I am proud to say that both of my sons have black belts in Tang Soo Do Karate.  They worked hard for this designation, and Freddy has since branched out and learned other forms of martial arts.  I was really happy when he told me that he is now learning Tai Chi.  Tai Chi, which means “the supreme ultimate” is like a moving meditation.  It originated about 2,000 years ago in China as a form of self-defense.  The motions are designed to unite body, mind, and spirit, which results in improved physical and mental well-being.  Tai Chi is based on the ancient Taoist philosophy of yin and yang.  Yin represents the passive force, and yang represents the aggressive force.  The idea is to combine these opposing forces through soft, smooth, yet powerful movements to cultivate the “chi” (life energy) the circulates through the body.  There are many different style of Tai Chi, and whichever you choose, the benefits are the same, including:

-Improved circulation and stamina

-Increased energy

-Better balance, reduced risk of falls

-Lower blood pressure

-Reduced joint pain

-Improved flexibility

-Lower levels of stress