Tai Chi Book List and Information
The art of Tai Chi is based around experience. Only by 'doing' can an understanding begin to take place. There are many books and videos that demonstrate the different forms of Tai Chi, my experience is only of the Yang form but I believe all are valid, all aim at a higher objective. Find a teacher who can not only show you the movements and describe what to do, as indeed any book or video can do, but who will demonstrate the form so you can see, hear and 'feel' how it should be done.
I found that many books and translations of Chinese 'classic' texts are difficult to understand, only after 'doing' Tai Chi did the meaning become clear. So after reading:
The Essence of Tai Chi Chuan ISBN 0-913028-63-0
I just felt more confused, but the poetry stayed with me and helped me understand what I was feeling years later when doing the Tai Chi form. The best description of Tai Chi that I have found is in the:
Meditators Handbook ISBN 1-85230-320-4
The struggle to quieten the mind, relax and bring about a change in consciousness is well described in the book:
Zen And The Art Of Archery.
Other books to look out for which go more into the principles of Tai Chi are:
Yang Family Secret Transmissions from Sweet Chi Press
Toa Of Tai Chi Chuan ISBN 0-8048-1357-4
The book:
Zen Imagery Exercises ISBN 0-87040-669-8
gives an interesting overlay taking Chinese principles in a Japanese context of Indian, Yoga type stretching exercises. The Chi / Qi / Prana link to the movement of energy within our bodies, perhaps linking these three cultures to a time when human beings although not technologically advanced had great powers and knowledge in a very different way. We still can tap into this power that lays dormant and almost forgotten in many people.
There are of course Classic books like:
Toa Te Ching ISBN 0-14-019060-0
The Secrets Of The Golden Flower
I Ching ISBN 0-14-019207-7
These must be read in the context of interpretation and translation but as I said in the beginning 'experiencing' brings with it understanding, a 'knowing'.
For myself Tai Chi has opened a door to a whole new world that reaches far beyond the practice of Tai Chi. Once through that door flow with the Toa and choose the right path from the many that will be presented to you.
If Tai Chi is another door for you I wish you a fruitful journey.
David Hunt, 4th July 1995.
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