Shibashi

Development of Basic Movements  :

There is an almost infinite number of Tai Chi Movements that can be performed, all originally derived from four principle styles that developed over the ages since Chang Seng Feng first drew inspiration from the snake and crane in the thirteenth century.

The latest evolution is a style that concentrate on health and Philosophy : Tai Chi Qigong Shibashi. The following set of eighteen exercises was developed in China around 80's by a traditional Chinese medical practitioner, Dr. Chan, whose aim was to teach a simple, repetitive and therefore easy to learn) set of exercises to his patients to use as a means of enhancing their health and longevity. These steps are modified by Grand Master Gary Khor, President of Australian Academy of Tai Chi with aims of 

1. Activating the flow of Chi along the meridians.

2. Strengthening the internal organs.

3. Increasing, longevity by maintaining the health and vigour of the body and mind.

4. Exercising all joints and muscles.

5. Managing stressby promoting a balanced and relaxed attitude.

6. Preventing occupational diseases such as repetative strain injury. 

7. Promoional postural awareness.

8. Providing the essence and base for many other internal and external martial arts.

This set of exercises is, therefore, a comprehensive health plan to cultivate health and energy in every part of Body. 

BENEFITS OF THE BASIC MOVEMENTS :

In essence, these eighteen Movements work to increase the body's flexibility, improve abdominal breathing, and focus the mind in meditation. More specifically, if you practice consistently you will enjoy the following benefits identified by Professor Li Ding of Shanxi Medical College, China :

Head : your head will feel clear, your body light and comfortable, your memory will increase, you will sleep better, think faster, be more alert and more energetic. These beneficial effects are brought about by the abundance of oxygen supplied to the brain cells and to other cells throughout the body.

Eyes : Increased oxygen supply and improved blood circulation help you to see better. When the mind is tranquil, the eyes are bright and the vision is clearer.

Heart & Lungs : Your heart and lung fu ction will improve.The power of heart contractions increases; there will be no shortness of breath.

Chest : There will be more cheerful, abundant energy known as zhong chi, in the chest. Your voice will become more forceful and louder, your breathing, smoother and more comfortable.

Spleen & Stomach : Your apetite will improve, you enjoy what you eat. Nourishment from acquired nutrients will also improve.

Liver & Gall Bladder : Your liver and gall bladder functions will improve, enhancing the digestion and absorption of nutrients and increasing your body's resistance and immunity to disease. For anyone who offen suffers from cold and flu, their occurence may be prevented or reduced.

Abdomen : Fat deposits will be reduced and the peristaltic action of the stomach and intestines improves, making you look better and preventing any increase of cholesterol in the blood.

Reproductive System : increased reproductive ability and also prevention of noctural emission, impotence and prostalitis.

Limbs : Your joint become smooth and active, the tendons and  bones are strengthened; movements become firm and fast.

Spine : its Movements become smooth and free, hunchback and deformation are prevented.

Important points to note before you begin your Tai Chi.

1. Before starting the set, stand quietly to calm your breathing.

  2. Breath abdominally, through the nose.

3. Stabilise yourself by lowering your strength from upper torso into the legs and, even more importantly, lowering the Chi to the Tan Tien.

4. In your posture elevate the head, hold the neck erect but not tense, and the chin slightly in toward the throat. Let the arms hang freely. Tuck the buttocks in. Do not incline or lean - keep the trunk in a central position.

5. Relax and perform the exercises slowly, smoothly and softly. Balance, co-ordination and continuous flowing Movements will produce harmony.

6. All Movements must be controlled by the mind, the mind commands, the body obeys.

7. Do each exercise eight times ( four timeseach side in case of two sided exercises. 

8. At the end of the set, stand quietly for a short time in the standing zen position.