Practice T’ai Chi, Qigong or both?

“My physio recommended Tai Chi after I had a couple of very bad falls. I have found my balance & overall wellbeing has really improved as I have regularly attended classes over the last 4 - 5 years".

Whether you choose Tai Chi or Qigong you will benefit most by daily practice - like any skill, the more you practice the better you are. These disciplines are about your health and wellbeing - being the very best you can, overcoming all types of health issues, and "being as healthy as possible when the time comes to leave this earth".

To understand the differences of T’ai Chi & Qigong, watch this youtube clip with Anthony of Flowing Zen or read below for a brief outline.

Why Learn Qigong

  • It is easier to learn than T’ai Chi

  • It is a faster path to healing for most people

  • It is empowering to learn and practice as a solo art

  • It puts the 'chi' in T’ai Chi Chuan

There are many types of Qigong: medical, longevity, scholarly, martial & spiritual, and many more styles. Qigong can be described as the 'engine' for T’ai Chi Chuan.

To become calm and relaxed in stressful situations, to learn and maintain mental and emotional focus - in other words…regain wellness. To enhance and maximise brain activity, and build resilience. Learn how to breathe naturally again. To strengthen muscles, increase energy levels, have physical and mental balance, coordination of body and mind, flexible joints, improve sleep quality, and promote longevity.

Why Learn T’ai Chi Chuan

  •  It is more challenging, and can be more athletic as a martial art

  • Can involve partner work when fundamentals are learned solo

  • It can be more motivating when working towards a martial move/goal

  • It will give better balance physically, emotionally & spiritually

  • It is a martial art of self defence giving you clarity of mind, calm under pressure

There are five main family styles of T’ai Chi Chuan: Chen, Yang, Wu, Sun, and Hao. All five styles have the same origin and share many similarities. However, each style has its own unique characteristics and emphasises a particular aspect of movement.

The Times wrote an article (paywall) about Qigong, available on their website.