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by R. V. Watson
Chairman Longfei Taijiquan Association of Great Britain
Chapter Four
Philosophy and Meaning
The words 'Taiji' first appeared in the Chinese language
several hundred years BC. They first arose in the 1 Ching, the Chinese Book
of Change and Prediction. like the Bible and the Koran, the I Ching is
considered an ancient treasure and has been used by the Chinese to define
and explore the meaning of human affairs for thousands of years. It
continues today to be a source of insight and wisdom for people around the
world. indeed, it may be the oldest book in the world, and like the Old
Testament, is thought to have many contributors and be the result of co-
operative efforts spanning many years.
The early authors of the I Ching made observations on the
stars and tides, plant and animal life, the cycle of natural events. They
observed patterns of relationships, both in families and society. The skills
of government, the art of warfare, the practise of business affairs, the
eternal drama of love, ambition, conflict and honour. in short, the I Ching
covers a multitude of things.
When the hieroglyphic's Taiji first appeared two thousand
years ago, their meaning was translated as 'The Supreme Ultimate' or 'The
Grand Terminus' and this translation remains popular today. For me these
translations are abstruse.
I prefer the definition given by Professor Li Deyin of
The People's University. He states that Taiji means embracing all things in
the Universe. Wuji is considered a state of nothingness and from it arises
Taiji. Taiji creates the elements and from the elements all things arise. I
like to see it as the I Ching's version of 'The Big Bang'.
Taijiquan is, of course, intrinsically concerned with the
philosophy and culture that spawned it, in particular, the Taoist view of
the Universe. Although, 1 must hasten to say, that all Chinese who practise
Taiji are not necessarily Taoists. Nevertheless, in Taoist cosmology,
mankind is seen as an integral part of his environment. Chinese traditional
medicine embraces this view of wholeness and belonging and driven by
Universal energy. The practise of needling in acupuncture is a process of
freeing blockages in our energy system and traditional Chinese medicine view
the free and smooth flow of Chi to be conducive to good health and well
being.
Some Taiji practitioners view their practise as an
exercise to smooth the acupuncture meridians and the creation of greater
energy output.
So the Taoist and the Taiji exponent concern themselves
with the economical use of Chi or internal energy, with the correct balance
of Yin and Yang forces within the body. To be in harmony with the
environment, to move in balance, be relaxed, supple, strong and enjoy
equanimity. A scant look at M would appear to justify the view that life is
concerned with movement and action. It is certain that life deprived of all
movement would experience a steady decline of both physical and mental
prowess.
This conclusion led the Chinese to consider the study of
movement was a study of life itself. Over many centuries they systematically
and scientifically investigated a superior way for human beings to exercise.
A search for a system to develop both physical and mental faculties, to
facilitate good health, well being, balance and a harmonious way of fife.
Although Taijiquan is famous as an internal martial art,
and there are many, many practitioners training today for martial arts
application, the modern and pragmatic focus is on Taiji as a measure
conducive to the distressing of the nervous system, a system of self
cultivation. Modern medical science embraces many ideas that have been part
of Taijiquan principles for many centuries. Among these are visualisation,
bio-feedback, meditation, relaxation and deep breathing. The movements are
done quite slowly, establishing it as an exercise that can be adopted for
one's whole lifetime.
In present day China, Taiji is extensively used in
convalescent and rehabilitation units of Chinese hospitals. If one consults
a traditional Chinese doctor, it would be quite usual as part of treatment
to he directed to perform Taiji-like movements. Exercise that will benefit
the circulation, stimulate the metabolism, increase the lung capacity and
encourage correct posture, all of course directed toward a recovery
programme.
However, it is on the preventative side of health that
Taiji comes into its own and the reason why it is enjoying world wide
growth.
Whether it was precipitated by Cheng San Feng or not will
remain truly academic. Certainly in this century, when bare hand fighting,
swords and sticks have become virtually redundant, Taiji has moved into a
different arena. The family tradition still survive and flourish. Teachers
of these schools can he found throughout Europe. Taijiquan is no longer the
preserve of clans or villages. The subject of taboos and secrecy. In China
it is part of University curriculum. As part of their physical training,
first and second year students attend the gymnasium to learn introductory
Hand Forms and Sword skills. You can gain a degree in martial arts. In
addition, Taiji organisations flourish in Working Men's and Women's Clubs,
Trade Unions, government offices or anywhere that there are group
activities. The parks are a meeting place for teachers and students alike.
Each morning between 6 am. and 8 am. many enthusiasts gather to attend to
their exercise. it is reported that 100 million people practise Taiji
throughout China.
There are many more practitioners throughout Asia -
Taiwan, Macao, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea and the
Philippines.
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