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| What is ... taijiquan? |
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The study of taijiquan("tai-chi") challenges an individual both mentally and physically. Based on the Chinese philosophy of yin-yang balance, it requires the student to be strong yet soft, focused yet relaxed, and active externally yet calm internally. From it's origins as a martial art during the mid 1600's taijiquan has evolved into several distinct styles. While taijiquan remains a formidable martial art, nowadays it is mainly studied for its ability to devlop and maintain mental and physical health. Taijiquan is characterized by relaxed, slow and continuous movement from one position to another in a linked sequence, guided by concentrated thought. It looks easy and has been described as an effortless exercise. In fact, it is really quite difficult to learn, requiring patience, perserverance, and daily practice in order to make progress. Some simplified styles can be learned by almost anyone, while the more demanding styles will challenge even young, very athletic people. The health benefits of taijiquan practice have been well known in China for many years and are increasingly being studied scientifically in the USA. Among these benefits are increased strength and flexibilty in the spine, improvement in balance, and greatly increased leg strength. The level of concentration involved in practice also develops all of the positive aspects of meditation, including relaxation, clarity of thought and an overall feeling of well being. Stress related physical disorders such as digestive problems, high blood pressure and chronic back pain also respond to persistant correct practice. Taijiquan is often offered as a time limited six- or eight-week "course". A short course only serves as a very brief introduction to taijiquan. The skills required to do it correctly must be mastered slowly and patiently under the supervision of a skilled teacher. Some inexperienced teachers will just have you follow their movements, but you can't learn taijiquan that way. An experienced teacher will devote most of the class time to clearly explaining the how and why of each movement. When correctly taught, learning the movements is only the beginning. Advanced training blends the philosophy with the study of human physiology and eventually develops self defense skills. Lastly, books and video tapes may inspire you, but you can't learn taijiquan from them. To learn taijiquan correctly, locate an experienced teacher and devote yourself to a long period of training. Source: www.syracuse.com Aug 10, 05 |
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