Tai chi ( also written t'ai chi or taiji or taijiquan ) is an ancient system of exercise, meditation, and martial art that unites mind and body: an exercise to cultivate the body, a meditation to cultivate the spirit, a martial art to cultivate harmonious relationships with others. The basic practice or Form comprises 37 movements executed in a slow, relaxed, and fluid manner. Benefits of Tai Chi Chuan Providing quality private and group instruction since 1980, Center States Tai Chi Chuan Association was founded by Kim Kanzelberger and offers beginning and advanced level classes in Professor Cheng Man-ch'ing's 37-posture Tai Chi Chuan form, push hands, and sword.