Tai Chi
Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese martial art that has been practiced for centuries. It’s also a great hobby!
Tai Chi incorporates many different styles of movement, but it’s best known for its slow-motion choreography emphasizing balance and fluidity. This makes Tai Chi enjoyable to watch even if you’re not participating in the exercise yourself. And don’t worry about being too old or inflexible to try Tai Chi – it can be modified to accommodate any body type or age group.
The health benefits are plentiful as well: practitioners have reported better cardiovascular health, improved mental health, increased range of motion, reduced arthritis pain, decreased anxiety, and more! So what are you waiting for? Give Tai chi a try!
10 Benefits of Tai Chi as a Hobby
Tai Chi relieves stress and anxiety
There’s nothing like a little exercise to put you in a good mood, and Tai Chi takes the cake. Practice moving slowly and breathing deeply for an hour or so, or just take 15-minute breaks throughout your day to practice some self-care.
Practicing Tai Chi makes you more flexible
Are you already inflexible? Don’t worry – that’s a condition that can be improved with consistent practice! Your range of motion increases as your joints become stronger and your ligaments stretch out over time.
This means decreased risk of injury from falls, increased independence as you’re able to dress without help from others, and much more!
You’ll look better and feel better
Exercise is exercise, right? Not so! Tai Chi is a wonderful way to get in touch with your body and improve your whole outlook on life. As you become more flexible and learn how to breathe correctly, you’ll notice an increased sense of control over your own life. It feels good!
Higher levels of happiness and satisfaction
People who practice Tai Chi report higher levels of happiness and satisfaction than those who don’t
The physical benefits of practice definitely contribute to this increase in well-being – but becoming involved in the community aspect of Tai Chi has just as much impact. You can find local classes through meetup groups or online forums like Reddit’s /r/tai_chi subreddit.
Tai Chi is low-risk and easy to learn
You can learn what you need to know about practicing Tai Chi in the first 15 minutes of your very first class! Classes are offered for people of all ages, abilities, and fitness levels. They’re also fairly affordable (or often free) for anyone interested in learning more about martial art.
Some seniors’ programs even offer complimentary classes in partnership with local community centers or organizations like La Leche League – contact your local center to see if they offer discounts!
The community aspect of Tai Chi is extremely rewarding
Sure, you can go it alone if you want… But why would you? There are dozens of resources available if you’re interested in learning more about Tai Chi, or just want to talk to people with similar interests.
Meetup groups are a great way to find local classes and meet some new friends – check out what’s available in your area by searching “Tai Chi” on the website!
This is an excellent hobby for seniors
There’s no reason why older adults can’t enjoy the same hobbies as their younger counterparts. Tai Chi is easy to learn (and modify) so that it suits any ability, and is low-risk enough that there’s nothing to lose in giving it a try.
You’ll improve your health without putting stress on your body
Tai has many positive cardiovascular effects, but the most important thing to remember about it is that it’s gentle on your body. No matter what age you are or how unhealthy you may be, Tai Chi can help improve your health and decrease some of your daily pains while allowing you to do something for yourself!
Your mental health will improve, too
Remember that by focusing on slow, intentional movements and deep breathing techniques – you’re not only exercising your muscles but also your mind!
Meditation allows us to get in tune with our inner selves and focus on being present throughout the day.
Get away from the busyness of life for a little while and learn more about yourself through meditation! It feels great.
This is a hobby that will continue to benefit you over time
The longer you practice Tai Chi, the more benefits you’ll see in your mind and body!
You’ll find that you’re less stressed, have a better range of motion, and just feel happier and more satisfied with life in general.
Do you want to learn how to defend yourself? Tai Chi is a martial art that can help you do just that – while also improving your cardiovascular health, mental health, and more!