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The Benefits of Taichi for Children

It is common knowledge that children today are the least physically fit of any generation. Obesity and childhood illnesses like diabetes that can be a result of inactivity, are at an all time high. Schools have reduced their physical fitness programs and fitting in family time dedicated to physical activity is not as popular as it used to be. Coupled with the diversions of television and video games, it is no wonder that the focus on physical fitness has drastically decreased. It is so important that we not only take time in our own lives for physical fitness but that we also teach the far reaching benefits to our children. Establishing healthy habits in childhood surrounding physical activity will enable our children to continue living a healthy lifestyle throughout their lives. A wonderful choice of physical activity for children is Taichi. Most parents, unless they have been exposed to Taichi themselves, have probably not considered this as a viable physical activity, only because they aren’t familiar with the benefits.

Taichi is an ancient form of physical meditation for the mind, spirit and body that improves overall fitness, coordination, and agility. People who practice the art regularly tend to have good posture, flexibility and range of motion. They also tend to have more mental clarity and sleep more soundly at night. It is an activity accessible to all ages and physical abilities, so it makes it a perfect form of mindful exercise for children.

The magic of Taichi is found in the unique combination of movement, breathing and meditation. The routine movements are very slow and continuous which massages the internal organs, opens up joints and exercises the muscles. The movements are always done while breathing deep and focusing on the intricacies of the movement. One of the common misconceptions is that it is not a good workout. However, because most of the movements are done in the grounded position, utilizing the largest muscle of the body, the thigh muscle, many calories are burned and most participants of Taichi find themselves sweating.

The slow, graceful movements of Taichi can help kids develop an inner awareness and provide them with a calm center to return to which is ever important in the stressful world we live in. Woven within these health-enhancing movements are positive affirmations relating to confidence, gratitude, patience and respect for self and others. The movements are easy enough for kids to do on their own, yet entertaining enough to become a favorite family activity!

Taichi can help children develop a life long fitness regiment. It does not require expensive equipment or a membership to a gym; it can be practiced in the comfort of your own home. For children who dislike competition or who frequently feel judged, it is a wonderful alternative to group sports. It offers them a chance to be as physically active as they can or want to be in a safe place and best of all they get to be whoever they want without being judged or rejected.

Children naturally crave movement and sensory/motor stimulus, which Taichi provides; as well as helping with mental focus, coordination and flexibility. An informal study by Tai Chi Flow between 2002-2003 revealed that following a series of twelve 30-minute sessions, elementary school teachers in St.George, Utah reported increased levels of attentiveness in their students. For children who suffer from ADHD (Attention-Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder) regular practice could prove to be very beneficial.

Taichi is a wonderful form of exercise that everyone can participate in. The goal is not about the perfect execution of movement, but instead about helping children slow down, breathe and relax so they can identify the place of empowerment within themselves.

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