This portion of our web guide focuses on Tai Chi, a Chinese martial art that combines slow, gentle movements, controlled breathing, and a meditative mindset to promote physical and mental well-being.
Also known as Tai Chi Chuan, Tai Chi is a traditional Chinese martial art that has evolved into a popular form of exercise and meditation. Slow, deliberate movements characterize the martial art, which focuses on balance, flexibility, and inner peace.
The origins of Tai Chi are rooted in ancient Chinese philosophy and cosmology, particularly the concepts of Yin and Yang, which represent opposing yet complementary forces in the universe. These principles are central to Daoism, a philosophical and spiritual tradition that emphasizes living in harmony with the Dao, or the fundamental nature of the universe.
Legend attributes the formation of Tai Chi to Zhang Sanfeng, a Taoist monk who lived during the 12th century. According to the legend, Zhang Sanfeng was inspired by observing a fight between a snake and a crane, which led him to develop a martial art that emphasized softness and yielding over brute strength.
Its development can be traced back to the Chen family village in Henan Province of China during the 17th century. Chen Wangting, a retired military officer, is credited with formalizing the Chen style of Tai Chi, which combined martial arts techniques with principles of traditional Chinese medicine and Daoist philosophy.
Over time, Tai Chi evolved into several distinct styles, each with unique characteristics and forms. The most prominent styles are the Chen Style, the oldest form, characterized by its explosive movements and low stances; the Yang Style, which is the most widely practiced today, known for its slow, graceful movements; the Wu Style, which emphasizes small, compact movements and a forward-leaning posture; and the Sun Style, which combines elements of Tai Chi, Xingyiquan, and Baguazhang, and is known for its smooth, flowing movements.
Several organizations around the world are dedicated to promoting and preserving Tai Chi. Some of the most influential are the International Tai Chi Chuan Association, the World Tai Chi and Qigong Day organization, and various national Tai Chi federations.
Tai Chi competitions are held globally, with events ranging from local tournaments to international championships. These competitions often include forms (solo routines), push hands (a two-person exercise focusing on sensitivity and balance), and weapon forms (using traditional Chinese weapons such as swords and staffs).
Whether practiced for self-defense, health, spiritual growth, or competition, Tai Chi offers a path to greater harmony and balance in life.
Online resources for Tai Chi are appropriate for this category, although retail sales sites should be submitted in the corresponding Shopping & eCommerce area.
Recommended Resources
American Tai Chi and Qigong Association
Formerly known as the American Tai Chi Association, the ATCQA is a national, non-profit organization created to promote Tai Chi and Qigong as a complementary and alternative medicine, and as physical activities for fitness and overall wellness. The ATCQA also represents and serves Tai Chi and Qigong teachers nationwide, and educates the public about the practices. Membership levels and fees, certification and accreditation for instructors, schools, and practitioners, and contacts are posted.
http://americantaichi.org/
The Circle of Chi is an online and in-person community focused on the ancient practices of Tai Chi Gung and meditation. It aims to help individuals explore their inner selves, achieve greater peace, and cultivate mindfulness through expert guidance and supportive teachings. Master Lama Rasaji leads the Circle of Chi, and online courses, videos, and live events are offered to assist members in enhancing their physical, mental, and spiritual well-being through Tai Chi and meditation.
https://circleofchi.com/
NIH: Tai Chi: What You Need to Know
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is part of the U.S. Dep't of Health and Human Services and is the primary federal agency for conducting and supporting medical research. Its section on Tai Chi defines the practice as involving a series of slow, gentle movements and physical postures, a meditative state of mind, and controlled breathing. Its use for older adults, and those with Parkinson's Disease, stroke, osteoarthritis, and heart failure are outlined, along with its use in pain relief.
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/tai-chi-what-you-need-to-know
T'ai Chi Chih is a form of moving meditation consisting of nineteen movements and one pose, designed to circulate and balance the body's intrinsic energy, known as Chi. Unlike traditional Tai Chi, T'ai Chi Chih is not a martial art but focuses on promoting physical, personal, and spiritual health. The movements are soft, flowing, and easy to learn, making it accessible for people of all ages and fitness levels. Its teachers, online classes, and information about becoming a teacher are set forth.
https://taichichih.org/
The online resource for learning Tai Chi offers a variety of content, including training and teaching tips to help learners progress faster in their practice, basic moves and poses defining foundational techniques with photos and videos, beginner guides with information on short forms and other beginner-friendly content and advanced techniques on weapons forms and other advanced practices. Also included are product reviews and information about meditation and Qigong.
https://taichibasics.com/
The TCF is a not-for-profit educational organization that develops and promotes programs that enable people to learn to practice and ultimately teach Tai Chi Chuan and its internal principles. Its history, an overview of the organization, its curriculum, the benefits of Tai Chi, and contacts are provided. Other resources include demonstration videos, online classes, in-person classes, an informational blog, members-only pages, teacher-only pages, and links to other online resources.
https://www.taichifoundation.org/
Founded by Dr. Paul Lam, Tai Chi Productions offers a variety of resources for learning and practicing Tai Chi. They provide instructional DVDs, books, and music specifically designed to enhance the practice of Tai Chi with the intent of improving health and wellness through Tai Chi for Health programs. Included are DVDs, digital products (online streaming Tai Chi lessons and e-books), Tai Chi music MP3s and CDs, Tai Chi books, clothing, and exercise charts. Workshops are also featured.
https://us.taichiproductions.com/
