Tai Chi - taijiquan

You can see the Chinese characters for taijiquan - "supreme ultimate boxing" above. Tai chi is an ancient Chinese martial art that involves a combination of postures that link together into a "form." "Tai chi quan is a complete internal healing system" (Erle Montaigue, 2003). Diligent practise will result in increased health and vitality, harmony with nature and ensuing happiness, joy and energy - spiritual, mental and physical health, coupled with success (Chee Soo, 1979). Who could ask for more?

The Supreme Ultimate - Tai Chi

Tai Chi means Grand or Supreme Ultimate in Chinese. It can be spelt in different ways in English depending on the system of translation from Chinese script to English. The "chuan" or "quan" part means fist. Tai Chi is embodied in the tai chi "Yin yang" symbol which relates to Taoist philosophy. The Tao is the ordained Way of the entire Cosmos - the unchangeable Direction - having the sole function of fulfilling the Will of God. Creating and maintaining harmony between heaven and earth according to the Laws of the Universeit created order from chaos and gave birth to the balance of the two influences Yin and Yang which form an integral part of everything.

By getting closer to nature you will become more receptive and perceptive of the Tao. Your tai chi practise will help you to do this because by playing taiji you will learn to balance yin and yang within your body and your movements and find oneness- serenity, peace, health and harmony. You will also learn a martial art codified within a series of posture names expressed and connected through graceful and sometimes explosive movements differing depending on the style of Tai chi that you practise.