The WHO recently declared T'ai Chi to be the singe most effective whole body health maintenance system in the world. I have been studying Chen Shi Taijiquan (Chen Style T'ai Chi) here in LA for about a year and a half now, and it's absolutely no exaggeration to say it's improved EVERY aspect of my life. I have more energy, mental clarity, and less stress than at any point in my life. I started because of an interest in "subtle energy" and its potential relationship to acting, and believe in it even more now. Even if you dismiss the ideas of "chi" and "internal alchemy", which I feel have helped my acting tremendously, the ability it develops in one to completely let go of tension is absolute gold to the actor. Tension is the actor's #1 enemy, a fact agreed upon universally by acting teachers. Chen Style is great because it keeps the fighting elements in, and is more vigorous than the Yang style most Westerners are familiar with. I am including a link to the site for my Shifu, who is truly an incredible teacher who has trained with serious masters. Or search for a teacher in your area. Remember, I am not promoting that to learn "martial arts" for movies (although it is one), but as an instrumental study that will help your relaxation, movement, and depth of physical expression. I have studied with several acting teachers and feel that my study of t'ai chi has been one of the best things I have done for my training.

www.chen-taiji-la.com

Cool. Thanks for posting this!

My husband is interested in starting tai-chi.

Rosemead is a bit far for us. Do you know of any instructors who will come to your home and help you learn it?