Sunday, January 28, 2007

Balance One on One and One to Many

I recommend that you take a look at Nick Waller's blog, Dynamic Balancing Tai Chi. I think he provides many brief insightful observations, suggestions, and good advice.

"Plan your walk such that you have plenty of time to wander, to drift, to explore. Find avenues that are away from the bustle and the noise. Places of quiet and calm. Relish the solitude, the integrity of being alone yet united with all things. Feel your place in the world. Enjoy the easy rhythm of your stride. Let your body loosen as you walk. Feel the ground. Be whole."

"There are many aspects of the tai chi practice that cannot be conveyed on-line, via DVD/video or a book. We have no intention of illustrating form on-line, teaching gravity strikes or attempting to explain neigong in detail. If you want to understand these things, you will need to take lessons. This is not a commercial decision. It is a functional one. Tai chi requires direct transmission."
- Nick Waller


I disagree somewhat with Nick, because I think books, webpages and DVD/videos are an excellent resource for learning about Tai Chi Chuan and Qigong forms, concepts, history, and practices. There are some aspects for these mind-body arts that require "direct transmission" from a qualified teacher, push hands and two person sparring forms require group work, and the synergy of group practice is invaluable. However, there are articulate contemporary masters who have written extensively about these subjects and produced high quality instructional media, and I believe you can learn a great deal from them. Many people do not have a Tai Chi Chuan or Qigong teacher who teaches in their town. They should start their practice today by using instructional media and books. Use all means available to learn and enhance your practice.



3 comments:

  1. Anonymous2:06 AM PST

    Hi Mike,

    I'm not sure that Master Waller is saying for people to avoid buying books and videos - after all, his website lists a massive range of reading recommendations.

    My feeling was that he is indicating the limitations of such teaching tools.

    I love your site(s) by the way. You are a warm person who gives so much of himself and does so freely.

    Your site led me to Master Waller's site. 800 pages!!!

    Well, all I can say is thanks!

    God bless,

    Matt

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  2. Matt,

    Yes, Master Ken Waller's website is very useful and with great depth.

    Indeed, he seems open to the wide range of literature available but has chosen to emphasize direct instruction at his school.

    Thanks for the positive feedback about my work.

    Cheers.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Anonymous12:00 AM PST

    Hi Mike,

    Its 'Nick' Waller, not Ken... sorry to be a pedant.

    I think that you're correct about his emphasis. Waller seems to be 'hands-on'.

    Enjoy the season,

    Matt

    ReplyDelete