Strength Exercises - Zhan Zhuang develops internal strengthIn practising the strength exercises that are Zhan Zhuang, we develop internal strength. Relaxation is only a part of the process of these exercises. Another aspect is the development of our mental strength and our internal anatomy strength that has lain dormant within us since our birth. Most of us are totally unaware of the incredible potential for strength we have within us - totally untapped potential. Whilst the benefits of exercise such as swimming, aerobic exercise, weight training, etc. are widely known, it is also true to say that these exercises do put a big strain on the heart and lungs and therefore at some point we become exhausted and have to stop the exercise.
Although Zhan Zhuang looks slow and unmoving, when we do these strength exercises, we develop internal strength so that we are able to develop our muscle power over a long period of time without putting pressure on the lungs.
This form of exercise is being sought out by more and more of us, as we continue to explore for more holistic ways of living, and exercising, so that we can connect with our body, mind and spirit when we undertake exercise - rather than simply building up specific muscle groups, and gasping for air at the end of an aerobic session! The Chinese have meticulously studied the energy of humans for thousands of years, dating back to the Yellow Emperor around 2690BC. The Chinese studies still continue and as such there is so much valuable information available to show how these strength exercises, or martial arts, can greatly improve our health holistically - mind, body and spirit. The Chinese hold the belief that Chi (meaning 'air' or 'breath') is vital for good health and energy. Chi is also meant to represent 'vital essence' - it (chi) sustains all life and is present in each and every cell.
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