Where did Taoist Tai Chi Come From?
Taoist Tai Chi was created by a Taoist monk, Moy Lin-shin, who, in 1970 immigrated to Toronto, Canada. He based his system upon the Yang family long form of Tai Chi Chuan. Movements were supplemented by Lok Hup Ba Fa, another internal martial art.
Since its inception, it has grown and there are now hundreds of centers world-wide. Despite the use of the word "Tai Chi" in Moy's version, it is not, in fact, genuine Taijiquan. (Note: In this article, Tai Chi Chuan and taijiquan are used interchangeably.)
How Taoist Tai Chi Varies from Traditional Tai Chi Chuan
- Taiji or Tai Chi means "Grand Ultimate" and is a reference to the "essence of existence", is a term founded in ancient Chinese culture and thought; it is not exclusive to Taoism.
- The "chuan" or "quan" portion of Tai Chi Chuan or Taijiquan means "fist" or "boxing". Essential to Taijiquan is the concept of "yi" or intention, which is the ability to focus the mind upon a martial, fighting outcome. This aspect has been removed in Daoist Tai Chi.
- Taoist Tai Chi is a modification of Yang style Taijiquan with a greater emphasis upon stretching, bending, flexibility and other elements of exercise. Some of the Taoist movements do contravene the basics of Taijiquan posture and movement, both decreasing martial efficiency and possibly causing harm. Over extended stretching involving the back or leg turns and weight changes without proper knee alignment cause injuries. Although, generally, Taoist Tai Chi does appear to recognize that everyone has a different capacity for mobility and allowances are made.
- Taoist Tai Chi offers its clients the opportunity to learn meditation and study Taoist texts. Moy established the Fung Loy Kok Institute of Taoism, which is dedicated to the dissemination of Taoist spiritual principles. Some critics complain of a "cult like" attitude. None of which is part of authentic Taijiquan.
- Some of the Taoist Tai Chi literature, including their website, implies that ancient Taoist spirituality was the original goal of Taijiqaun, which may be true of other martial systems; however, Taijiquan was created as a family fighting art by Chen Wanting,1600 to 1680 AD. When Moy uses the term "Tai Chi", he inappropriately over-applies the Daoist spiritual interpretation.
Spirituality is not Part of Traditional Taiji
The intent of this article is not to discredit Taoist Tai Chi, only to inform that it is not authentic Tai Chi Chaun because it veers too far from core martial arts principles. That is not to say that everyone who practices traditional Tai Chi Chuan needs to become a trained fighter. Rather, that both Moy Lin-shin's Tai Chi and Tai Chi Chuan offer proven health benefits, but the intricacies of each system are divergent.
Taijiquan, is not a Taoist art; it is different in that it does not offer spiritual teaching as a way of life. Practitioners will learn background information about traditional Chinese perceptions regarding the flow of energy. This detail provides useful imagery, but doesn't require any sort of belief or philosophic commitment.
Decide Which Version of Tai Chi is Appropriate for You.
Finally, the term Tai Chi does not imply a consistent universally followed practice, which is very confusing for someone who is interested in starting because Tai Chi Chuan is being praised by medical and fitness proponents for its proven healthful impact. So how does someone choose a place to learn?
Most organizations offering programs will describe their philosophy, but it is up to the individual to determine if a particular group's offerings are going to meet their needs. Taoist Tai Chi might be appropriate for those looking for gentle exercise and stress relief or who are interested in spiritual teachings. Chen style is often more appropriate for others seeking fitness and martial skills. The only way to determine if a program is right for you is to do your research, then try a class.
Sources:
International Taoist Tai Chi Society, website
Sinclar, Ian, Tai Chi Central, website
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