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Step 1
Learn the proper breathing techniques. With tai chi, the emphasis is placed upon the opening and closing of each physical movement, which corresponds to inhaling and exhaling. By paying attention to your breathing patterns and how to regulate them, you eventually will be able to relax your body at will.
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Step 2
Start every movement with your body at rest. Tai chi focuses on the contrast your body experiences while performing a movement and while remaining still. While the outward appearance of your movements may seem to be slow, every form requires an incredible amount of strength and focus, which balances out the neutral forms during which muscles are allowed to rest.
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Step 3
Focus on the circular motions of every movement in tai chi, which will help you to relax. In tai chi, your arms, legs, elbows, knees, shoulders and hips all move in circles with each movement. "Circular in all aspects" is a common mantra with all forms of tai chi.
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Step 4
Use tai chi to relax whenever you feel agitated, stressed or angry. Tai chi experts feel that practicing your movements just 5 minutes per day can release tension, restore calm and increase your mental fitness.
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Step 5
Invest time to learn how to master all of the tai chi movements. Don't race to learn the techniques. While this martial art may seem outwardly simple, all of the learning takes place inside your body as you master calm, continuity and focus. Many tai chi experts feel that it takes a lifetime to perfect the technique, and that the journey toward perfection is the true reward.
