Category: Tai Chi Discussion
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From Recipe to Reflex: Mastering Tai Chi’s Spontaneous Flow
One of the most important characteristics we strive to develop in Tai Chi is movement with instinctive spontaneity—the ability to act without conscious thought…
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Stillness in Motion
Tai Chi classes often attract new students because of Tai Chi’s reputation for improving health and well-being. Those interested in staying healthy are drawn to the idea of reducing stress, improving balance and flexibility, sleeping better, and perhaps even…
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Condemnation Without Investigation: A Tai Chi Perspective
Recently, upon my return from China, I had a conversation with someone of Chinese descent that left me both surprised and reflective…
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Tai Chi: Form, Function, or Both?
The Hidden Strength Behind Beautiful Movement Recently, I had an extraordinary opportunity that deepened my understanding of Tai Chi in ways I hadn’t expected. Through the generous introduction of my Chinese friend Wang Xu (Helena), I spent a remarkable day with her Tai Chi teacher, Wu Laoshi, and his instructor,…
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Tai Chi and Yoga: Bridging Ancient Practices
In a recent online article, Chennai-based Tai Chi instructor George Thomas drew a parallel between Yoga and Tai Chi, saying, “Tai Chi is a combination of Hatha Yoga, Pranayama, and Raja Yoga.”
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Revitalizing martial arts
A young Tai Chi master from central China’s Henan Province is revolutionizing the way the next generation perceives this ancient martial art.
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Every Day Is a Good Day for Tai Chi!
We had some really nice weather this morning—not too cool and not hot at all—perfect for starting the day with Tai Chi. A simple comment sparked the following insight…
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Tai Chi Blogs
Tai Chi is more than just practice—it’s a shared journey of discovery. By exchanging insights and experiences, we grow together and deepen our understanding. If you’re eager to explore more, check out this curated list of some of the most popular Tai Chi blogs for inspiration, wisdom, and new perspectives.
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The Hidden Throw in Tai Chi:
In the Tai Chi form, there’s a subtle yet powerful movement that follows the flowing sequence of Grasp the Sparrow’s Tail. It’s a change of direction—a pivot that seamlessly transitions into Hold the BaGua Fish. At first glance, it’s just a turn, but dig deeper, and you’ll find it’s actually…
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What’s in a Name? The Language of Tai Chi
…The word Qi is often incorrectly translated as “energy.” This term should not be confused with the character 极 (Jí or Chi), which appears in the name Tai Chi Chuan (太极拳)…
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Gansu Province Traditional Cane form
About ten years ago, a visitor from China joined my Tai Chi class in Redding to watch and participate. We quickly became friends, and she warmly invited me to meet her teacher if I ever traveled to China. As luck would have it, my girlfriend and I were planning a…
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As long as we’re moving…
Driving wisdom applied to life wisdom or is it the other way around?
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Tai Chi and Your Knee
Tai Chi is known for its flowing, low-impact movements, making it an excellent practice for strengthening and protecting the knees. By emphasizing balance and gentle transitions, it provides a supportive environment for joint health—even for those with prior injuries.
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The Push in Tai Chi
The Push in Tai Chi. Tai Chi practice at Maiji Shan, China. Picture copyright Redding Tai Chi.
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The Role of Rising and Sinking in Tai Chi Practice
Proper rising and sinking motions are essential for Tai Chi practice. It is important to always work on coordinating the rising and sinking movements so they happen simultaneously.
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Stepping Like a Cat
This post introduces the concept of “stepping like a cat” in Tai Chi and provides practical, step-by-step instructions for a related exercise. The writing is accessible for readers at various experience levels, and the structured layout—with clear steps and explanations—enhances readability.
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Learning to Step in Tai Chi
Learning to Step in Tai Chi After completing the initial movements of the Tai Chi form, we take our first step. From the Hold the Ball position, we center our weight onto the right leg and prepare to step forward. It is important to remember to step directly forward and…
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Tai Chi Myths
One of my pet peeves is Tai Chi instructors who misrepresent information to potential students regarding Tai Chi. A case in point is a recent online advertisement offering Tai Chi classes that stated: “Tai Chi is a 4,000-year-old practice and one of the best-known martial arts…
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Is the Short Form Better?
Recently, I came across a video on YouTube where the instructor mentioned that the Yang-style long form is very difficult to learn. I disagree because…
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Tai Chi Sword
The Yang Style Sword Form was demonstrated by Master Wang Zhi Yong in August 2019 at a week-long Tai Chi seminar he gave in TianShui (city), Gansu Province, China.
Redding Tai Chi 