T'ai Chi--is it for me?

Question

I have osteoarthritis with one ruptured and one bulging disc in my neck. The more long, brisk walks I take, the better my posture gets and the better I feel. Stretching for flexibility also helps me very much. And I practice mindfulness meditation for about twenty minutes a day (lying down).

Since I can't do high-impact exercise, I'd like to improve my posture and co-ordination with T'ai Chi. Are there different schools? If so, would one be better for me than another?

Also, is it possible to benefit (physcially and mentally) from T'ai Chi whether one studies/believes the philosophy behind it or not? What is the philosophy behind it, and what books would you recommend for study?

And how can I know whether the teacher of a local T'ai Chi class is qualified? Are there standards?

Finally, is there another low-impact martial art or exercise program that might benefit me more than T'ai Chi?

Thanks much in advance.

Answer 1

First question, yes, and a very good observation. Tai Chi uses an inner strength called chi, obviously, and is very relaxing. It is wonderful for self defense despite the immature jokes and spoofs on the tai chi masters. Tai chi is done much faster in a threatening time, and can be deadly. However, because you seem more interested in the health-oriented parts of Tai Chi, I would also reccomend Chi Gung, which also can actually cure some forms of cancers.

Knowing no Tai Chi schools, I an't help you much on that issue.

When you ask about the philosophical requirements, it is difficult to answer. Actually, philosophy makes up a lot of Tai Chi. You have to be able to beleive in what they did(not meaning religeously,) to be able to use Chi. You have to learn trust, and know that it's not just a bunch of silly movements. What they tell you can be unbeleivable, like something from a superheroe movie, but it's all true. Try watching some videos. Demonstrations of the Tai Chi masters.
About your instructor choices, a person cannot be critical of the apples if one wishes to eat. Meaning, anyone who can teach you should be good enough, because so far, you know only of what the computer can teach you of Tai Chi. Find an instructor, and trust that they will help you. Any teacher that is not below your knowledge is qualified to teach.

It would be very good in all ways for you to start martial arts, and I hope you think so too. If you disagree with anything I've said, I take no offense, and hope you make the decision that suits you best.

Answer 2

First off, I'm not a doctor or anything, but I do have a family member with similar problems.

This person I know did a lot of Yoga and it helped tremendously. I believe t'ai chi would probably do the same.

There are tremendous benifits both mentally and physically.

A good teacher...hmm. Well, make sure they are not self centered and try to show off. Make sure they care about YOU. Also, there are many people that do the training in their home, so it is a bit more intimate.

The only other thing I can suggest is Yoga. It may be a good idea to do yoga first and then tai chi.

Good luck to you, hope all is well!

Answer 3

Yes,you could do Tai Chi.I've been practicing Tai Chi for 2 years and it helped me raise my flexibility and coordination and I became more confident in myself!The moves aren’t very demanding and they're slow.I know one guy who is partially disabled-he can't walk well but he started to practice Tai Chi and after a few months he started to walk better and his balance was better than before so Tai Chi helps-he even takes part in competitions now.
You can find more about Tai Chi here:http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tai_chi_chuan

Answer 4

Tai Chi is for you. Consult with a health pro. before doing all the moves so you don't exasperate an existing condition.
Tai Chi will give you a GREAT lo impact work out.

Answer 5

It will help but be careful. The greatest health benefits occur when you practice Tai-Chi Chuan as a martial art and not just a long flowing form.

Answer 6

Tai Chi is great for you IF the teacher is well rounded and not someone who just knows and teaches "taichi".

Their is alot to the internal arts. The teacher should know other things such as a complete Qigong course, and other internal arts. He should teach you all the arts and not just one.

Once you have found someone like this, you will be in the hands of someone who can help you with your healing process.

Answer 7

i think it is