T'ai chi ch'uan, ty jee chwahn, is a form of Chinese martial art. The name, also spelled taijiquan, means supreme or pronounced grand ultimate fist. The art is characterized by slow, continuous movements that harmonize with breathing to help circulate the individual's chi. According to Chinese medical and philosophical theory, chi is internal energy that runs through all living things. Although t'ai chi ch'uan may be used for combat, it is chiefly used as a method of mental and physical relaxation.