Tai Chi Chi Gong: The Health Benefits for Body and Mind
Tai Chi Chi Gong, also known as Taiji Qigong
On May 12 and 13, 2018, in the city of Sofia, the Chi Energy Festival took place. The festival was dedicated to practices for enhancing and cultivating Chi energy, which, according to Chinese tradition, is the life force within and around us. Leading schools in Tai Chi (Taiji Quan), Qigong (Chi Gong), Feng Shui, Acupuncture, and Chinese Energy Massage participated in the festival. The goal of the Chi Energy Festival is to introduce people to these ancient practices, which can help them overcome daily stress in the dynamic urban environment and live a healthier life. It aims to demonstrate how these practices are performed and create a space for the exchange of ideas and practical experiences among those involved in traditional and new practices in this field.
The event is held annually and has gained popularity among the leading schools in the mentioned areas. Each school had the opportunity to give a lecture and conduct an open lesson within one hour, allowing participants to experience the respective practice under the skilled guidance of the instructors. Admission to the event was free.
The Chen Tai Chi Academy - Bulgaria participated in the festival with an open one-hour lesson. The lesson began with several followers from the school demonstrating a sequence of movements from the Chen family's Tai Chi forms within 3 minutes. After the attendees watched the demonstration with interest, they had the opportunity to join in and experience the beneficial effects of Tai Chi (Taiji Quan) on themselves. As there were many participants willing to take part in the open lesson, all present followers of the Academy had to participate. All representatives of the school assisted in teaching and were open to providing additional explanations to everyone in the room.
In the open lesson, one of the most important principles in the Chen style Tai Chi (Taiji Quan) was explained, namely the Spiral Force, also known as the Silk-Reeling Energy. A series of movements were demonstrated through which participants could personally experience the effects of this principle. The lesson also showcased Fa Jin (the power of the strike) or the so-called explosive force, and everyone had the opportunity to try it. Finally, the lesson concluded with partner exercises. After the lesson, everyone felt relaxed and momentarily forgot about the daily routine and stress awaiting them outside the hall.