What is Tai Chi Ch'uan

The term Tai Chi occurred for first time in the book of change. I Ching states that Tai Chi is contained in change, which brings forth the two energies, yin and yang. The concept of Ch'uan can be defined in three ways:

1. Fight with empty fists
2. Collecting life's energies internally
3. Balancing between both yin and yang energies

Chen Xin was the first to use the term Tai Chi Ch'uan as a collective term. The term Ch'uan also means balance that is why one weights things in order to determine their significance. As defined by the Chinese, Tai Chi Ch'uan imples the highest and ultimate goal to achieve which extends harmony and balance...thus coming into balance with the universe.

According to Wu Yuxiang, Tai Chi Ch'uan is to allow the "stream of energy " to flow by means of mental guidance in such a way that no barriers or blockages are created. This will preserve and strengthen the overall wellbeing of the person performing the exercises. Mental guidance is cultivated by practicing clearing the mind, using your mind to guide your breath. Proper breathing in Tai Chi Ch'uan means inhaling and exhaling at the right moment.

The guideline for inhaling and exhiling can generally be said to be the following:

When pulling back, inhale
When going forward, exhale
When reaching up, inhale
When reaching down, exhale

Beginning students should keep these rules in mind but first give their full attention to learn simple movements. The mental aspect of Tai practicing Ch'uan is that one should be completely relaxed, rounded shoulders, bent knees, beautiful lady wrist, turn in the waist, separation of yin and yang movements, and relaxed breaths. Tongue should be touching the roof of your mouth.