ABOUT T'AI CHI

T'ai Chi Ch'uan is a unique method of moving meditation. Correctly practised, its forms and postures are beneficial to many aspects of health, comprise a complete martial art and offer a genuine way to align ourselves with life and nature (the Tao). During the second half of the Twentieth Century, T'ai Chi (also Taichi or Taiji) has spread from its birth place in China to be probably the most widely practised system of daily exercise in the world. The exact roots of T'ai Chi are still debated. In the modern era, five main styles evolved which were named after their founders, and later styles developed from these. Which ever style we study, the movements should express the T'ai Chi principles, such as sinking and relaxing, upright posture and continuous flowing movement. The principles are few, the T'ai Chi Classics say, but the permutations are endless.

What is beyond doubt is that the study and practice of quality T'ai Chi enhances all aspects of one's life. Dedicating time and effort to one's practice pays dividends in terms of better health, improved posture, greater co-ordination, a calmer mind and an increased ability to deal effectively with the pressures of a busy life. Often we also find a growing sense of equanimity within our relationships.

T'ai Chi is a truly effective martial art. However, to develop the skill and sensitivity required to reach this level takes many years, and so is not suitable for those requiring quick results. Rather than building up external strength to block or defeat what appears to be against us, we learn to yield and follow what arises: for instance allowing softness (Yin) to counter hardness (Yang), and advancing (Yang) when our opponent retreats (Yin).

Through the sustained practice of partner work as well as study of the Form we educate our bodies and quieten down the mind. From this more natural and relaxed state we learn to respond directly to things as they really are, rather than reacting to our ideas of what is happening. After only a short time of practising T'ai Chi we feel tangible benefits. After several years, we begin to notice old habits falling away; leaving us with a deeper feeling for what my teacher's teacher calls The Natural Process.