Tai Chi
Tai Chi means "Grand Ultimate". It is an ancient Chinese philosophical concept, used in a similar way westerners have come to use concepts like 'holistic' or 'comprehensive'. Tai Chi has many aspects and applications, but at its core it can be thought of as the human method of following the Tao, or 'the way', where the ultimate goal is returning to the source, or wu chi. Recognizing the opposing but complimentary forces of the universe (yin and yang), tai chi represents both the method and the natural state of balance and harmony inherent in everything in the universe.Tai chi quan, or "Grand Ultimate Fist", is a style of internal kung fu associated with the Taoist branches of the Shaolin temple system, most notably that of Wudang Mountain. Attributed to the legendary Chan Sang Feng, tai chi quan evolved from temple styles to family styles, and became the martial art of scholars because it took years of study and philosophical inquiry to become proficient. Tai chi quan balances the hard and soft aspects of kung fu. Thus it is said to be "hardness wrapped in softness".
The soft, or yin, aspect of tai chi quan is epitomized by the slow flowing movements of the tai chi form. Practiced each morning by thousands in parks and gardens throughout China, and now by many all over the world, the tai chi form provides a low-impact exercise system that confers superior health and fitness benefits, and may be practiced by persons of virtually any age or fitness ability. The hard, or yang, aspect of tai chi quan, however, is a powerful self-defense system intended to maximize speed and power while protecting the defender through proper balance and efficiency of movement.
Demian Gover - 2012
Peaceful Mountain Way Kung Fu
