Chen Style Tai Chi Cultivating Internal Energy Method

by Master Cheng Jincai The Chen Style Tai Chi Cultivating Internal Energy Method comprises eleven practices or breathing exercises. Throughout all these exercises, stand up straight, your head centered over your spine, your shoulders relaxed and centered over your hips, and your knees slightly flexed. Your weight should be evenly distributed across your feet, not too much on your toes, not too much on your heels. The Methods Method 1: Wuji Stance Chi Guiding Method The first method is the Wuji Stance Chi Guiding Method. It is also the first movement of Tai Chi Chuan. To begin, raise the left foot and move it sideways to the width of the shoulder. Slightly bend your knees and distribute your body weight evenly. You should feel balanced over your feet. Relax your arms and shoulders. Clear your mind and relax your…

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The Ethics and Moral Virtues of Chen Style Tai Chi Martial Arts

by Master Cheng Jincai PREFACE Around the world today, there is increasing interest in martial arts. Competitions are commonplace. More and more people are realizing the advantages of practicing martial arts, such as improved health and development of self-defense skills. It is common knowledge that exercise is a key factor in maintaining physical and spiritual health. According to the World Health Organization, 55% of all morbidity is related to lack of exercise. The maintenance of good health is beneficial not only for the person, but also the family, and even the entire country. So exercising is very important for every person. With increasing participation in martial arts, it is vital to understand the ethical and moral conduct expected and required of the martial artist. It is said that “Without standards, no advanced understanding can take shape.” It is for…

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THE EIGHT BASIC METHODS OF CHEN STYLE TAI CHI CHUAN

by Master Cheng Jincai   Nearly all books on Tai Chi Chuan mention about the eight basic methods of practice: Peng (ward-off), Lu (rollback), Ji (push), An (press), Cai (grab), Lieh (Break), Zhou (elbow strike), and Khou (shoulder strike). However few has systematically discussed the theories and principles of these methods. I suggest that the eight basic methods and the five elements are the pillars and foundations of Tai Chi Chuan; similar to the strokes of calligraphy. Only by detailed analysis of the eight basic methods and the five elements will the students understand the concepts of this martial art. Cheng Yi and Cheng Hao, famous Chinese philosophers from my clan, once said “ Learn enough to be able to practice, practice enough to understand, understanding results in improvement.” Once the concept of the eight basic methods is mastered,…

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