Philosophy in practise
It still remains unclear when and by whom the term Tai Ji was taken to name this martial art. Former names for Tai Ji Quan were十三式 Shi San Shi (thirteen postures) or长拳 Chang Quan (long boxing).
Naming this art Tai Ji Quan, a very essential term from the Chinese ancient philosophy as Daoism and Neo-Confucianism was taken up. Consequently all the theoretical tracts about Tai Ji Quan base on the models and terms of these schools of thoughts.
Not only in theory, but also in its practise Daoist principles like the无为 Wu Wie can be found. This principle of „ Acting without acting” basically implies an attitude not to act against the nature of the things, but to act with them. Referring this to the practise of self defence in Tai Ji Quan it means not to answer with direct strength to an attack by you’re opponent, but to follow it.
Also when training the form to release the Qi, the aspect of “letting go” is essential. Briefly: Be natural.
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