What is Taiji Chuan?
Taiji Chuan is often
translated as 'The Supreme Ultimate.' It can also mean 'The Great
Pivot.' Even though Taiji is only about 400s year old, the sources for
its philosophy are ancient. Briefly, Taiji's roots can be traced to
‘The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine,' The I Ching, the
writings of Confucius and Lao Tzu's ‘Tao Te Ching.' Traditionally the
legendary Chang San-feng, a Taoist immortal who lived between the 12th
and 14th centuries, is credited as being the father of Taiji. For a
complete discussion on Taiji's historical origins, see Chapter 7 of Arieh's book, ‘Beyond the Closed Door.'
As a form of exercise, Taiji is characterized by
slow, flowing movements that are performed in a relaxed, conscious
manner. Taiji is a many-faceted exercise; a complete physical
conditioner, a moving meditation, an art of self-defense and a way to a
long and healthy life. When practiced correctly each day, Taiji
fosters harmony and balance through a deep awareness of one's body,
emotions and mind. While there are many forms of Taiji of different
lengths and with variations on the movements, the basic principles
remain the same: slow, soft and relaxed, shifting of weight from one leg
to the other, the movements being directed by the waist and maintaining
an upright body.
Taiji is different from other forms of exercise in
that it emphasizes the internal systems of the body (mind, organs,
sinews and joints). The central idea is to perfectly align and to open
the body's external and internal networks so that the Chi (qi), internal
energy, can build and flow naturally. To accomplish this goal the mind
must be fully engaged on three levels; the external choreography of the
form, the internal connection of joints and sinews and the conscious
directing of Chi. As ‘The Supreme Ultimate' exercise, Taiji
re-educates the mind, body and emotions to respond to practical living
conditions in a healthier and more appropriate manner.
Taiji is available to almost everyone. In the
beginning it requires relatively little strength and thus the weak, the
infirm and the elderly can benefit as well as the young and the
physically fit. Taiji does not require exorbitant fees, special
clothing or equipment. It can be practiced in a small space. All one
needs is an experienced teacher and the perseverance to learn the
movements and principles. Then, practice, practice, practice.
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