This book teaches what is still the most commonly known tai ji quan style the Yang family tai ji quan, with a focus on the 40 Movements Routine. A distinguishing feature of the modern Yang style tai ji quan style is its simple, gentle movements, and can be learned and practiced by people of virtually all ages and body constitutions. As a means of health cultivation, tai ji quan enhances coordination, strength and flexibility, and harmonizes both the body and mind, which is why it is known to promote mental and physical well-being as well as prevent disease.
Table of Contents
Chapter 1 Introduction Section 1 Basic Concepts of Tai Ji Quan Section 2 Theory of Tai Ji Movement 1. Tai Ji Holism 2. Concept of Constant Motion 3. Concept of Equilibrium Chapter 2 History of Tai ji Quan and Establishment of Different Schools Section 1 Origin of Tai Ji Quan Section 2 Formation and Development of Tai Ji Quan Section 3 Establishment and Development of Different Schools Section 4 Popularization of Tai Ji Quan Chapter 3 The Principles of Tai Ji Quan Section 1 Natural Laws of Life: Tai Ji and Yin-Yang Theory 1. Opposition of Yin and Yang 2. Interdependence of Yin and Yang 3. Reciprocal Growth and Decline of Yin and Yang 4. Inter-transformation of Yin and Yang Section 2 Source of Life Energy: Tai Ji and Qi Section 3 Master of Life Activities: Tai Ji and Essence-Spirit Theory Chapter 4 Tai Ji Quan and Health Section 1 Effect of Tai Ji Quan on Heart Function Section 2 Effect of Tai Ji Quan on Spleen-Stomach Function Section 3 Effect of Tai Ji Quan on Lung Function Section 4 Effect of Tai Ji Quan on Kidney Function Chapter 5 Characteristics of Different Styles and How to Choose a Style Section 1 How to Choose a Style as a Beginner Section 2 Characteristics of Chen Style Tai ,Ji Quan Section 3 Characteristics of Yang Style Tai Ji Quan Section 4 Characteristics of Wu Style Tai Ji Quan Section 5 Characteristics of Wu Style Tai ji Quan Section 6 Characteristics of Sun Style Tai Ji Quan Chapter 6 Basic Postures and Requirements of Tai Ji Quan Section 1 Basic Postures of Tai Ji Quan 1. Basic Hand Formations 2. Basic Body Postures 3. Basic Footwork Section 2 Basic Requirements for Tai Ji Quan Practice 1. Requirements for Body Movements Correct Body Posture Relaxation, Peace and Naturalness Waist is the Key for All Movements Smooth, Flexible and Coherent 2. Requirements for the Mind Correct Physical Structure Faintly Discernible 3. Requirements for the Breath Natural Breathing Abdominal Breathing Section 3 Common Problems and Solutions Found in Teaching Tai Ji Quan 1. Inability to Relax: Causes and Solutions …… Chapter 7 Yang Style 40 Movements Tai Ji Quan Routine Chapter 8 Common Mistakes in Tai Ji Quan Practice Appendix Yang Style Tai Ji Quan Routines