Holistic Approach for Teaching Tai Chi
* By Aaron Meadows, preprint DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.23585.36969 * July 2026 *
Abstract
Tai Chi (Taijiquan) offers a holistic approach to physical, mental, and cultural education. Beyond its popular perception as a “slow dance” for the elderly, Taiji integrates standing meditation, breathing, form, martial applications, and philosophy-Chinese philosophy in metaphysics and Traditional Chinese Medicine-to cultivate physical fitness, mental focus, and emotional resilience. Key practices such as Zhuang Gong or “Standing Meditation” and the activity “Push Hands” teach students to unify body and mind, coordinate movement, and transform strength through balancing contraction and relaxation with intent. Higher education students report benefits including stress reduction, improved health, enhanced study focus, and deeper cultural understanding. Effective Taiji education requires teaching the complete system-form, technique, philosophy, and application-rather than isolated routines. This approach fosters self-awareness, humility, adaptability, and social cohesion, aligning with the broader goal of educating the whole person. By preserving traditional practices while adapting pedagogical methods for contemporary learners, Taiji in higher education promotes lifelong physical and mental well-being, cultural literacy, and holistic personal development.
About the author(s)
Aaron Meadows
Concordia University
Charlottesville, United States
PhD Student – Kinesiology
Interested in interventions that reduce exercise intolerance among people who have conditions that affect angiogenesis.
