What is T'ai Chi Chu'an?

It is an exercise discipline known throughout the orient for many centuries. The movements are based mostly on circular motion and flow at a smooth even tempo, making for perfect balance as the weight of the body is shifted from one side to the other. If practised carefully it will bring about a high level of body control. This in turn results in greatly increased powers of mental concentration. To practice the art you need nothing more than the floor space of an average room. T'ai Chi Chu'an teaches how to conserve and increase your energy flow. For this reason it is suitable for people of all ages. When practised properly, one is less tired at the end of a session than at the beginning. It is indeed a wonderful tonic for the mind and body.

Where did it Begin?

Since 2675 B.C. several forms of martial arts have been practised and highly valued in the Orient. There are many different versions of the history of T'ai Chi Chu'an. One thing is certain. It developed under the influence of the philosophy of Taoism which over the years evolved a number of systems of meditation, breathing exercises, and other techniques to maintain health. According to legend, T'ai Chi Chu'an was created the twelfth century by the Taoist monk Chang San Feng while meditating on Wu Tang Mountain. The vision he had of a whirling snake successfully evading an attacking crane is said to have inspired the soft, circular movements of this profound exercise art.