Beginners of Tai Chi often quickly discover that while Tai Chi appears easy, it is difficult to learn. Not to mention the more technically challenging movements (such as “lower stance”, stepping, and generating force), even many movements that seem slow and steady can become chaotic when practiced, often leading to confusion between the upper and … Read more
1. In practicing any Tai Chi movement, one must divide the body into Yin and Yang, distinguishing between emptiness and fullness, with expansion and contraction. When the left side contracts, the right side expands; when the right side contracts, the left side expands; when the upper body contracts, the lower body expands; when the lower … Read more
1. Mr. Yang Chengfu——”Tai Chi Chuan is the art of softness containing hardness, with needles hidden in cotton. The postures should be upright and complete, calm and relaxed, with movements light, agile, and round, purely guided by the spirit.”“2. Mr. Cheng Man-ch’ing——”Absorb the energy of heaven, connect with the power of the earth, and extend … Read more
1. Do Not Use Unnecessary Force: Generally, Tai Chi practitioners explain that unnecessary force refers to the clumsy strength that ordinary people possess, known as zhuo li (clumsy force) – this is not true strength (or nei jin – internal strength). The existence of clumsy force hinders the generation of true strength, so it is … Read more
Tai Chi is based on the principles of Yin and Yang, utilizing the theories of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) meridians and osteology as its physiological foundation. It can open the meridians and invigorate Qi and blood. With over 150 million practitioners worldwide, Tai Chi is an aerobic health exercise that uniquely integrates Qigong, martial arts, … Read more
Tai Chi, without a doubt, is a form of martial art, originally developed as a technique for combat. However, it is also a perfect combination of the dialectical thinking of the Chinese nation with martial arts, arts, and guiding techniques. It represents a high-level human culture and serves as a martial exercise for strengthening the … Read more
Upon seeing this title, many may think I am denying the health benefits of Tai Chi! But you are mistaken! I not only believe that Tai Chi can promote health and fitness, but it also possesses unique health benefits that distinguish it from other forms of exercise! What I want to discuss is whether the … Read more
The Essence of Tai ChiFollowing Nature’s Way The saying goes: “Tai Chi is fundamentally natural; human intention should not be forced.” Nature is the lifeline of Tai Chi. The great outdoors is the source of human survival. “The Dao follows nature”; only by acting in accordance with natural laws can one learn and practice Tai … Read more
1、虚灵顶劲 (Xu Ling Ding Jin) Practicing Tai Chi requires 虚灵顶劲, where the spirit is concentrated at the top (This concept suggests that “顶头悬” (Ding Tou Xuan) and “神贯顶” (Shen Guan Ding) are two different mental activities. “顶头悬” is also known as 悬顶 (Xuan Ding), 提顶 (Ti Ding), 拔顶 (Ba Ding), and 吊顶 (Diao Ding). The … Read more
One First Practice Opening This “opening” is something we are all familiar with. Tai Chi should start with practicing large circles, which means stretching the major joints in our body. The purpose of stretching is to relax; if the joints are not open, it is difficult to relax, which is one of the goals. The … Read more