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Instant Tai Chi: The Ultimate Fitness Program
When I first developed an interest in and researched Tai chi, I was presented with, and a bit overwhelmed by what I found. Most sources began the description of the well-known Chinese exercise system, with a long and complex history. There was also a long list of masters going back hundreds of years. Then there were the many different forms to choose from, and a general need to memorize many different movements to get it all in order and done properly.
I knew there had to be a better way.
One day I read an article about Neijia (内家), a term usually translated as internal martial arts. This caught my attention. Having created a meta-analysis of the great Taoist work, the Tao te Ching I had been seeking a way to apply these teachings in a physical form — something Taoist in sensitivity with a yoga-meditation feeling to it.
To describe Neijia Tai chi simply is to focus on simple movements with specifically spiritual, mental, or qi-related aspects. This approach was quite distinct from the “external” approach most Tai chi students focus on — the physiological aspects.
I spoke to one of my Mystic Tao students, himself a respected “Sifu” (Master/Teacher) in the Wing Cheung Tradition.
He told me, that based on my background in yoga, dance, and meditation and my clear intention, I could probably create a simple and effective movement form influenced by Tai Chi.
