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Taoism
Tai chi employs insights gained from 'Taoism'.
Taoism is concerned with
balancing oneself with the
Way/flow/rhythm of nature and gaining power as a consequence.
The aim is to live harmoniously, be
happy and at ease.
There is nothing religious about Taoism; it is more akin to
science.
Balance
The
yin/yang concept is
Taoist.
It inspired the creation of tai chi: the art of
balance.
Zen
Taoism's offshoot 'Zen' is the art of spontaneous
being.
Zen questions the value of words and thoughts, and
the folly of attempting to render reality using
measurement and names.
Direct action and raw experience are valued. Life cannot be conceived.
It can only be lived.
Philosophy &
religion?
Tai chi does not subscribe to or promote any form of organised
religion, philosophy or faith.
The study of Taoism and
Zen can be likened to physics or chemistry.
They are more about science than religion in the conventional sense.
Belief system?
Taoism and Zen are not belief systems.
Both are simply concerned with the observation of reality.
If you think of Taoism as being an 'ism', as being some sort of
religion or philosophy, study further.
You have perhaps misunderstood.
Pragmatic
Philosophy is often concerned with speculation and opinion. Religion
concerns belief, rituals and dogma.
Taoism fits neither of these classifications.
You do not have to believe in anything.
Truth
Reality just is; belief is simply not required.
As a discipline, Taoism is evidentiary, practical, pragmatic.
It concerns the immediate moment.
Concepts, opinions, theories, speculation, metaphysics, superstition and
folklore are not Taoist at all.
Intellectual?
You do not have to be an intellectual to
read and appreciate the
philosophical aspects of the art.
Most of it is just common sense.
The main aim is to:
• Increase your mental flexibility
• Improve memory
• Develop concentration
• Encourage new ways of thinking
• Consider alternatives, choices and options
• Cultivate awareness
• Look more deeply into things
By adding a philosophical element to your
tai chi, your life will be
affected in a more meaningful, profound way.
The Tai Chi Classics
Across the years, various masters have expressed their martial
expertise in writing.
These works are referred to as 'The Tai Chi Classics'.
They represent the essence of the art.
The Tai Chi Classics
highlight the
considerations necessary for the correct
study of tai chi.
This wasn't kickboxing with the lads, this was
nearly religion.
(Robert Twigger)
Putting principles into practice
Tai chi serves as a means of understanding the
principles and
insights taught by Taoism.
It is a functional, practical way of discovering the
ancient wisdom for
yourself.
Instead of being asked to believe in something, or subscribe to a
philosophy, you are simply invited to do the art.
By working in
relationship with other people you can determine
new ways of using your body, your emotions and your mind.
Students quickly find that long-held opinions, habits and
misconceptions are
gently set aside.
Mental health & wellbeing
It is very healthy for the mind to contemplate
challenging material.
Contemplation involves intense consideration of a specific subject.
Rather than gloss over a matter, you commit time to deliberately think it
through; thoroughly and completely. SThinking long and hard about something can provide new insights and
unexpected outcomes.
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Page created 2 March 1995
Last updated
16 June 2023