What are T’ai Chi and Taijiquan?
What are the benefits of T’ai Chi?
What is a T’ai Chi ‘form’?
I have mobility problems. Can I still practise T’ai Chi?
What is Qigong?
Is T’ai Chi a religion?
Will I learn self-defence?
How do I prepare for a T’ai Chi class?
What are T’ai Chi and Taijiquan?
T’ai Chi has come to mean a series of slow, graceful movements originating in China, and practised primarily for health reasons; it is one of the ‘soft’ martial arts. The words ‘T’ai Chi’ are often translated as ‘Supreme Ultimate’, or something beyond description. When applied to martial art, T’ai Chi is more properly called ‘T’ai Chi Ch’uan’, ‘Ch’uan’ meaning literally ‘fist’, or fighting art. Taijiquan means exactly the same, in a different spelling system. Although not strictly correct (and mixing up two spelling systems!), I use the terms T’ai Chi and Qigong, now widely recognised in the West.
T’ai Chi is represented by the Yin-Yang symbol (above), which illustrates the complementary forces at work in the natural world. Each contains the germ of its opposite and transforms into the other in a continual cycle, just as night becomes day, winter changes into summer, and back again. Similarly, in the movements of T’ai Chi there is balance and flow; strength comes from yielding, and giving out energy requires rest and recovery – reflecting these natural cycles.
What are the benefits of T’ai Chi?
Known as ‘moving meditation’, T’ai Chi has a positive impact on mind and body. It demands the practitioner’s complete attention, calming the mind, inducing relaxation and improving concentration. The movements are not strenuous, yet can greatly improve strength and suppleness, and the resilience and flexibility of joints and muscles, particularly in the back and legs. It can create a marked improvement in posture, co-ordination and balance. It may also improve cardiovascular and respiratory function, and enhance the immune response.
A T’ai Chi ‘form’ is a specific sequence or series of movements; it can also mean a single movement. Although some movements may originate in the 13th century, the sequences currently practised were probably devised two or three hundred years ago. There are several styles, identified with different family lineages. The Yang style, developed by Yang Lu Chan in the 1800s, is one of the most widely taught.
The original Long Form, sometimes called ‘Standard’ T’ai Chi Ch’uan or ‘108 forms’, consists of three sections and takes about 25 minutes to perform. The Short Form, ‘Simplified’ T’ai Chi Ch’uan or ’24 forms’, was devised in China in the 1950s, and takes around five minutes. The benefits of T’ai Chi can be experienced as soon as one begins to learn, but most students find it takes at least six weeks to learn the Short Form, and a year to memorise the Long Form. To experience the full richness of the form can take several years of practice.
I have mobility problems. Can I still practise T’ai Chi?
People of all ages and levels of fitness, including those with mobility problems, can practise T’ai Chi. Many movements can be adapted for people who need or prefer to sit. It may help to look for a teacher who can offer one-to-one sessions.
Qigong (or Ch’i Kung) means ‘energy work’ and is applied to a wide range of exercises many of which combine simple, repeated movements with rhythmic breathing. It is often taught alongside T’ai Chi, but is also taught as a separate discipline or applied as a healing art.
No – but it can provide the calm and focus needed for spiritual practice, or any form of discipline.
My classes include martial applications for some of the moves, and will give you the poise and control needed if you wish to develop these skills elsewhere.
How do I prepare for a T’ai Chi class?
No special equipment is required to practise T’ai Chi. Loose, comfortable clothing (such as a tracksuit, or T-shirt and cargo pants or leggings) should be worn, with flat, thin-soled shoes or bare feet. It is best not to eat a heavy meal shortly before a session, though a light snack is fine. It is a good idea to bring a small bottle of water or fruit-juice to the session.