Tai chi: Bangalore breathes in

Groups of people performing slow rhythmic movements, along with breathing exercises, in parks have become common sight in the mornings across mainland China and elsewhere in the world. Primarily intended to teach awareness of one’s body rhythm and what affects it, Tai Chi is now hailed the world over for its ability to manage stress and build positive behavioural attitudes. The practice of Tai Chi as a "martial art therapy" thus fulfils the purposes of health, longevity and deep relaxation (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tai_chi_chuan).

Tai chi dates back to the time when a set of movements were handed down by the Chens to the Yangs, as well as to the methodology of internal discipline taught by the legendary Master Chuan. Internal discipline predicts how a movement should be made from the core of one’s body, the abdomen and the back, and not from the external parts, the arms, shoulders or legs.

The movements in Tai Chi mobilise one's energy or power resources and help one deliver in an efficient manner. However, this form of martial art is practised extensively for its healing effects rather than its martial art properties. Tai Chi is also known to have a palliative effect on blood pressure, arthritis and joint pain and induces a long and healthy life span. The Kadihai Martial Academy is where Bangaloreans go to practise this martial art form. They also conduct classes at Palace Grounds (Gayathri Vihar Entrance), Lourd Vijay's Dance Studio and at Active Canvas (near Ashoka Pillar, Jayanagar 1st Block).