In China Taijiquan is well known for its healing powers and is prescribed by doctors in addition to other treatments. Also known as Shadow Boxing, most Westerners will have seen Taijiquan being practiced by large groups of Chinese people in parks.
Originally developed as a martial art in 16th century China, since the mid-50s Taijiquan is now practiced around the world as a health-promoting exercise. Health benefit studies have shown that Taijiquan can help people to reduce stress, improve posture, balance, general mobility and increase muscle strength.