Jesse Enkamp visited Dr Mark Cheng to learn Tai Chi Yang-style applications for actual fighting and Tai Chi self-defence. Although Tai Chi is a widespread health practice, it’s a martial art initially designed for self-defence, not only for health or mindfulness, Enkamp explains.
Jesse Enkamp is an Amazon Best-Selling Author, National Team Athlete, Keynote Speaker, and Founder of the brand Seishin International.
Dr Mark Cheng shows several well-functioning self-defence techniques in this video based on Tai Chi movements.
”Slowness is the mother of all good movement. Slowness is the mother of speed because slow movement allows you to be mentally serene, dynamically smooth, intrinsically strong, & interactively safe.
Even in an art like swordsmanship (where most fixate on speed and/or savagery), slow training allows you to observe strategy with structure and detail without distortion, developing an awareness of subtlety and giving you a pathway to learning supremacy.
You groove skill without stress, you learn synergy without strain, and you learn suppleness without sickness.” – Dr. Mark Cheng
Tai Chi Chen style self-defenceand Tai Chi Yang style
Both styles cultivate Qi (life energy), but Yang’s approach is more about soothing and balancing this energy for health, whereas Chen’s method might be seen as harnessing and directing this energy for martial purposes.
Tai Chi, an ancient Chinese martial art, is renowned for its health benefits and meditative qualities. It’s also a profound martial system. Yang and Chen stand out for their unique approaches and philosophies among its various styles.
Yang Style Tai Chi is perhaps the most widely practised form globally due to its gentle, flowing movements. Characterized by smooth, slow movements with a focus on relaxation and balance. Yang style is often taught with a focus on health benefits, promoting circulation, flexibility, and mental calmness.
Yang’s larger, slower movements are less taxing, making it easier for beginners or less physically capable individuals. Chen’s complexity and intensity can make it more challenging but potentially more rewarding regarding martial prowess.
Chen Style Tai Chi self-defence is the original form from which other styles evolved. Chen style is more dynamic and explosive but includes slow and fast movements, with bursts of power, or ”fajin,” making it more martial in appearance and application. Chen involves a silk reeling” technique, where energy spirals through the body, enhancing strength and coordination.
Chen style often strongly emphasises combat applications, with training in forms, push hands, and weapons.
Sources and related
- Drmarkcheng.com
- Karatebyjesse.com
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