Our skin makes its color from pigments. They are colored pigments. Individuals with dark skin have more of these pigments and those with lighter skin have less of them. This pigment is known as melanin.

The main purpose of melanin is to guard the body from sun rays. That is why, we get tanned when we expose ourselves to sun. Tanning means more production of melanin. Cells known as melanocytes in the skin produce melanin.

If for any cause, the skin begins losing melanin from a patch on the body, light skin develops on that place. This is called vitiligo disease. There is no specific cause known for vitiligo except for the thought that the body destroys the melanin itself. That is why this is called an autoimmune disease (a disease where the body attacks itself).

Vitiligo can develop on the whole body, or it can stop after creating few patches. Anybody can get it on any part of the body. There is no perfect cure for it. There is no prevention for vitiligo. Vitiligo also exposes skin to sun rays and that is dangerous. Let us find out more about it.

Vitiligo can develop on any part of the body, at any age and in anyone. Though it is believed that exposed parts of body have higher chances of developing Vitiligo, it can appear anywhere. Color of skin does not affect the probability of getting vitiligo. Similarly, it can strike both the sexes and at any age and treatments for vitiligo for everyone is very similar.

It is estimated that in about one-fifth of the cases, other family members may also have vitiligo. As vitiligo is an autoimmune disorder, its patients are monitored for other autoimmune diseases such as thyroid disorders, alopecia aerta, etc. You should talk to your doctor about this in detail.

Vitiligo begins with a small area of lighter color, which slowly turns to a white patch. Many patches can also develop at the same time. After some time, the discoloration may stop and then restart after some time. Some people may lose all the skin pigment. The hair also loses color at the site of vitiligo.

The cause of vitiligo is not known and so it is difficult to provide a definitive vitiligo cure, but it is thought that either the body destroys the melanin or it destroys itself. But the result is loss of pigment that protects body against sun damage.

I hope this helps you better understand the causes and effects of vitiligo. You shoul seek medical advice should begin to experience this mysterious disorder.

DISCLAIMER: I do hope this helps, but please note that I am not a medical professional so you should consult with your physician before taking any medical advice from the Internet.

The exact origins of Tai Chi are hard to tie down. There are many myths about its origins. One of those says that Taoist monk Chang San-feng was disturbed by the sounds of a snake and a crane fighting in his courtyard. He then built a style based around their movements.

Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese form of movement that coordinates your body and focuses on the cultivation of internal energy. It’s aim is to harmonize the mind, body and spirit hence, promoting both metal and physical well being through relaxation. It is often described as a type of meditation that combines deep breathing and movements that exact structual alignment. Correct practice appears rhythmical, effortless and in continuous flow and it can generate surprising power almost at odds with its gentle movements.

People who regularly practice Tai Chi become revitalized, relaxed, tolerant, stronger and healthier. Tai Chi is suitable for all ages and sexes because it does not rely on strength, force or speeds. It brings benefits in many areas.

Tai chi is derived from Chinese health and longevity practices, which were merged with a comprehensive system of self defence. In the past, much of Tai Chi was kept secret, but very gradually, knowledge of the art spread throughout China. Now at the start and end of every day in villages, towns, and cities all over Chinese Asia, people can be seen practicing the slow, graceful movements of tai chi in courtyards, squares and parks.

Tai chi came to the West during the 20th century largely due to the cultural revolution when many masters fled the country. Today, tai chi is found in almost all countries, and a huge number of people practice it regularly.

It requires a high degree of concentration and mental focus. The breathing is natural, sometimes involving deep breathing, and is carefully synchronised to your movements.

Tai Chi consists of soft, relaxed (usually) slow movements and is recognised as being good for stress, balance, blood pressure and general health.It is one of the one of the Chinese Internal martial arts (neijia). The others being Hsing-I, Ba Gua Zhang and Liuhebafa(Six Harmonies, 8 Methods).

Tai Chi appeals to a wide range of people and age ranges, (teens and 20’s up to 80’s & 90’s) but it is not common for the art to be taught to children as the training can be slow for their tastes. There are a number of forms specifically targetted at the over 50’s and health problems such as Arthritis.

To get more free information about Tai Chi, Please visit Stratford Tai Chi at www.stratfordtaichi.co.uk.