Tai Chi 13 Postures 1.0.3

This video series offers an insightful exploration of the Thirteen Postures of Tai Chi Chuan, starting with the foundational Eight Moving Patterns: Peng, Lu, Ji, An, Cai, Lie, Zhou, and Kao. Following this, practitioners are introduced to the Five Steps: forward, backward, left, right, and center.

Tai Chi Chuan is characterized by its slow and methodical movements which serve as a form of moving meditation. Through consistent practice, individuals can achieve mental tranquility and connect with their spiritual center, fostering a holistic sense of well-being. The gentle movements promote physical relaxation and enhance the flow of Qi (inner energy) and blood circulation, both of which are vital for health maintenance and recovery from illness.

While contemporary practice often emphasizes the therapeutic benefits of Tai Chi in terms of balance, strength, and vitality, its origins as a formidable martial art are sometimes overlooked. Tai Chi Chuan, translating to 'Grand Ultimate Fist', was historically recognized as an ancient internal Chinese martial art focused on short- and middle-range combat techniques.

In China, t'ai chi ch'uan is classified within the Wudang tradition of Chinese martial arts that harness internal power (jing) through Qi. The roots of the Yang form's basic postures can be traced back through Wudang Mountain to the Shaolin Temple and are derived from movements associated with "Chang Quan" (Long Fist). A significant figure in this development is philosopher Xu, Xuan-Ping, who is credited with creating a long Kung Fu style comprising 37 forms around 800 AD. Some notable Tai Chi movements from this tradition include:

• Play the Guitar
• Single Whip
• Step Up to Seven Stars
• Jade Lady Works the Shuttles
• High Pat on Horse
• Phoenix Flaps Its Wings

As "Taiji Chang Quan" experienced various adaptations over time, it eventually transformed into what we now recognize as Taijiquan. Other contemporaneous styles such as "Heavenly-Inborn Style," "Nine Small Heavens," and "Acquired Kung Fu" share similarities with early Taijiquan forms. Fundamental principles including softness, adherence, and leveraging an opponent's momentum were established within these precursor styles. Additionally, the teachings of Bodhidharma at the Buddhist Shaolin Temple around 550 AD regarding the mind's role in guiding Qi to energize the physical body are regarded as foundational to all Internal Martial Arts, Tai Chi included.

The lineage of Dr. Yang's Tai Chi traces back through the Yang family via Grandmaster Kao Tao and his mentor Yue Huanzhi, an indoor disciple of Yang Chengfu.

For those interested in furthering their practice or exploring more about Tai Chi Chuan’s rich history and techniques, we invite you to engage with our content at YMAA Publication Center.

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