Tai chi Montreal taught at the National Institute of Chinese Medicine (Canada) inc, is a form of taichi that is practised and reputed for its health benefits, rather than for self-defence. So in this sense, it is more a form of Qigong: the skill of (Qi or energy). It is a powerful tool for cultivating inner calm, self awareness, connection with your body, as well as longevity. A multitude of Qigong forms exist, both traditional and modern, which correspond to those aims. Each Tai chi Qigong form has its own specific aim in the health sense, either for healing a specific illness, getting rid of a sudden onset or accident, for chronic ailments, or simply for harmonization. Most forms of Tai chi Qigong are passed on through family traditions.

Tai chi Montreal teaches one the worldwide known form called 'Shibashi - 18 movement' and it also offers a 2 year teachers training program. Especially known for being practised with what most people would categorize as slow movement, Shibashi was developed at the request of the Chinese Government, as a National Health Prevention tool. Medical research has found evidence that Tai chi Qigong is very helpful for improving balance and for general psychological well-being, as it is a form of meditation. The creator of this form, professor Lin HouSheng has put a lot of emphasis on the poetic images of each movement, so to keep the mind in a peaceful, joyful state. That alone is a great relaxation and well-being tool.

With names such as painting a rainbow, rowing in the middle of a lake, turning to look at the moon, wild goose in flight, your mind is kept busy and relaxed, not focusing on your to do list, and is peaceful and joyful. This is the art of the Chinese practices. A zen state of mind, to put it in Westerner's vocabulary.

If you are looking for a fun activity, that is both relaxing and good for the body, Tai chi Montreal (visit : www.shibashicanada.com) can help you learn this ancient physical activity. Don't be fooled, even though the movements are slow and gentle in appearance, they do tone your body very efficiently. Your core will be strengthened, your balance improved, your legs will get toned, arms sculpted and of course, blood flow will be increased. Tendons will be stretched and all your tissues will get the benefits. Your first class at Tai chi Montreal will leave you feeling a sense of well-being, without the weight-lifting soreness. Plus, your brain and nervous system will get so much benefits, you'll understand why this art has lasted for so many centuries.