Five Element Acupuncture

T'ai Chi Ch'uan

     The T'ai Chi symbol represents the harmony of Yin and Yang. In T'ai Chi Ch'uan, we explore the movements of nature. The dynamics involved in a wave rising up a beach, pausing and then returning to the ocean.The upward spiraling growth of a tree in Spring. The outward growth of the leaves and flowers in Summer. The pause before the ripe fruit falls in Late Summer. The dropping of the foliage leaving the naked structure of the tree in Autumn. The inward spiraling of energy in Winter as the sap returns to the roots. The cycle continues. Within each T'ai Chi Ch'uan movement, we experience the seasons full cycle, from seed to fruit and back to seed. This is T'ai Chi. We learn to remember our connection with nature. We learn to see the movements of nature within our every movement.

     Though T'ai Chi Ch'uan can meet the student at any level, it builds the most internal energy when it is done with a low posture at a slow pace. As we step in a T'ai Chi step, we are stretching core musculature, ligaments and tendons. Not only are we building internal energy, we are also building the deepest muscles in our body. As core musculature is being strengthened, so too is flexibility at a core level. The ability to adapt and respond at a core level to life’s many challenges and gifts with strength, flexibility, and even grace.

"The goal is not to demonstrate strength, power or violence.
The goal is to attain serenity, tranquility, and the discovery of oneself.
It is truly an exercise of the spirit"

Master Tung Kai Ying speaking on the Chinese art of T'ai Chi Ch'uan.

Chang Sanfeng is credited with writing

 "motion is rooted at the feet, released through the legs, directed by the waist, and expressed through the fingers."

To View the list of names for the Yang Slow Set, go to this link:

http://www.knudtaichigb.taichinyt.dk/mappe1/slowgb.htm

To view the list of names for the fast set, go to this link:

http://www.knudtaichigb.taichinyt.dk/mappe1/fastgb.htm

T'ai Chi Kung

In the beginning,

Through the clouds

She Wove

Heaven and Earth,

The Tiger

Brought the Horse

To its Knees,

Through Twin Mountain Peaks

He Crossed

And Pushed,

Through to the end