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T'ai chi | Tao | Yoga | Shamanism
What is t'ai chi?
T'ai Chi originates from Chinese Taoism philosophy – a system of beliefs that encourage us to live and grow with the environment around us. The philosophy advocates a combination of physical fitness and a good lifestyle for a longer lifespan. The idea is that a healthy mind and body will lead to a more fulfilling life.
What's the big Idea?
The I-Ching, also known as 'The Book of Change', which was discovered in China in 4000 BC, was a major influence on Tao philosophy. It suggested how our physical lives interact with and are affected by everyday natural forces. It pointed out that harmony could not be achieved by thinking alone – the world we live in is physical not mental. By living and practising t'ai chi, we could truly connect between the two.
What does it do for the body?
T'ai chi is a combination of gently flowing and rotating static postures based on a series of moves thought to stem from Taoist hermits who lived in the mountains of China. Many of the hermits were former soldiers and were expert at a range of martial art styles, elements of which they incorporated into their daily fitness regimes. Their belief was that a regime of physical fitness and a good lifestyle would lead to a longer life. The moves are designed to improve mobility, flexibility and breathing. The overall effect is increased suppleness, energy and balance, leading to a boosted immune system.
What does it do for the mind?
T'ai chi aims to unclog the mind by focusing on communication between us, nature and other people. Many of our day-to-day problems stem from poor communication with others. T'ai chi encourages us to listen to others – applying the Ting Jing, or listening skill – so that we can understand more of what a person is saying and so be able to talk to each other more effectively. It also believes that problems are not just there to be overcome but that they can be valuable tools in helping us move forward. That is why Taoism has also been called 'The Way of Water'; teaching us that we should not resist life but, like water, flow around obstacles.
Words of wisdom
'Surrender to the cycle of things. Give yourselves to the wave of the Great Change. Neither happy nor afraid. And when it is time to go – then simply go without any unnecessary fuss.' (T'ao Ch'ien, 4th-century Taoist)
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