Essentials of Proper Breathing With Tai Chi
Tai Chi has been used by the people of China to strengthen the mind as well as the body for centuries. Even though it looks like some of the other common martial art forms, Tai Chi uses different body movements and a varied set of postures. Also known as ‘Tai Chi Chuan’, Tai Chi is combines various postures to form a wave of simultaneous exercises. One of the major differences between Tai Chi and other forms of martial arts is that while other forms of self defense are practiced with a partner, Tai Chi is an art that is practiced alone. As a high concentration level is required for performing the different movements of Tai Chi, it is considered to be more closely related with mediation than with a self defense technique.
A key fact about Tai Chi is that it consists of a number of breathing exercises that not only help in improving the blood circulation but also assist in improving the heart and lung condition. Before performing Tai Chi one should make it a point to visualize the flow of energy through his/her body; doing this is most easy when done with the help of breathing. By carefully noticing the inhaling and exhaling procedure Tai Chi learners can train their body to react according to the energy flow. Here we will unveil some guidelines that would help you in learning the proper way to breathe while performing Tai Chi.
During your Tai Chi movements, users are advised to use two different levels of breathing. Practicing the breathing techniques is very important because it helps in stretching as well as concentration and meditation. As for the breathing techniques, new Tai Chi users do not have to worry as one gets used to the breathing methods with time.
Every journey begins with a single step, likewise you should start by practicing level one breathing before moving up the ladder. Because of their basic nature, level one breathing is useable for not only the basic level exercises but also for high level exercises. For performing a level one breathing, stick your tongue to the roof of the mouth, and breathe deeply and slowly; while exhaling relax the tongue. Here Tai Chi practitioners should note to breathe through the nose and exhale from mouth.
When moving to level two breathing techniques, it should be noted that they are usually practiced after mastering level one breathing techniques. Practice level two breathing on the basic Tai Chi exercises to increase your competence. In basic exercises, hold the breath and position for a few seconds before exhaling. For performing level two breathing techniques, keep your tongue to the roof of your mouth and breathe in through the nose. Hold the breath as you reach the highest point of your Tai Chi exercise and after a few seconds, slowly breathe out through the mouth.
Tai chi relies on breathing in a big way, performing proper breathing techniques is important not only for the complete effect of a Tai Chi session but also because if done wrong, these techniques can do serious harm to your body.