chi as a "peerless art" because it was considered to have no equal when pursued and studied as a martial art. Another way of viewing the discipline of t'ai chi is as the art of internal cultivation. This internal cultivation of mechanics, focus, and energy brings true power allowing you to be in harmony and balance with your life. In addition, the regular practice of t'ai chi opens up the reality that relaxation is the secret to power, and stress reduction.

When you perform the movements of t'ai chi correctly, it is like you are watering a plant. When a plant receives water, it is able to photosynthesize sunlight into energy and grow. So it is with t'ai chi. It is like an essential element. When you move in the most integrated and relaxed way possible, it is a tonic for the whole body--allowing you to develop your own vitality.

Practicing t'ai chi, your muscles relax and your body comes into a natural alignment. Your energy begins to circulate more freely and this can bring into a greater balance. Learning to use your body in more efficiently, you have less stress and strain. You actually increase your vitality by releasing tension and using your body as an integrated whole. For some people, this means that persistent aches decrease and may even go away entirely. Others find that they have more stamina and ease when walking, mowing the lawn, performing regular activities or even feel more in tune with both their lives and environment. These benefits, which affect all of your everyday actions, have no limit.

T'ai chi is known as t'ai chi ch'uan, taiji, and taijiquan. Literally translated, t'ai chi means "supreme ultimate". T'ai chi is also the title of the yin yang diagram "the supreme ultimate" symbol. The full title T'ai chi ch'uan means grand ultimate fist. Both t'ai chi ch'uan and taijiquan are English translations of the same Chinese words. In fact, taijiquan is the more accurate translation but so much has been developed under the older translation that all of these terms are used in the discussion and practice of this art. Today, t'ai chi is considered a moving meditation as well as a tonic for health because awareness and breath are brought to every movement.