Tai Chi

Showing posts with label Mind. Show all posts

The Chi in Tai Chi Gong and What Makes it Work

Chi is a large and multifaceted concept that is deeply rooted in the Chinese culture. It applies both to the tangible, such as the body, and to the intangible aspects such as feelings. Even inanimate objects can be said to contain different qualities of chi in that they evoke certain responses in the people viewing them. The understanding of chi is usually an intuitive process that lacks the scientific, mechanical explanation. And so to give it a straight forward scientific definition is a difficult task.

Although a clear definition escapes, it is still a powerful and useful concept. In Chinese medicine chi is used to explain how the different parts relate to each other. In Chi Gong it is used for healing purposes. In martial arts such as Tai Chi Chuan it is used as a tool to connect the bodily energies.

Here we shall focus on how it can be used in Tai Chi Gong, the authentic practice of Tai Chi Chuan. Tai Chi refers to the supreme balance that emphasizes the unification of body/mind/energies. Gong indicates a deep skill. Chuan refers to something that is practiced for the purpose of self-defence.

Within martial arts chi has a quality similar to air and can be seen as carrying energy. It is that which mediates the expression of energy. One of chi's important aspects is that it is moved, or lead, by mind and intention. Most of us can experience this by giving attention to a particular body part, such as the hand. By focusing attentively with the clear intention of warming it up, it is not too difficult to raise the temperature of that hand. With some practice most are able to succeed. Having the feedback of a sensitive thermometer can be quite satisfying in this case.

In Tai Chi Gong chi is used more extensively. It is something that can be felt, enhanced and used to guide our bodily movements, strengthen our body, and used for self-defence purpose. To understand how it is done it is helpful to learn about the concept of Jin. Jin is seen as a force, something that can be felt physically and the effects of which can be seen. Jin is mediated and led by chi. And so, as chi and our ability to manipulate it increase, the force jin grows in strength and flexibility.

This leads us to one of the core teachings and practices of Tai Chi Gong. This is the teaching of the three internal unifications that make the practice possible. The way to see it is that the spirit/attention moves the mind/intention, the mind/intention moves the chi, and the chi moves the jin. Thus in learning to manipulate chi we need to integrate spirit - mind - force.

In Tai Chi Chuan one is trained to learn new patterns of reaction. For instance, when faced with outside force, the normal reaction of an untrained person is to resist. In true Tai Chi Chuan one learns different techniques focused on the spirit/attention, mind/intention and chi. We may then choose to re-direct the incoming force. But the force that is then exerted on the other person does not come from our physical resistance and muscular strength. Often it comes from the opponent's chi and has been carefully controlled and re-directed, leading to a physically felt jin force. This is what is meant by using the mind instead of the body.

Thus in Tai Chi Gongone learns how to strengthen and control chi, often for self-defence purposes. However, its core and most important practice, the one that makes it all possible involves the three internal unifications, where spirit, mind, and force are integrated in a supreme balance.

Reference:

Zang Yun, "Qi in Taijiquan Applications", p 14 in "T'ai Chi - The International Magzine of T'ai Chi Ch'uan", Vol. 31, No. 4

Author Description :

Mattias Lindkvist has been practicing Tai Chi for over two decades. He is passionate about Tai Chi Gong, the true art of Tai Chi Chuan and has started a website where he shares his findings on authentic Tai Chi Chuan.

Tai Chi Uplifts External and Internal Systems

Sphere: Related Content

What is an external system? What is an internal system? The answer lies beyond its difference.

Tai Chi is a form of exercise that incorporates between the inner and outer aspect of a human being. When one says that is affects the external system, it means that Tai Chi settles within the depths of a human’s body strength. One that exhibits efforts and movements and is equated with the aspects of his or her environment. The external system involves how the body initiates movement and react to how outside factors is expressed.

While the internal system, as opposed to the latter, means that the mind’s conscious directions and the spirit’s way of rejuvenating itself, as it performs, can affect the entire body. It affects the body’s way of interacting with its environment.

Even though these two aspects may differ with the way they interact, there is purpose. When the body’s external systems can no longer define the solution, the internal systems come in. Through Tai Chi, both systems are equal.

One unique factor that can be noted about an internal system is that once the mind develops and directs energy, it circulates within the body even if it seems almost impossible. This is one key factor to acquire energy from within without producing intense feelings, eliminating nervousness, and promoting tranquility without experiencing lethargic reactions. Unlike the external systems, which require perspiration in order to work, using the mind as a tool to is very effective in terms of body relaxation and meditation. Exercising using the mind require complete concentration and needs sustained attention.

This is where Tai Chi comes in. Combining the two most essential aspects of a person’s human form can increase a person’s resistance to possibilities of breaking down. There are several types of exercises that can relieve tension and stress. However, these exercises are only concerned with the temporary view. It can’t promise relief in an everlasting manner. Re-accumulation of stress and tension can still be possible through repetition of routines made daily intended to target a person’s emotional, mental and physical patterns.

But if Tai Chi is managed in a person’s life, it will not only teach that person how to conquer the stressors in his life but also manage to maintain the positive aura without moving a muscle. Increasing one’s awareness of Tai Chi can reorient the mind, body and emotions to stay healthy and respond to stress in a proper way without inhibiting signs of anxiety or tension.

Many of those who admire Tai Chi appreciate it in every respect. As one advances in time, he will notice that the results of Tai Chi is indispensable compared to exercises that needs further retaining. Tai Chi can be done even in the absence of equipments. All you need to be equipped with is a steady heart and a decisive mind.

In the continuous fight against the different ailments of the body, it is important that people recognize Tai Chi’s valuable contribution. Different parts of the body are developed. For example, breathing is enhanced because oxygen can freely move about through the help of Tai Chi’s principles.

Not only is the pattern improved but it is clearly visible to the one practicing the art that Tai Chi is a very effective way for the external and internal systems to communicate as one and work as one.