Tai Chi Chuan exercises are based on ancient martial art movements. Tai Chi Chuan tones your limbs with the movements of shadow boxing and strengthens your balance through rigid sets of slow motions. But the body is not the only beneficiary of the exercises – its disciplined movements require concentrated mental focus. Your mind guides your body through a variety of slow, extremely graceful movements that help you move in many slow but agile ways requiring constant attention to balancing your weight on your keens, feet and heels.

Tai Chi Chuan is rapidly becoming a worldwide phenomenon. Starting in China, it has expanded to hundreds of Chinatowns in the Western World to urban and suburban neighborhoods and malls. Experts say that it will take a few months for the effects to kick in, but there are other added benefits for seniors – the opportunity to meet others and make lasting friendships. In addition, Tai Chi Chuan reduces stress. And at 60 plus, not having to deal with stress is a good thing.

It is important for older people to recognize that Tai Chi Chuan works best when combined with other exercises like walking and swimming. Combining Tai Chi Chuan, with exercises that don’t risk life or limb, doubles its benefits.