Five Winds Tai Chi Chuan (Glasgow)

A very brief introduction…….. T'ai Chi Ch'uan is a Chinese martial art. Often referred to as simply Tai Chi, it is probably best known by the hand form, a set of inter-linked postures performed in continuous, flowing movements. However, Tai Chi also includes many other aspects, eg weapons forms, various push hands partner work, martial training routines, application & self defense, etc. Tai Chi is practiced extensively around the world for the purpose of health and relaxation alone. Regular daily practice can improve co-ordination, concentration, confidence, self awareness, general fitness and health. However, Tai Chi offers a wider agenda for those interested in martial application and self defense, and in the study of theory. Tai Chi requires relaxation during practice, important to effective application, but also recognised as beneficial to health with regular and prolonged practice. It is based upon the principle of Yin Yang theory - for example, soft overcoming/blending with hard, inner firmness and outer softness, or response to change. This principle leads directly to the method of martial application. Tai Chi Chuan is often described as the principle in action. The origins of Tai Chi Chuan are not entirely clear, and reportedly date back to a Taoist monk, Chang San Feng (born Song Dynasty circa 1200CE). There are influences from other areas of Chinese culture beyond Taoism however, for example military, Chinese Boxing Arts, Confucianism, and more. (These influences are reflected in The Tai Chi Classics, a must for serious practitioners). Tai Chi Chuan is an effective means of self defence if diligently practiced, but further study can lead to thinking beyond that of simply fighting. It is probably fair to say Tai Chi practiced today emerged over the 19th / early 20th century, the best known styles being developed through family lineage in the Chinese tradition of martial arts - Chen, Yang, Wu, Sun, Hao.