In the early morning light of a quiet park, a small group of people move slowly and gracefully in unison, their hands gliding through the air like passing through water. At first glance, it may look like a slow-motion dance. But this ancient practice, known as Tai Chi, is far more than graceful movement, it’s a powerful tool for health, longevity, and inner peace.
The practice of Tai Chi originated in China over 300 years ago. It was initially developed as a martial art, but over the decades morphed into a meditative and healing practice grounded in the principles of Taoism. Its core philosophy is about duality, the balance between yin and yang, mind and body, strength and softness.
Legend attributes the creation of Tai Chi to Chen Wangting, a 16th-century royal guard from the Chen Village. He blended traditional Chinese medicine with martial arts and breathing techniques to form what is now considered one of the oldest internal martial arts. Since then, it has branched into various styles – Chen, Yang, Wu, and Sun – each with its own tempo and emphasis.
What makes Tai Chi particularly appealing for people in their 60s and over is its health impact – especially as we age on into our 70s, 80s and 90s. Unlike high-intensity workouts, Tai Chi is gentle on the joints and muscles, making it accessible to older adults or anyone recovering from injury. Its low-impact nature reduces the risk of falls and injuries while still promoting strength, flexibility, and coordination which is great for mobility.
The slow, deliberate movement of Tai Chi is great for stimulating circulation, improving posture and building core stability. The practice also incorporates deep breathing and mindfulness, which, in itself, is a form of meditation. Studies have shown that regular Tai Chi can reduce blood pressure, relieve anxiety, alleviate arthritis symptoms, and even improve sleep quality.
Dr Paul Lam, a Sydney-based family physician and one of the world’s leading Tai Chi experts, has dedicated his life to promoting the practice. Lam took up Tai Chi to help control his arthritis. “Tai Chi has not only helped me overcome my arthritis condition but it has improved every aspect of my life,” he shares. He emphasises its role in preventing and managing chronic conditions like osteoporosis, diabetes, and heart disease. “Tai Chi is medicine in motion,” he often says.
Moreover, Tai Chi encourages a calm and meditative state of mind. As retirement brings a shift in identity and lifestyle, this mindful practice offers emotional grounding and resilience. It’s a way to stay active without strain, and to stay mentally sharp in the process.
Actor Keanu Reeves reportedly practiced Tai Chi while training for his role in The Matrix series. He found it helped with focus and physical control during demanding action scenes. Similarly, actress and wellness advocate Marcia Gay Harden (Meet Joe Black, Fifty Shades of Grey) has spoken publicly about her love for Tai Chi, describing it as a “moving meditation” that helps her stay grounded amid the pressures of Hollywood.
Even the late Robin Williams was known to explore Tai Chi during his spiritual and wellness journeys.
Tai Chi has a strong presence across Australia, with classes offered in community centres, parks, martial arts studios, and online. The cost of Tai Chi varies depending on the instructor, location, and type of class. Group classes generally range from $10 to $25 per session, while private lessons can cost between $60 and $100 per hour.
Some local councils run free Tai Chi classes in community centres and parks. Also investigate your local seniors or caregiver programs, often these are run by local councils or health initiatives.
Online platforms also offer subscription-based classes or free YouTube videos for those preferring to learn at home.
So why not try Tai Chi it’s a wonderfully sustainable way to stay healthy – physically, mentally, and emotionally. It asks little in terms of equipment or space, yet gives back tenfold in vitality and peace of mind.
IMPORTANT LEGAL INFO This article is of a general nature and FYI only, because it doesn’t take into account your personal health requirements or existing medical conditions. That means it’s not personalised health advice and shouldn’t be relied upon as if it is. Before making a health-related decision, you should work out if the info is appropriate for your situation and get professional medical advice.