In our fast-paced 21st century world, it is very difficult to avoid getting stressed. Continual tension results in exhaustion, the weakening of the immune system and the development of illness. We must all find an activity that helps us get out of the treadmill, relax and recharge our system. Many find this source of enjoyment in a hobby, others are liberated by sports and there are people who find the answer in practicing Eastern physical exercises and philosophy. Below is a collection of the most well-known and popular methods.
Yoga
Yoga aims to awaken bodily and spiritual powers. Yoga can help control the body, the mind, as well as emotions and desires. It gradually leads to discovering the true nature of being. There are several versions of yoga, developed for different personality types. Outside of India, Hatha yoga became successful in the western world in the 20th century. However, currently all branches of yoga can be found in yoga centres and wellness studios throughout Europe.
Yoga is closely tied to Hinduism, yet its practitioners do not consider it a religion. It contains elements and exercises that are useful for religious people but they can also be well applied without spiritual experiences.
Yoga can be practiced by anyone, regardless of gender, age and body type. It can be used excellently to counterbalance the unhealthy effects of sedentary lifestyle, one-sided or unvaried sporting activities, and work that causes physical or intellectual exhaustion. Yoga exercises stimulate the muscles, the joints, the bone structure, the internal organs, the circulatory system and brain cells, resulting in well-balanced functioning. Through meditative thoughts, relaxation chants and intellectual teachings, yoga has a beneficial effect on the practitioner’s emotional life and environment, as well as his or her relationships with the environment.
Simple example: Stand straight, with your feet parallel next to each other and your arms stretched down next to your body. Hold your back straight and bring your shoulder blades closer to each other while pulling in your belly. Lift your head, gazing slightly above the horizon. The body weight rests equally on two legs.
Effect: in addition to improving bad posture, you can also reduce the abrasion of the vertebra and improve your breathing.
Qigong
Qigong is the cultivation of life force and energy within the body. It is the most ancient element of traditional Chinese medicine. Its aim is to harmonise the energies of the body and the soul in order to maintain health, extend lifespan, and improve intellectual development and performance. It helps maintain spiritual balance and find deeper values which make life full. During its history going back several thousand years, thousands of styles of Qigong have developed. There are styles closely associated with martial arts, to make the body strong and resilient against punches and kicks. Next to therapeutic, medical exercises, many people practice static and dynamic, meditative and exhaustive exercises. All styles are based on the knowledge and practical use of the body’s meridian system, the yin and yang principle and the study of the five elements. Those who practice qigong seriously are generally more balanced, cheerful and optimistic.
To acquire an initial knowledge of qigong, it is necessary to get professional guidance.
Tai chi
In first reading, tai chi is an ancient method to shape the body and free it from stress. It belongs to the internal Chinese martial arts, where emphasis is placed on internal development instead of muscle power.
Tai chi is a system of refined movements that affect the entire body and result in harmony, having beneficial effects on the body and the soul and therefore on general health. Tai chi can be studied without martial arts practice, “simply” to help maintain health. Through the practice of tai chi, one develops on three levels: the body, the soul and the spirit, resulting in the harmony of completeness. It is no surprise that tai chi is often called the art of living in harmony. It can be practiced in any age and does not require a special body condition or strength.
Unlike many other forms of martial arts, tai chi can be practiced throughout life. Regular tai chi exercise will maintain the body and the soul, improve health and general well-being.
