Practicing Tai Chi, though its essence is extremely simple, requires a lifetime of dedication. Mastering it leads to a profound state of being.Tai Chi, when first learned, is the same set of movements; after gaining a certain level of skill, it remains the same set; ultimately, even in the realm of the divine, it is still the same set. Although the practice is consistent, the depth of understanding and the levels of mastery certainly differ as one progresses.Tai Chi pursues simplicity and seeks the essence, which sounds easy but is difficult to achieve.
The simpler something is, the harder it is to maintain, as people tend to seek novelty and excitement. However, in the pursuit of simplicity, Tai Chi accompanies us, as its practice is a return to a minimalist mode of movement, embodying the duality, unity, and transformation of Yin and Yang.In the early stages of learning Tai Chi, the requirements from a master can be quite strict, as they understand the importance of building a solid foundation. During this process, teachers can always identify flaws in your stance, and those with wavering determination may quickly give up, feeling that Tai Chi is too difficult and not suitable for them.In reality, it is not that Tai Chi is hard to practice; rather, it is one’s own fears and overthinking that hinder progress. Many people struggle to focus on their practice, distracted by various thoughts. The complexity lies within the human heart; the essence of Tai Chi at this stage is to think less and practice more.
To cultivate Tai Chi, one must dare to walk their own path, believe that slow work yields fine results, and maintain a belief in the depth of still waters. Do not be fickle; if you practice Tai Chi and find Xing Yi (Form and Intention) appealing, or if you practice Xing Yi and find Ba Gua (Eight Trigrams) appealing, you might one day feel that it’s better to just hit the gym and build muscle.If asked which is best, the answer is what suits you and what you can persist in! Otherwise, no matter how good or simple Tai Chi is, if you do not continue to practice, what use is it?Practicing Tai Chi brings a confidence that stems from inner conviction and a fulfilled soul. Regardless of how the world changes, one can find peace in their own corner, quietly practicing their form.Only at this point is it possible to master Tai Chi to its fullest.
Those who master Tai Chi to its fullest adhere to their true nature and live a natural life. They love freedom and can adeptly navigate social complexities. They avoid extremes, adhering to the middle path.Those who master Tai Chi to its fullest are profound in mind yet simple in form. They observe everything but live quietly among people.Those who master Tai Chi to its fullest are no longer bound by specific techniques. They have penetrated the essence, and their skills have reached a level of mastery, thus they distance themselves from all pretentious and attention-seeking behaviors.
Those who master Tai Chi to its fullest are rare; historically, perhaps only a few masters like Yang Luchan, Sun Lutang, and Chen Fake have come close. However, this does not prevent us from pursuing the ideal of mastery.
We need not strive for the extraordinary skills of the masters; possessing one-third of the essence of Tai Chi is sufficient for a lifetime of benefit. Achieving perfection may forever be impossible, but that is okay; it is a belief, a faith in doing what one truly desires to the fullest.
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