This book clarifies and makes accessible critical aspects of the art that are currently understood and manifested by only a small number of high-level practitioners. Numerous step-by-step experiments are provided for readers to experience and perfect these critical tai chi aspects. This interdisciplinary book utilizes elementary physics, physiology, anatomy, psychology, and spirituality. It contains detailed analyses and explanations for achieving internal, expansive strength, known as nei jin, and for attaining optimal timing and natural movement.

Intended for intermediate level Tai Chi players. The author, a thirty-seven year Tai Chi practitioner with a Ph.D. in experimental physics, applies logic and basic scientific principles to clarify many perplexing concepts in Tai Chi such as force, muscle contraction, breathing, and more. Discusses self-development, Tai Chi massage, how diet effects Tai Chi, the role of a teacher and many more common concerns of intermediate Tai Chi students. Supported with photographs and drawings throughout.

IN Master Ting’s second book, he sets forth a far deeper path of discovery for the Tai Chi practitioner of every style and level. Master Ting describes and explains the Basic Foundational Principles normally shared only between the closed-door student and the Master under whom he studies. What makes this book stand out is the clarity of language and imagery used to explain concepts often misunderstood, or simply missing, due to translation difficulties and a reluctance to share this special knowledge with more than just a privileged few. He carefully presents, chapter by chapter, a blueprint of study which ultimately reveals the internal elements so often forgotten or overlooked by modern students. If you are looking for a Tai Chi book written in clear, understandable, and visual language that you will come back to again and again for advice and suggestions, this is that book. What Master Ting hopes to do is to make you the master of your own Tai Chi.

Introduces the philosophy of tai chi, and discusses breathing, stances, alignment, and movements

A longtime teacher and Harvard researcher presents the latest science on the benefits of T’ai Chi as well as a practical daily program for practitioners of all ages Conventional medical science on the Chinese art of T’ai Chi now shows what T’ai Chi masters have known for centuries: regular practice leads to more vigor and flexibility, better balance and mobility, and a sense of well-being. Cutting-edge research from Harvard Medical School also supports the long-standing claims that T’ai Chi also has a beneficial impact on the health of the heart, bones, nerves and muscles, immune system, and the mind. This research provides fascinating insight into the underlying physiological mechanisms that explain how T’ai Chi actually works. Dr. Peter M. Wayne, a longtime T’ai Chi teacher and a researcher at Harvard Medical School, developed and tested protocols similar to the simplified program he includes in this book, which is suited to people of all ages, and can be done in just a few minutes a day. This book includes: • The basic program, illustrated by more than 50 photographs • Practical tips for integrating T’ai Chi into everyday activities • An introduction to the traditional principles of T’ai Chi • Up-to-date summaries of the research on the health benefits of T’ai Chi • How T’ai Chi can enhance work productivity, creativity, and sports performance • And much more

An in-depth exploration of T'ai Chi through the practice of Cloud Hands, a foundational exercise common to all schools of this popular martial art Part theoretical treatise, part training manual, this book facilitates a deeper understanding of "internal" movement and training for students of T'ai Chi and other internal martial arts. Step-by-step exercises help to bring the theoretical into concrete practice and application. Author Robert E. Tangora, an accomplished practitioner and teacher of several different styles of T'ai Chi, places a heavy emphasis on the development of internal structure and building a solid foundation in the art's most basic movements. Intermediate and advanced practitioners will discover a deeply interconnected world of practice; beginning students will learn basic training methods that can help them bypass years of incomplete training and erase incorrect habits already formed. Tangora also stresses the importance of meditation and its crucial relationship to the art's health and martial aspects, as well as how to use the spine to integrate movements—especially important for practitioners with back problems who wish to learn how to move without inducing pain. Readers will learn to: • Cultivate internal power • Discover the inner workings of Tai Chi Ch'uan • Understand the meaning of the T'ai Chi classics • Move without injury • Relieve back pain