A Deeper Look at Tai Chi Chuan

By Shifu Donna Oliver

Even though Tai Chi Chuan has been around for some time now here in Canada, still relatively little is really known about this art form.

Most people take up Tai Chi for its numerous health and stress reduction benefits, which is a good thing, of course. However, there is much more to this ancient Chinese art, which, as with any other skill or art form, requires time investment and discipline.

"Tai Chi" translates as 'Absolute' or 'Great Extremities' or that which is defined as yin and yang harmoniously balanced so there is no separation. "Chuan" means fist or boxing. Tai Chi Chuan is a Taoist martial art system based on the theory of balancing yin and yang so that we may come to completion. Within humans, this is the mind (including spirit) and the body. Externally, it is ourselves and the Universe. The intricate movements, which have both energetic and martial applications, combined with a refinement of conscious intent, lead us to higher levels and eventually to the Tao or Absolute. Tai Chi creates an ability to look very closely at oneself... often closer than we feel comfortable with. Therein, however, lies the remarkable way in which it can change our lives.

We must look at all aspects of this art if we want to fully understand its benefits. For instance, many people have an aversion to the martial aspect of Tai Chi, linking this concept with pain and death. It's ok as long as it's just for health. Butthe genius of Tai Chi lies in its ability to teach us how to embrace the positive and negative, all aspects of life and its companion, death, and in doing so allows us to accept, forgive and embrace all that comprise Spirit.

Tai Chi promotes dynamic balance in both mind and body and requires total mind-body co-ordination and awareness. It teaches us to move and respond appropriately to all incoming energies from all sources. Whether it be a strike, a verbal attack, a handshake or a kiss. Without judgements or regrets. If we can learn to perceive these energies for what they truly are, we never have to question. Nor do we make mistakes. We respond to what is just as the tree moves in response to the wind. We learn to accept that just as the days pass to make way for a new day, so must we move on. Instead of fruitlessly trying to control our lives, we can learn to flow with it, around it and through it harmoniously.