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Tai-chi
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(T'ai-chi, T'ai-chi Ch'uan, Taiji,
Taijiquan)
Tai-chi is the traditional Chinese martial art which
has gained worldwide popularity for its therapeutic
benefits and graceful movement. Equally a mental and a physical
practice, Tai-chi combines methods of regulating posture, breathing,
intention and awareness for the development of strength, coordination,
strong circulation, and acute sensitivity. The long, flowing solo
set of movements continues to be the centerpiece of the system but
does not exclusively represent the art of Tai-chi. The complete
method includes a variety of stationary and moving, solo and partnered
exercises.
Tai-chi is named for the principle of the harmonious
interplay of active and regenerative forces, yin
and yang, in which softness and yielding are indivisibly linked
with strength and assertiveness. Yielding is held to be the penultimate
virtue of Tai-chi practice, and it is the pursuit of this quality
that produces the profound sense of relaxation in Tai-chi practitioners.
However, this principle does not lead to collapse but to a deeply
rooted strength growing out of acute sensitivity and mind-body integration.
Learning to follow environmental forces, rather than struggle against
them, is pursued toward the end of successful and efficient action
in the world.
Tai Chi first won renown over a century ago for its
effectiveness as a martial art. The name,
Tai-chi, is an abbreviation of the complete name, T'ai-chi Ch'uan.
The word, ch'uan, denotes a Chinese boxing art, most of which have
a long association with health and traditional medical arts. Tai-chi
is popularly associated with slow, gentle movement but can be practiced
with punctuated, forceful movement as well. Stylistic variations
of Tai-chi are associated with various family names: Chen, Yang,
Wu, Hao, and Sun. While somewhat different in practice, all styles
embody the same principles. Generalizations about styles will always
find exception and any style can be practiced moderately for health
or more assiduously for self defense.
Push-hands is the most
popular (but not only) two-person Tai-chi exercise for developing
sensitivity, coordination and stategic skills. It challenges players
to maintain body integration while in mutual contact. Push-hands
helps develop proper alignment, yeilding, and a strong root. Partnered
exercises include fixed step, moving, and a circular patterns practiced
in short or long sets with fixed choreography as well as free style
by advanced practitioners.
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