Chi and Body mapping and muscle power - my latest thoughts on a western interpretation of Chi and how it is of value in Tai Chi – at last seem to be coming together in a sensible form – perhaps others will find this English description of value along with the many others either translated from Chinese or based on them. I have tried to come at the subject from a western cultural and science viewpoint by understanding and re-interpreting from first principles as well as drawing on present scientific knowledge – it is of course limited by the extent of my own experience and ability – but hopefully it will be enough to stimulate thought as a help to others involved in the same process.
Tai chi principles
My 2nd golf lesson yesterday – chipping to the green – this time using hips – just as in Tai Chi with some conscious adjustment needed to accommodate the mechanics of the club but basically pulling it through from the centre as one pulls a sword or ones arms in silk reeling – controlling power and body position by sensitivity of the feeling. Ultimately a case of creating an intention ( to put the ball in the hole ) and then letting the unconscious mind/body get on with it. A good example of a complex action requiring consistent perfection – achieved with mindfulness and simplification according to basic principles – very much like practicing a Tai Chi form – with instructor James providing skilled correction and an excellent example to model – good fun!
This year we are working with The Letchworth Centre for Healthy Living to promote World Tai Chi & Chi Kung Day on April 28th at Rosehill, Hitchin Road, Letchworth. SG6 3NA
The program includes:
Mini taster sessions of Reiki, Cranial Osteopathy, Shiatsu Massage, Seated Massage, Reflexology, from 10:00-2:00
T’ai Chi, Chi Kung, Alexander Technique & Gentle Movement Workshop from 1:00-4:00
To celebrate National Tai Chi Day, this workshop and mini therapies will provide an opportunity to learn more about techniques and their benefits.
The afternoon workshop will include:
Principles of Alexander Technique to support T’ai Chi /Chi Kung practice with flowing T’ai Chi dance movement, individual hands on Alexander Technique; T’ai Chi, Chi Kung, Yiquan exercises; T’ai Chi postures and forms; meditation and demonstrations.
Half day workshop – £20
Mini taster therapies – £10 for 20 minutes
Tutors – Ian Deavin and Judy Hammond
For further information or to book call 01462 678804 /jaqui@letchworthcentre.org
Tai Chi is becoming very popular these days and it seems to me that there is something of the “magic bullet” about the way Tai Chi is regarded – a bit like going to the doctor – “take this course of Tai Chi and everything will be better” – indeed 16 weeks or whatever of Tai Chi classes can have a significant effect – but that really is just the start. The point is to learn the skill of understanding one’s body and using it better so that our own internal systems can heal us and keep us healthy. The concept of Chi is part of that but something that each of us comes to understand on our own. No magic – just hard work and understanding.
I have noticed over the years that I have had a number of students with sporting interests - such as golf or running – who have told me of their improved sporting performance following a period of Tai Chi practice. I think the first I remember was one who said he reduced his handicap by 3 or 4 strokes – and another who altered his running gait and so relieved a leg problem. This seems to be a common Tai Chi experience – for example with Ballet dancers learning Tai Chi to improve their balance and fluidity – and is summed up in the expression ” you can put Tai Chi into anything, but you can’t put anything into Tai Chi”.
Given a history of 400 years plus of studying the human body and it’s movement in relation to other people and the rest of the world - it is not surprising that Tai Chi already encompasses most aspects of the human experience and so forms a core resource – a repository of refined information of great value to all paths of human interest.
I’ve had some experiences and pause for thought recently that have lead me to believe that the important part of Tai Chi is the way of moving it promotes – a sort of segmented, sequential and centred, wavelike spiraling – which when allied to all the other Tai Chi principles leads to what is refered to as Internal Power.
And that the path to this movement is through greater awareness of our internal feeling which we find through our practice.
