The Nervous System

The Nervous System consists of the brain and spinal chord (the central
nervous system) and the peripheral nervous system running throughout
the whole body. Just in the brain alone there are over 100 billion nerve
cells. The main job of the central nervous system is to receive
information from the body. Nerve cells or neurons carry messages in the
form of electrical impulses. The peripheral nervous system then sends
messages from the brain back to the rest of the body.

Unlike other forms of exercise, Tai Chi has been shown to strengthen
and tone the nervous system. By learning to relax your mind and body
you allow them to operate more easily. Deep breathing is a useful tool
for calming your mind, as well as for strengthening and soothing your
nerve functions. It has long been understood that taking a deep breath
can be used for controlling emotional outbursts. Any posture or
movement that turns the spine increases the blood flow to your brain
and also helps to nourish your entire nervous system.

The Lymphatic and Immune systems

The immune system is made up of special cells, proteins, tissues and

organs. It defends our body against potentially dangerous germs and
microorganisms. Part of your immune system is the lymphatic system,
which consists of thin tubes that run throughout the body. These tubes
carry a clear liquid known as the lymph. There are lymph nodes in many
parts of your body including your armpits, groin, torso and neck. The
lymphatic system includes other body parts such as the spleen which
filters the lymph fluid and also contains immune cells which protect the
body against viruses, bacteria, etc. Unlike other systems in the body the
lymph has no pump so the only way to get your lymph moving is by
gently exercising all parts of the body.

Tai Chi exercises contain many special rotational movements involving

your whole body known as dynamic spiralling. The arms, legs and
torso are all gently rotated throughout the postures. This spiralling
movement squeezes and massages the lymph nodes and helps to
pump the lymph through the body. This turning movement can have
many other health benefits including helping your body to eliminate
toxins.
Traditional Chinese doctors teach that moving chi around the body
strengthens the immune system against any disease. Learning natural
deep breathing techniques greatly improves your bodys immune
system also. Bacteria and germs do not multiply as easily under aerobic
conditions and it is now believed that even cancer cells do not multiply
as easily, when there is increased oxygen in the body.