Tai Chi has long been acknowledged as a traditional martial art that people of all ages can practice. But more than just a martial art; it also has several physical and mental advantages. That is why an increasing number of people choose this discipline to enhance their health conditions. In this post, let’s get to know the practice of Tai Chi on an overnight Halong Bay Cruise and explore its benefits.
Introduction about Tai Chi
Tai Chi, also called Taijiquan or Tai Chi Chuan, is a traditional Chinese martial art that combines gentle, flowing movements following certain sequences or patterns. These motions are performed in a calm and concentrated way to improve balance, flexibility, and strength. It’s sometimes referred to as "moving meditation" due to its emphasis on inner peace and mindfulness.
Tai Chi classes are appropriate for people of all ages and fitness levels, especially those looking for a low-impact exercise that develops mental calmness and spiritual awareness. You will see people practicing it in parks, health clubs, and community centers.
The Origins of Tai Chi
Tai Chi's origins may be traced back to ancient Chinese history and mythology, leading to its mix of historical truths and legends. Zhang Sanfeng, a famous Chinese Taoist who lived in the late Song and early Yuan dynasties (12th to 14th centuries), was credited with developing Tai Chi. However, historical records and sources indicate that Tai Chi's beginnings are more complicated and may have roots in many martial arts techniques practiced in ancient China.
Regardless of its real origins, Tai Chi has grown throughout centuries, with each generation contributing to its growth and spreading its presence to other parts of the world. Nowadays, Tai Chi is respected not just for its martial arts component but also for its health benefits and well-being impacts.
The Benefits of Tai Chi
Tai Chi offers a lot of benefits to its practitioners, such as reducing stress and anxiety, improving posture, and enhancing cardiovascular health. Some of the basic advantages of Tai Chi sessions are listed below:
Improve heart-related problems
Harvard Medical School researchers discovered that the practice of Tai Chi helps decrease cholesterol and reduce blood pressure and inflammation, all of which are associated with improved heart health.
Control symptoms and slow progression of Parkinson's
Research published in the Journal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry has shown that people with Parkinson's disease who practiced Tai Chi on a daily basis improved their sleep, gait, and cognitive function with fewer complications. This is due to the focus of Tai Chi on weight transfer, gentle stretching, and slow, controlled movements to develop balance and flexibility.
Ease the symptoms of Fibromyalgia
Tai Chi sessions have been demonstrated to be effective for people with fibromyalgia by encouraging relaxation and increasing general physical performance. Tai Chi also improves quality of life with proper body alignment and postural awareness, which can help reduce chronic pain and fatigue. The circular, flowing motions are mild on the joints, making it an excellent exercise for anyone suffering from arthritis or other joint-related diseases.
Treat mental health conditions
According to the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, participating in a weekly Tai Chi class relieves depressive symptoms. This exercise can foster a feeling of community and social engagement, improving overall mental health. It can also aid patients suffering from traumatic brain damage, cognitive decline, insomnia, and drug abuse.
Improve the control of diabetes
A new study suggests that Tai Chi can help type 2 diabetics with their blood glucose levels and immune system response. Tai Chi is a calm, graceful form of exercise, but it may also be used as moderate-intensity training to gradually increase muscle strength and endurance. Furthermore, Tai Chi promotes a mindfulness intervention by lowering cortisol levels and stress hormones.
Tai Chi sessions on Halong Bay Cruises
Practicing Tai Chi on Halong Bay Cruises is a truly peaceful and enchanted experience. And all overnight cruise ships will offer this free, optional activity in the early morning. A professional instructor or master on board will lead you through the gentle exercise. In the serene, open space of the cruise deck, you can establish a sense of harmony between your body and soul and focus your thoughts through the rhythmic flow of the session.
Tips to enhance a Tai Chi experience
- Beginners should find a qualified instructor to learn correct postures and movements.
- Listen to your body and refrain from overexerting yourself.
- Breathe in as you stretch and out as you contract. Deep, relaxed breathing will enhance the flow of the body’s energy.
- Stay aware of the movements, sensations, and breaths as Tai Chi is a form of moving meditation.
Tai Chi is not about perfecting the motions but about building a thoughtful and harmonious state of being. Embark on a Halong Bay cruise trip and experience a Tai Chi class in the stunning backdrops of the heritage bay. Find out more about Halong Bay Cruises with Tai Chi session service at our website or contact our travel consultants at any time.
