Crooked Necks

Archive for September 11th, 2009

What is the art of T’ai Chi and how is it practiced? T’ai Chi is a Chinese system of boxing exercises and meditative movements that dates back to ancient times. Meaning “supreme ultimate fist,” Tai Chi Chuan originated as a form of martial art. But rather than relying on the swift aggressive kicks and power punches that are seen in various other forms, it incorporates slow, thoughtful, nuanced movements to confound attackers and opponents.

It is believed that a monk named Chang Seng Feng was the founder. According to legend, Master Chang once dreamed that a crane and a snake were ensnared in a fight. Regarding the dream as a divine sign, he launched a study of it and developed the 13 postures that comprise T’ai Chi. This early beginning of Tai Chi has developed into the art practiced today.

A few years after Master Chang presented his 13 movements, numerous other masters created their own unique forms. As a result, a variety of styles became popular, with three particular types favored: the Chen, Yang and Wu styles. Of these three, the Yang form became a favorite; meanwhile even more styles continued to emerge and had their own followers.