Principles

"Four ounces move a thousand pounds" is a technique in Tai Chi Quan for applying force. It is a metaphorical expression of the artistic aspect of striking in self-defense, as well as an advanced method in the realm of self-defense in Tai Chi Quan. Although it may seem straightforward to use force against an opponent, it actually contains rich internal principles and is profound in nature. It incorporates concepts such as leveraging, exerting force, combining forces, inertia, center of gravity, leverage, waist and hips, reflexes, and the principle of yielding to effectively defend oneself. It embodies the philosophy of achieving victory through the use of less force against greater force, slowness against speed, and weakness against strength. It represents the mystery and profoundness of self-defense in Tai Chi Quan, as well as the interpretation of the profound Tai Chi…

The Nine Essentials (九要论) The martial arts classic created by General Yue Fei during the Southern Song Dynasty in between 1103-1142.  "The Nine Essentials" is a martial arts classic that not only summarizes the general principles of martial arts from a theoretical perspective but also presents a comprehensive and eloquent system. It not only guides the practice of martial arts in general but also provides an avenue for artistic enjoyment. "The Nine Essentials" consists of nine sections that have a perfect internal numerical and logical structure. The content includes: One Unity, Two Qi, Three Joints, Four Extremities, Five Elements, Six Harmonies, Seven Advances, Eight Body Movent, and Nine Steps. The First Principle In all things, there is a unity amidst diversity, and in every division, there is a harmony. Therefore, in the vast expanse of the world, from all…

What should I pay attention to when practicing Tai Chi if I have practiced other styles of martial arts before? First, you need to identify the differences between Tai Chi and the martial arts styles you previously practiced. It is crucial to understand these differences before practicing Tai Chi to avoid unconsciously incorporating the feelings and habits from your previous styles into Tai Chi. Once you have identified the differences, especially the main ones, you can consciously avoid mixing them. For a considerable period of time when starting to learn Tai Chi, it is recommended not to simultaneously practice the styles you previously learned. Otherwise, you may unintentionally bring elements of your previous styles into Tai Chi. In Chinese martial arts, the distinction in "jin" (power, force) between different styles is a significant dividing line, so it is particularly…

About Tai Chi Chuan, Grandmaster Yang Chengfu had a concise and straightforward statement: "Those who practice Tai Chi Chuan do not move their hands. If they move their hands, it is not Tai Chi Chuan." He also said, "The root is in the feet, issued from the legs, controlled by the waist, and expressed through the fingers. The hands must follow and cannot move independently."