What are basic tai chi exercises?

Answer 1

One basic type of exercise is called, "chi-gung". There are hundreds of styles of chi-gung but their purpose is to clear the channels of chi in the body (the meridians) and to strengthen the flow of chi. Some styles are very active, such as those based on animal movements (like "zookinesis", a modern translation), also increase range of motion of the joints and develop fine motor coordination. Other styles involve very little movement. Chi-gung is not only a physical exercise but includes concentration and proper breathing.

Slow forms such as Yang, Chen and Wu styles develop the fluidity of body movement and eliminate the tendency of the mind to lock up. Attention becomes distributed throughout the body rather than just in the head. You learn to relax all joints so that you are well connected to the ground (root).

From these exercises you then go on to Push Hands, training in healing and self defense.

Answer 2

Qi Gong (also spelled chi-gung) is an exercise involving movement of the body and of your mind (attention) with training in breathing. You begin by learning the movements. In some cases the qi-gong can be stationary, holding a particular posture. In others in can be very vigorous (such as in "zookinesis" which means animal exercises).

The next step is learning the dynamics of attention. In some cases the focal point of attention (mind) is moved in certain patterns (such as the "microcosmic and macrocosmic orbit) while in others you try to distribute your attention evenly throughout the body.

Breathing must be smooth and even in most forms of qi-gong. This allows greater control of the attention. There are some styles in which the breath is short and forceful.

The next step is letting go of all extraneous activities of body and mind. The body releases any excess tension and the mind clears so that the attention and body can unite. This strengthens the "Body-Mind" which is the consciousness of the body.

When Body-Mind strengthens and comes into balance with the thinking mind, then healing takes place automatically.