Pump up the power with Tai chi moves

(By Ranga Rao)
A survey among the practitioners of tai chi and non-practitioners between the age group 50 and 89 showed that among tai chi students, the cardiovascular level was much better, breathing was deeper and more efficient. The strength of the bones and use of joints was remarkably superior and metabolism in general was better. Among various types of tai chi exercises, Yijinjing is a wonderful therapeutic exercise for orthopedic patients during convalescence, where Yi means strengthening tendons. Jing means method or essence. This exercise is designed to strengthen flaccid and frail muscles and tendons and joints as it brings into play the legs, hip and spine and also stimulate the respiratory and circulating functions.
Method
Stand with both feet together. Move the left foot to left side and bend both legs to a double shoulder width. Sit in a half squat in "Horse Riding Stance," arms crossed at chest level. Extend right arm outside. Extend left arm to the left with index finger pointing upward and other fingers half clenched. Turn your head and look at left arm while simultaneously making a fist with the right hand, extend it to right shoulder level with the arm bent as if you were drawing a bow. While pulling right hand to right shoulder breathe in and breathe out when the hand goes back to the starting position. Repeat this 8 to 12 times on both sides.