Taijiquan-the art of blending yin and yang energies.

Taijiquan (t`ai chi chuan) is an ancient Chinese martial art usually practiced very slowly in the west for health and relaxation rather than self-defence.

It is justly famous as an internal style; that is, energy and ground connection are utilised rather than muscular force.

Its graceful, yet powerful, serpentine movements look very beautiful, and embody the traditional Chinese Taoist philosophy of yin and yang.

Taiji was first systematised and recorded by a soldier and scholar called Chen Wang Ting, in the late Ming / early Ching dynasties. All subsequent styles grew from this original Chen style. You could say that Taiji is the Chen family business! To practice Chen Taijiquan is to embark on a long voyage of self-discovery and improvement, involving physical, mental, and spiritual elements. You will also have a lot of fun trying to master Chen's unique spiral movements.

Men and women of all ages can take up Taiji, and persistent and patient practice will yield great treasures, both physical and mental. Partner work is practiced to complement solo training and to instil some of the principles and applications of Taiji. You will also be taught "peng" and "silk-reeling" exercises to help with grounding, co-ordination and looseness in the short, long and weapons forms.

all pictures are copyright© of taiji & qigong.com®