Chen Style

What Is Zhao Bao Tai Chi? My Visit to Zhao Bao, Henan

Zhao Bao Tai Chi is a traditional form of Taijiquan associated with Zhao Bao, a small town in Wen County, Henan Province. But if you visit Zhao Bao today expecting a street filled with Tai Chi schools, old masters, and martial arts tourists, you may be surprised. I certainly was. 　　Zhao Bao is very close to where I grew up. That may sound strange considering how long it took me to actually go there with the intention of looking for Tai Chi history. When something is close to home, you often assume there will always be another chance to visit. You pass the road, hear the name, know roughly where the place is, and never really stop to look. 　　Eventually, I decided to do exactly that.

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December 11, 2024

Stories & Experiences

I Spent 5 Years Studying Tai Chi in Chen Village, China

　When I first went to Chenjiagou, part of me believed I was traveling to the source of Chen Tai Chi. In a geographical and historical sense, that was true enough. But after living there for years, I understood that finding the village was much easier than understanding the martial art. 　What I found wasn't a secret technique hidden behind a gate. What mattered was having time—time to practice, watch other people train, make mistakes, change my opinions and slowly understand things that a short seminar could only introduce. After enough years, Tai Chi stopped feeling like something I simply “went to practice.” It became part of ordinary life. 　I originally traveled to Chen Village because I wanted to get closer to the roots of Chen-style Tai Chi. More than five years later, I realized that reaching the village had been the easy part. The real journey was learning how to use that time well, how to keep practicing after the excitement wore off, and how to look beyond forms, famous names and stories about tradition to understand what training actually changes in you.

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December 8, 2024

BeginnerGuide

Beginners in Tai Chi Must Pass Through Five “Gates”

When starting Tai Chi, beginners must first pass the "Mind Gate," which means deciding on their commitment: "yes" or "no." New practitioners often struggle with inner conflicts: “Should I really learn Tai Chi?” “What exactly is Tai Chi?” “Is it useful?” Thoughts like, “Maybe I'll start when I have more free time,” or “Am I too old for this?” are common. Thoughts influence beliefs, beliefs shape attitudes, and attitudes drive actions. To succeed in Tai Chi, beginners must first resolve these mental doubts. In reality, Tai Chi, a recognized national intangible cultural heritage, is based on the principles of balance and harmony from Confucian and Taoist philosophies. At its core are the concepts of yin-yang and the five elements. Tai Chi combines exercises for physical health, inner peace, self-defense, and breathwork, creating a soft yet strong martial art. It promotes a deep connection between people and nature and offers boundless benefits for those willing to embrace it.

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December 6, 2024

Other Martial Art / Shaolin Quan

Northern vs Southern Shaolin: History, Styles & Key Differences

Not a lot people know that there is two Major shaolin temple exist, like the name, one from norther and one from southern China, So why is that ? The martial arts world is full of styles and traditions, but few are as iconic as Shaolin Kung Fu. Known for its intense training, spiritual undertones, and mind-boggling athleticism, Shaolin Kung Fu is famous worldwide. But did you know there’s more than one Shaolin style? Yep! In fact, the world of Shaolin splits into two main branches: Northern Shaolin and Southern Shaolin. Both are ancient, both are powerful, and each has its own distinctive approach and philosophy. So, if you’re curious about what sets these two styles apart, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into why Northern Shaolin and Southern Shaolin are unique, and how each style has carved its own path in martial arts history.

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December 4, 2024

Other Martial Arts / Other Martial Art

What Is Muay Thai? Muay Thai vs Muay Boran & Why It’s So Effective

If you’ve ever watched a Muay Thai fighter in action, you’ve probably noticed that this isn’t your average martial art. Known as the “Art of Eight Limbs,” Muay Thai has a brutal reputation for a reason. Practitioners don’t just throw punches and kicks—they use elbows, knees, shins, and fists, turning their entire body into a weapon. But beyond the explosive strikes and relentless conditioning, Muay Thai holds a rich history, deep-rooted techniques, and unique training that make it one of the most powerful and effective combat sports in the world. In this article, we’re going to break down exactly what makes Muay Thai so deadly, why it’s loved by both fighters and fitness enthusiasts, and what you should know before stepping into the world of this ancient martial art. So grab a water bottle, settle in, and let’s dive into everything you need to know about Muay Thai.

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December 2, 2024

HealthMartialBenefits

Tai Chi and Psychological Trauma: 8 Steps to Healing

Tai Chi offers a unique and holistic approach to healing psychological trauma. Its emphasis on mindful movement, deep breathing, and body awareness makes it an ideal practice for trauma survivors looking to reconnect with their bodies and calm their minds. By practicing these eight Tai Chi steps regularly, trauma survivors can begin to release stored tension, reduce anxiety, and regain a sense of control over their lives. The gentle, flowing nature of Tai Chi makes it accessible to individuals of all fitness levels, and its focus on mindfulness helps create a safe space for healing. While Tai Chi may not be a standalone cure for psychological trauma, it offers a valuable complement to other therapeutic approaches, such as counseling or meditation. Ultimately, Tai Chi provides trauma survivors with a way to move through their pain, reclaim their strength, and find peace within themselves.

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November 30, 2024

Bajiquan / Other Martial Art

What Is Bajiquan? Why I Still Recommend It After 8 Years of Training

After more than eight years of practicing Bajiquan, attending seminars, training with different people, and feeling its power firsthand, I still describe it in very simple terms: Bajiquan is fast, direct, explosive, and remarkably powerful at close range. I have practiced other Chinese martial arts, but Bajiquan has always felt different to me. It does not need a large amount of space to express power, and when the body mechanics begin to work correctly, the force can arrive much faster than people expect. 　　My interest in Bajiquan, however, started long before I understood any of that. It began when I was a child watching martial arts movies. Like many kids growing up around Chinese martial arts culture, I did not know the difference between real training and movie choreography. I only knew that certain movements looked different. Some martial arts appeared light, flowing, or acrobatic. Bajiquan looked as though someone had suddenly driven his entire body through another person.

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November 26, 2024

HealthMartialBenefits

8 Steps of Tai Chi for Reducing Migraines

Tai Chi offers a holistic approach to managing and reducing migraines. Its gentle movements, focus on proper posture, and emphasis on mindful breathing make it an ideal practice for those who suffer from chronic migraines. By incorporating these eight Tai Chi steps into your daily routine, you can potentially reduce the frequency and severity of migraines while promoting overall well-being. The beauty of Tai Chi lies in its accessibility. It doesn’t require special equipment or intense physical effort, making it suitable for individuals of all fitness levels. Whether you are new to Tai Chi or an experienced practitioner, this ancient practice holds the potential to provide relief from migraines while enhancing your quality of life.

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November 24, 2024