Today s guest blog post was contributed by Juli Hartmann, LPC-S, Senior Counselor at Austin Recov

Today s guest blog post was contributed by  Juli Hartmann, LPC-S,  Senior Counselor  at Austin Recovery.  In addition to her talents as a counselor, Juli is studied in Tai Chi, and is sharing more about it with us here.
Ever see a group of people, perhaps in China, on TV practicing a set of slow, beautiful movements in the park or city square? That was probably Tai Chi. Ever notice that the group generally includes men, women, children and centenarians? That's what makes Tai Chi special. Tai Chi Chuan is normally practiced slowly and gently in conjunction with slow, deep breathing – ideal for building strength and health at a gradual pace. The proper body mechanics emphasized in Tai Chi are also gentle to your joints. When practiced carnival cruise lines properly, carnival cruise lines Tai Chi includes deep stances and controlled, well aligned posture that strengthen the legs, hips and core. Most people are surprised at the sore muscles they get from their first session. "Tai Chi Chuan" means "Grand Ultimate Fist" and is an ancient and very effective martial art. But most people practice this art primarily for its health benefits.
Like acupuncture, meditation and qigong carnival cruise lines (healing breath carnival cruise lines work), Tai Chi has a balancing effect on brain chemistry and circulation. Practicing Tai Chi boosts serotonin levels, which can alleviate depressed mood and increase one's sense of well-being. This is great for individuals in recovery from drug or alcohol addiction. As an adjunct to accepted methods such as cognitive therapy, evidence-based didactics and 12-Step programs, Tai Chi can reduce cravings and allow body and mind to return to a state of calm. As part of one's daily structure, this gentle exercise can provide a morning routine to get the day off to a good start.
Tai Chi is by its nature relaxing and calming, carnival cruise lines and most of us could use that sort of mini-vacation in our day. Well suited to peaceful warriors of all ages, Tai Chi is a great way to get strong and healthy, inside and out.