The Essence of T'ai Chi

by Waysun Liao

The deepest benefits of T'ai Chi cannot be realized without an understanding of its underlying principles. This book presents these principles through translations of three core classics of T'ai Chi that are often considered the "T'ai Chi Bible," accompanied by the author's insightful commentary. Master Liao demonstrates how to increase the body's inner energy (ch'i ) and transform it into power, health, and well-being.

Genres: Martial Arts, Nonfiction, Philosophy, Spirituality, Reference, Health

162 pages, Paperback

First published March 14, 1995

Reviews

[KimberlyAsal · Rating 2 out of 5]

This tiny introduction to the philosophy of T'ai Chi is more of a pamphlet than a book. It's a brief look at the basic principles of T'ai Chi, with an overly detailed and simplified "explanation" (reiteration) of these principles, provided by Liao. 2 stars because - though the commentary was tedious - the translations were interesting and while Wikipedia is useful, it's inaccessible during my travels...

[M R B Davis · Rating 4 out of 5]

A short treatise incorporating extracts from three T'ai Chi classics. A useful book to remind the practitioner of the background and practice of T'ai Chi.

[Ava · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good book, just doesn't suit my interest

[Sha Na · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Essence of T'ai Chi - Waysun Liao

Background in work uses Western Authority and Western History. Region of time seems to miss B.C..

Work does date using C.E.. Is it clear that C.E. is Christian Era, or C.E. India. Knowing which helps. Tibetean works are Christian Era, older works are C.E., India. Somehow the later works use the same names.

Some differences are:

C.E. India

Is the balance of the male nothing? Some say so. Yin-Yang. Which is the Nothing?

Grasp the center. Some say weight the are. Reduce the weight. How? Sustain the lift. An hour should do. Naturally without strain or struggle. Practice over time, say about a quarter of a year, this should do this, say The Shore.

Says the All.

When you make a ball, what do you make the ball from? Another ball? Does it say to make a bigger or smaller ball? No.

T'Chi study of instruments are not allowed. Even for study of balance, K,gjn. Where's the master, for the study?

Say me.

Now which that, I found the work interesting, well presented, and for the most part in balance. With the exception of the mention, study instruments, I would suggest this work for those interested in an early (youthful) look at T'Chi.

[MR D J Wilkinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just what I was after

This is a excellent introduction to the non physical elements. By that I mean discussion of a little history and focus on what Chi is and how it is cultivated. If you ate looking for a book that discusses the inner elements of Tai Chi this may well be the book for you. If you want to learn forms you need to look elsewhere.

[Kathryn Reimer · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good introduction to the principles of T'ai Chi, internal strength, power and balance - but some of the practice and exercises were difficult to move from theory to reality. (would not recommend reading on a Kindle so you can reference).

[Joshua · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a pocket sized book. Recommended for anyone interested in the fundamentals of Tai Chi. It can also be used as a reference book. I learned a lot from reading this very short book.

[Ray Gates · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting insight into Tai Chi practice. Focuses on the internal aspects. Worth reading if you want to further your understanding of Tai Chi

[Robert Parnell]

Cover the philosophy well