If you follow the classical pattern,
you are understanding the routine, the tradition, the shadow
- you are not understanding yourself.
(Bruce Lee)
Unfamiliar
If you have never practiced tai chi before, the
qigong,
neigong,
form and
self defence exercises will seem unusual
and surprising.
Tai chi is based on the observation and implementation of natural laws.
These natural laws are not widely understood or practiced in our culture.
Strength without effort,
yielding to force, going with the flow... these things are quite
different.
Be patient and allow the
meaning
to unfold - don't force anything to happen.
With time, it will occur by itself.
Becoming aware
Learning tai chi requires that the student becomes physically aware to a new
degree.
Heightened sensory awareness is necessary for you to benefit from the health
aspects of the training as well as the self defence.
You will learn to use your vision more effectively and develop an unusual
sensitivity to physical sensation.
Your own body will feel completely different as you experience its movement
with a greater immediacy and awareness.
Tai chi is about change, about being receptive and open.
Past the
beginning
In
order to practice the intermediate, experienced and advanced syllabus, you need
to have a very strong foundation.
The remaining material is exciting and
comprehensive.
You will learn how to deal with an armed attacker, work against another tai chi
person and rely entirely upon jing for power.
The journey has only just started.
Page created 13 March 2000