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We sponsor a monthly push-hands gathering in downtown Philadelphia - details are provided below. |  |
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We sponsor a monthly push-hands gathering in downtown Philadelphia - details are provided below. | |
T'ai Chi Ch'uan is an ancient Chinese system of physical exercise for health, vitality, longevity and self-defense. In the Orient, T'ai Chi is practiced daily by millions of people. Its roots reach back thousands of years into Chinese culture. T'ai Chi can be loosely translated as great universal and Ch'uan as boxing or form. T'ai Chi is an all-embracing term which suggests a harmony with the universe in the Taoist tradition. The T'ai Chi form is a vehicle by which one can attain this harmony. It is said that a regular practitioner of T'ai Chi Ch'uan gains the strength of a lumberjack and the pliability of a child.
The short yang-style T'ai Chi form developed by Professor Cheng Man-ch'ing consists of 37 postures executed in a continuous sequence at a slow speed. Complete relaxation, accuracy of balance, and smoothness of motion are some of the elements which make up its correct practice. The form is performed alone and requires no special equipment. T'ai Chi Ch'uan offers a means of deeply relaxing while being very alert and active.
An advanced T'ai Chi practitioner also will do push hands practice. This is an exercise done by two people in which one tries to unbalance or uproot the other with as little force as possible - only four ounces, according to the T'ai Chi Classics. The practice helps develop the qualities of rootedness and yielding as well as listening, which is the ability to react with lightning quickness to the opponent's movements.
The T'ai Chi sword form is usually done more quickly than the regular form, but the principles mentioned above still determine its correct execution. Two sword practitioners can also perform a duel in which one tries to make the sword lightly touch the opponent's body. The swords are kept in constant contact in order to minimize force and clashing. The qualities developed in push hands such as yielding and listening are essential for correct sword dueling.
| where: |
The Neighborhood House of
Christ Church,
located at 20 N. American street, is
just north of 2nd and Market Streets in Philadelphia.
The building is due west of the church, across the cobbled street. The studio is (usually) on the second floor. Ring the bell and say "T'ai Chi." |
| when: | 2nd Saturdays of each month, 1:30pm - 5pm |
| donation: | $3 to the church. |
| directions: |
Christ Church is located in
the Old City section of Philadelphia.
By car:
From I95, take the Callowhill
exit at the junction with I676 in Philadelphia.
Turn left (south) on either 4th or 6th streets.
Turn left (east) onto Market Street and go to 2nd street.
By public transportation:
Street parking is usually available, especially along Front Street, just east of 2nd and Market. Parking lots are nearby.
Take the Market Street El (subway) and get off at 2nd street.
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Taoism: Wandering Daoists Member |