five winds tai chi chuan (glasgow)
Glasgow
A very brief introduction…….. T'ai Chi Ch'uan is a Chinese martial art. Often
referred to as simply Tai Chi, it is probably best known by the hand form, a set
of inter-linked postures performed in continuous, flowing movements. However,
Tai Chi also includes many other aspects, eg weapons forms, various push hands
partner work, martial training routines, application & self defense, etc. Tai
Chi is practiced extensively around the world for the purpose of health and
relaxation alone. Regular daily practice can improve co-ordination,
concentration, confidence, self awareness, general fitness and health. However,
Tai Chi offers a wider agenda for those interested in martial application and
self defense, and in the study of theory. Tai Chi requires relaxation during
practice, important to effective application, but also recognised as beneficial
to health with regular and prolonged practice. It is based upon the principle of
Yin Yang theory - for example, soft overcoming/blending with hard, inner
firmness and outer softness, or response to change. This principle leads
directly to the method of martial application. Tai Chi Chuan is often described
as the principle in action. The origins of Tai Chi Chuan are not entirely clear,
and reportedly date back to a Taoist monk, Chang San Feng (born Song Dynasty
circa 1200CE). There are influences from other areas of Chinese culture beyond
Taoism however, for example military, Chinese Boxing Arts, Confucianism, and
more. (These influences are reflected in The Tai Chi Classics, a must for
serious practitioners). Tai Chi Chuan is an effective means of self defence if
diligently practiced, but further study can lead to thinking beyond that of
simply fighting. It is probably fair to say Tai Chi practiced today emerged over
the 19th / early 20th century, the best known styles being developed through
family lineage in the Chinese tradition of martial arts - Chen, Yang, Wu, Sun,
Hao.
