The Taijiquan Treatise Explained: Part 1 of 3 (太極拳論-1)
Tai chi as a philosophy is based on oneness with nature and oneness with the universe. In the beginning, just like the universe, it is boundless and limitless. The universe is governed by the relationship of opposites co-existing and complementing each other. This philosophy is the essence of Yin and Yang.
Push Hands - Chen Style - Part 1
Among the three styles of push hands patterns that we practice, Chen style is the most intricate, and physically challenging. Not only are you in contact with your partner with your arms, you are also connecting with your legs. This means that your partner may potentially push you off-balance via the legs if your stance is not strong enough.
Push Hands - Wu Style - Part 2
In our previous blog, we discussed the unique aspects of Wu Style push hands and learned to apply them via the Wu Style single hand push pattern. We now continue to learn the Wu Style push hands pattern using both hands.
Push Hands - Wu Style - Part 1
Unlike the other styles of Tai Chi where the emphasis is on an upright posture, Wu Style leans forward and backward using the back leg as counterbalance. This makes Wu Style push hands very interesting as the leaning provides extra range and extension that may be unexpected to the opponent.
Push Hands - Yang Style - Part 2
The same basic principles that you apply to the single hand push pattern should also be applied to the double hands push pattern. The significance of these principles is more pronounced as the external interferences have now doubled. With all four limbs committed to the movement, it is much easier to make mistakes like losing your balance, breaking your arm bows or forgetting to relax and sink.
Push Hands - Yang Style - Part 1
When we start our Push Hands training, one of the first exercises that we learn is the Yang Style Single Hand Push. The movement pattern is very simple, but within this simplicity is a host of challenges that takes a long time for our body to learn; as it requires strict disciplinary control of all body parts.
Tai Chi – Meditation for those who cannot sit still
As our lives become busier and more complicated, an increasing number of people find meditation a great tool to cope with the day to day stresses such as work, finance and relationships. Tai Chi, as a martial art, incorporates many of the foundations of meditation in its practice. Tai Chi is therefore commonly described as "moving meditation."
3 reasons why Qi Gong is the best online workout
Without an instructor to keep an eye on proper techniques, online classes can increase your chances of injury. So it is important to choose an exercise that is inherently safe. Here are the reasons why Qi Gong is by far the safest exercise that you can do on your own.
Long Pole exercises for Tai Chi training
The long pole is an important training tool for serious tai chi practitioners. The exercises train the internal core strength of the person and as well as the core’s connection to the whole body. Just a few minutes of working out with the long pole will completely exhaust even a fit athlete.
The importance of Tai Chi principles for Health
Tai chi focuses on internal energy and using internal or core muscles by initiating all movements from the dantian. This makes tai chi extremely beneficial to the well being of the human body. Tai chi improves both our internal energy while also providing physical fitness for our limbs and body. Tai chi benefits our whole body both inside and out.
One Tai Chi Student’s Perspective
The modern approach to Mental Health considers three domains of the human being. These three domain views of mental health is called The Biopsychosocial Model. It refers to the three domains of a person when we want to consider how to optimize the health of the whole person. The three domains are: BIO is for Biological; Psycho is for Psychological and Social refers to the interaction with others and the sociocultural environment.
Vital Energy Focused 神 聚
Once you have acquired the other four tactics, you eventually return to Focused Vital Energy. When vital energy is focused, it is continuous and uninterrupted. Training your internal force returns vital energy.
Energy is Whole 勁 整
The energy from the whole body practices to unite as one. Distinguish clearly between substantial and insubstantial.