Taiji (also referred to as Tai Chi) is a traditional Chinese martial art and health promoting exercise.
There are many different styles of Taiji, but the five major styles, each named after the Chinese family from which they respectively originated, are Chen, Yang, Wu (Hao), Wu and Sun.
Key differences exist in their approaches to training including the speed at which motions are performed, poses and size of movement etc. However, they are all united by fundamental philosophies, such as the unification of internal energy, continuous movements, center of gravity, rooting and relaxed alertness.
To-date, there are millions of Taiji practitioners, but only some are reaping the true benefit of the martial art. To achieve the true benefit of Taiji, practitioners need be patient and persistent, as well as the correct path of learning and proper guidance.
Indeed, Taiji is beyond form or exercise. It is the co-ordination of mind, body and energy flow (or Chi). It is a lifelong process but the journey is mesmerizing.