Giving Up The Near To Seek The Far
A look at one of the more enigmatic sounding examples of the Classics of Taijiquan.
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Yang Style Curriculum; A Brief Introduction. Part 2
In Part Two of my brief introduction to the Yang curriculum, I go into a little more detail concerning its five major elements, solo form, tuishou, Three-step tuishou, Da Lu, and Sanshou.
Yang Style Curriculum; A Brief Introduction
The curriculum of the Yang Style is very specific in its orientation towards the development of footwork and timing, and the cultivation of “jing” (internal force). I explain how this goal is approached in a “step-by-step” manner.
Introducing The Classics
The Classics of Taijiquan are an important part of the tradition and their understanding is vital to real comprehension of the art. I discuss the topic in general, my history and qualifications concerning it, and give a brief explanation of one of the more esoteric examples.
Two Roots of Taijiquan. Part 2
In last week’s talk, I traced the confusing definitions of root enough to establish that, although conventional gung-fu and Taijiquan use the same term to describe the same general result, an ability to “receive” the force of the opponent in such a way as to maximize the redirection of that force vertically into the feet, …
Two Roots of Taijiquan. Part 1
This short lecture outlines how the concept of root relates to the practice of “double-weight,” specifically as it is used as a deliberate method by a great majority of other Oriental martial arts. In part two I will discuss the term specifically in relation to Taijiquan.
Short Form or Long Form?
This topic concerns the proper use of the solo form, and how this relates to the length and sequence of the movements. There is much made of the decision to study either the “short” or “long” forms extant, and I am attempting here to pinpoint the true focus appropriate to practice, and how this is …
Practical Application of Taiji Theory
This video, made in 2013 in Moscow, shows the physical manifestation of the three scalar dimensions of taiji “virtual objects” that I describe in The Theoretical Basis of T’ai Chi Ch’uan: the metal, wooden, and air balls. This, which I consider to be definitive of the art, is demonstrated in the context of tuishou or …
What Are Empty Steps?
This week I am posting another short video“What Are Empty Steps.” It addresses at the same time something that I call disposable behavior, an important element in the methodology of Taijiquan. Please also check out my short companion article Empty Steps. I intend to continue with this format of weekly pairings of video and written …
A Short Talk About Breathing
I just published a short video called About Breathing. This little talk concerns itself with the normal or tidal breath. It references some facts of special relevance to Taijiquan, particularly as concerns the execution of the solo form. Please take a look. I am planning to publish videos every week. If you are interested, please …