"All students should learn the Eight Treasures first, because many people have serious energy blocks and the Eight Treasures are more effective in quickly breaking through them that the more subtle Tai Chi."
- Hua-Ching Ni, "Workbook for Spiritual Development," Tao of Wellness Press, 1992, p. 138
An excellent book to read regarding a seated version of the Eight Treasures is by Stuart Alve Olson, "Qigong Teachings of a Taoist Immortal: The Eight Essential Exercises of Master Li Ching-Yun.
Eight Section Brocade Qigong
Eight Silken Treasures Qigong
Ba Duan Jin Qigong
History, Instructions, Bibliography, Links, Resources, Quotes
Researched by Michael P. Garofalo
Last Updated on October 24, 2017
Eight Section Brocade Qigong By Michael P. Garofalo.
this webpage provides information about the history and purpose of this popular Chi Kung practice. Detailed descriptions are provided for each of the eight movements; including information on movement variations, health benefits, qigong meaning, and cautions. The document includes the most extensive bibliography, link guide, and comments on Ba Duan Jin Qigong resources available anywhere. Some animated graphics are provided in linked files. This document is updated as new information is discovered.
This qigong set is the most popular set practiced around the world, and is also known as: Baduanjin, Pa Tuan Jin, Eight Silken Treasures, Ba Duan Jin, Pal Dan Gum, Ba Duan Gin, Pa Tin Kam, Otto Pezzi di Tesoro, Acht Delen Brokaat, Les Huit Exercices del la Soie, Eight Silken Treasures, Brocade Qigong, Wudang Brocade Qigong, Brocade soft qigong (Rou Gong), Eight Treasures inner qigong (Nei Gong), Silk Treasures Qigong, and the first eight Buddha Lohan Hands.
This hypertext document is 164 pages in length, over 39,000 words, and with a filesize of 448Kb. This document has been online since 2002.
Web File Location: http://www.egreenway.com/taichichuan/esb.htm.
Sunday, October 29, 2017
Saturday, October 28, 2017
Tai Chi Kung Fu Fan of Professor Li Deyin
There are many T'ai Chi Ch'uan exercise forms which make use of a fan. Most are shorter forms, under 25 movements, but some, like the famous Tai Chi Kung Fu Fan Form have over 50 movements. Most are done slowly and softly, but some include vigorous and fast movements. The majority favor the Yang Style of Tai Chi Chuan.
Tai Chi Fan: Bibliography, Links, Resources, Notes, Lore, Quotations. Research by Mike Garofalo. I welcome any comments, suggestions, additions, or ideas regarding this webpage.
One of the most popular Tai Chi Fan forms was created by Professor Li Deyin (1938-). It has 52 movements. I includes slow and gentle movements in the first half of the form, then the second half is much more vigorous. This Tai Chi Fan form is for athletic and intermediate Tai Chi students.
Here are some instructional resources for learning the Tai Chi Kung Fu Fan Form.
Tai Chi Kung Fu Fan. Routine 1, created by Grandmaster Li Deyin (1938-). Instructional DVD, 65 minutes, by Master Jesse Tsao. Tai Chi Healthways, San Diego, California. "The most popular Tai Chi Fan form ever practiced in China. The routine was created by Grandmaster Li Deyin, Jesse Tsao's teacher since 1978. There are 52 movements in the whole routine based on the characteristic Tai Chi posture with the fan's artistic and martial functions. Master Tsao presents demonstrations at the beginning and end. He teaches step-by-step in slow motion, in English. There are plenty of repetitions of movements in both front and back view. It is a good reference for home study, or a resource for instructor's teaching preparation." Cost: 35.00 US. Demonstration.
Tai Chi Kung Fu Fan Instructional DVD by Professor Li Deyin. Narration in English. "A fan routine, created by Professor Li, which combines the gracefulness, centrality and continuity of Taiji with the power, speed and fierceness of Wushu. It is designed as an addition to the exercises for health, and has received massive interest and support throughout the world. In this DVD, Professor Li provides in-depth teaching with Mrs. Fang Mishou performing detail demonstration." Vendor 1. Cost: $35.00 US.
Tai Chi Kung Fu Fan, Form 1. List of 52 movement names, directions, instructions, and notes by Mike Garofalo.
I compiled the following list of UTube demonstrations of this Tai Chi fan form a couple of years ago. Some of the videos may no longer exist.
Tai Chi Kung Fun Fan, Form 1. UTube Video, 4:02 min. Lady in white on a stage in Japan. My favorite! "First Form of the Xiyangmei Taiji Kungfu Shan (Taiji Shan). Recorded in Tokyo, Japan when the group headed by Li Deyin went to give an exhibition in 2006."
Tai Chi Kung Fu Fan, Form 1. UTube Video, 3:59 min. Three performers in white outfits.
Tai Chi Kung Fu Fan, Form 1. UTube Video, 3:59 min. Demonstrated by Patty Lee. Lady in a yellow outfit in a field with a backdrop of mountains.
Tai Chi Kung Fu Fan, Form 1. UTube Video, 4:02 min. Lady in black practicing in a dance studio. What is the song used in many of these videos (by Jackie Chan)??
Tai Chi Kung Fu Fan, Form 1. UTube Video, 3:42. A group of Master Fay Li Yip's students performing outdoors.
Tai Chi Kung Fu Fan, Form 1. UTube Video, 3:53 min. A group in black outfits performs outdoors in Madrid, Spain. Some members need more group practice.
Tai Chi Kung Fu Fan, Form 1. UTube Video, 5:57 min. Two ladies in red outfits perform outdoors in Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
Tai Chi Kung Fu Fan, Form 1. 中國太極功夫扇
Tai Chi Kung Fu Fan, Form 1. UTube Video Subject Search.
Friday, October 27, 2017
Tao Te Ching, Chapter 1, by Lao Tzu
Dao De Jing, Laozi
Chapter 1
"Existence is beyond the power of words
To define:
Terms may be used
But are none of them absolute.
In the beginning of heaven and earth there were no words,
Words came out of the womb of matter;
And whether a man dispassionately
Sees to the core of life
Or passionately
Sees the surface,
The core and the surface
Are essentially the same,
Words making them seem different
Only to express appearance.
If name be needed, wonder names them both:
From wonder into wonder
Existence opens."
- Translated by Witter Bynner, 1944, Chapter 1
To define:
Terms may be used
But are none of them absolute.
In the beginning of heaven and earth there were no words,
Words came out of the womb of matter;
And whether a man dispassionately
Sees to the core of life
Or passionately
Sees the surface,
The core and the surface
Are essentially the same,
Words making them seem different
Only to express appearance.
If name be needed, wonder names them both:
From wonder into wonder
Existence opens."
- Translated by Witter Bynner, 1944, Chapter 1
"The way that can be spoken of
Is not the constant way;
The name that can be named
Is not the constant name.
The nameless was the beginning of heaven and earth;
The named was the mother of the myriad creatures.
Hence always rid yourself of desires in order to observe its secrets;
But always allow yourself to have desires in order to observe its manifestations.
These two are the same
But diverge in name as they issue forth.
Being the same they are called mysteries,
Mystery upon mystery -
The gateway of the manifold secrets."
- Translated by D. C. Lau, 1963, Chapter 1
"The Tao that is the subject of discussion is not the true Tao.
The quality which can be named is not its true attribute.
That which was before Heaven and Earth is called the Non-Existent.
The Existent is the mother of all things.
Therefore doth the wise man seek after the first mystery of the Non-Existent, while seeing in that which exists the Ultimates thereof.
The Non-Existent and Existent are identical in all but name.
This identity of apparent opposites I call the profound, the great deep, the open door of bewilderment."
- Translated by Walter Gorn Old, 1904, Chapter 1
The quality which can be named is not its true attribute.
That which was before Heaven and Earth is called the Non-Existent.
The Existent is the mother of all things.
Therefore doth the wise man seek after the first mystery of the Non-Existent, while seeing in that which exists the Ultimates thereof.
The Non-Existent and Existent are identical in all but name.
This identity of apparent opposites I call the profound, the great deep, the open door of bewilderment."
- Translated by Walter Gorn Old, 1904, Chapter 1
"Nature can never be completely described, for such a description of Nature would have to duplicate Nature.
No name can fully express what it represents.
It is Nature itself, and not any part or name or description abstracted from Nature, which is the ultimate source of all that happens, all that comes and goes, begins and ends, is and is not.
But to describe Nature as "the ultimate source of all" is still only a description, and such a description is not Nature itself.
Yet since, in order to speak of it, we must use words, we shall have to describe it as "the ultimate source of all."
If Nature is inexpressible, he who desires to know Nature as it is in itself will not try to express it in words
Although the existence of Nature and a description of that existence are two different things, yet they are also the same.
For both are ways of existing.
That is, a description of existence must have its own existence, which is different from the existence of that which it describes.
And so again we have to recognize an existence which cannot be described."
- Translated by Archie J. Bahm, 1958, Chapter 1
No name can fully express what it represents.
It is Nature itself, and not any part or name or description abstracted from Nature, which is the ultimate source of all that happens, all that comes and goes, begins and ends, is and is not.
But to describe Nature as "the ultimate source of all" is still only a description, and such a description is not Nature itself.
Yet since, in order to speak of it, we must use words, we shall have to describe it as "the ultimate source of all."
If Nature is inexpressible, he who desires to know Nature as it is in itself will not try to express it in words
Although the existence of Nature and a description of that existence are two different things, yet they are also the same.
For both are ways of existing.
That is, a description of existence must have its own existence, which is different from the existence of that which it describes.
And so again we have to recognize an existence which cannot be described."
- Translated by Archie J. Bahm, 1958, Chapter 1
道可道, 非常道.
名可名, 非常名.
無名天地之始.
有名萬物之母.
故常無, 欲以觀其妙.
常有, 欲以觀其徼.
此兩者, 同出而異名.
同謂之玄.
玄之又玄.
衆妙之門. - Chinese characters, Tao Te Ching, Chapter 1
tao k’o tao, fei ch’ang tao.
ming k’o ming, fei ch’ang ming.
wu ming t’ien ti chih shih.
yu ming wan wu chih mu.
ku ch’ang wu, yü yi kuan ch’i miao.
ch’ang yu, yü yi kuan ch’i chiao.
tz’u liang chê, t’ung ch’u erh yi ming.
t’ung wei chih hsüan.
hsüan chih yu hsüan.
chung miao chih mên.
- Wade Giles Romanization, Tao Te Ching, Chapter 1
"The Tao that can be trodden is not the enduring and unchanging Tao.
The name that can be named is not the enduring and unchanging name.
Conceived of as having no name, it is the Originator of heaven and earth;
Conceived of as having a name, it is the Mother of all things.
Always without desire we must be found,
If its deep mystery we would sound;
But if desire always within us be,
Its outer fringe is all that we shall see.
Under these two aspects, it is really the same;
But as development takes place, it receives the different names.
Together we call them the Mystery.
Where the Mystery is the deepest is the gate of all that is subtle and wonderful."
- Translated by James Legge, 1891, Chapter 1
"The Tao that can be spoken of is not the constant Tao.
The name that can be named is not the constant name.
The nameless is the beginning of life.
It is the mother of the ten thousand things.
Remove your desires and you will see the mystery.
Be filled with desire
And you will see only the manifestation.
These two are the same
yet, they diverge in nature
as they issue forth.
Being the same, they are the source
but the source remains a mystery.
Mystery upon mystery,
The gateway of Tao's manifold secrets."
- Translated by Kari Hohne, 2009, Chapter 1
"Camino que se puede describir de manera articulada
no es el Camino Invariable.
El nombre que se puede decir en voz alta
no es el Nombre Invariable.
Con la boca cerrada y las cosas sin definir,
estás al principio del universo.
Si haces definiciones, eres la medida de toda la creación.
Así, estando siempre sin deseo,
miras en lo hondo de lo trascendente.
Albergando constantemente el deseo,
todas las cosas que te rodean te estorban la vista.
Estos dos entran en el mundo semejantes,
pero sus nombres son diferentes.
Semjantes, se llaman profundos y remotos.
Profundos y remotos y más aún:
Esta es la puerta de todos los misterios."
- Translated by Alejandro Pareja, 2012, based upon the William Scott Wilson translation into English, Capítulo 1
no es el Camino Invariable.
El nombre que se puede decir en voz alta
no es el Nombre Invariable.
Con la boca cerrada y las cosas sin definir,
estás al principio del universo.
Si haces definiciones, eres la medida de toda la creación.
Así, estando siempre sin deseo,
miras en lo hondo de lo trascendente.
Albergando constantemente el deseo,
todas las cosas que te rodean te estorban la vista.
Estos dos entran en el mundo semejantes,
pero sus nombres son diferentes.
Semjantes, se llaman profundos y remotos.
Profundos y remotos y más aún:
Esta es la puerta de todos los misterios."
- Translated by Alejandro Pareja, 2012, based upon the William Scott Wilson translation into English, Capítulo 1
"Tao called Tao is not Tao.
Names can name no lasting name.
Nameless: the origin of heaven and earth.
Naming: the mother of ten thousand things.
Empty of desire, perceive mystery.
Filled with desire, perceive manifestations.
These have the same source, but different names.
Call them both deep - Deep and again deep: the gateway to all mystery."
- Translated by Stephen Addis and Stanley Lombardo, 1993, Chapter 1
Names can name no lasting name.
Nameless: the origin of heaven and earth.
Naming: the mother of ten thousand things.
Empty of desire, perceive mystery.
Filled with desire, perceive manifestations.
These have the same source, but different names.
Call them both deep - Deep and again deep: the gateway to all mystery."
- Translated by Stephen Addis and Stanley Lombardo, 1993, Chapter 1
"The Way that can be told of is not an Unvarying Way;
The names that can be named are not unvarying names.
It was from the Nameless that Heaven and Earth sprang;
The named is but the mother that rears the ten thousand creatures, each after its kind.
Truly, “Only he that rids himself forever of desire can see the Secret Essences”;
He that has never rid himself of desire can see only the Outcomes.
These two things issued from the same mould, but nevertheless are different in name.
This “same mould” we can but call the Mystery, Or rather the “Darker than any Mystery”,
The Doorway whence issued all Secret Essences."
- Translated by Arthur Waley, 1934, Chapter 1
"Tao that can be expressed is not Everlasting Tao.
The name that can be named is not the Everlasting Name.
The Name, in its inner aspect, is Life-Spring of Heaven and Earth.
The Name, in its outer aspect, is Mother of all created things.
Therefore:
To perceive the mystery of Life, desire always to reach the innermost.
To perceive the limitations of things, desire always to posses them.
These two aspects of Life are One.
In their out-come they become different in Name but in their depth they are One.
In a depth, still deeper yet, is the Door of many mysteries."
- Translated by Isabella Mears, 1916, Chapter 1
"The Tao that can be spoken of is not the Tao itself.
The name that can be given is not the name itself.
The unnameable is the source of the universe.
The nameable is the originator of all things.
Therefore, oftentimes without intention I see the wonder of Tao.
Oftentimes with intention I see its manifestations.
Its wonder and its manifestations are one and the same.
Since their emergence, they have been called by different names.
Their identity is called the mystery.
From mystery to further mystery:
The entry of all wonders!"
- Translated by Chang Chung-Yuan, Chapter 1
The names that can be named are not unvarying names.
It was from the Nameless that Heaven and Earth sprang;
The named is but the mother that rears the ten thousand creatures, each after its kind.
Truly, “Only he that rids himself forever of desire can see the Secret Essences”;
He that has never rid himself of desire can see only the Outcomes.
These two things issued from the same mould, but nevertheless are different in name.
This “same mould” we can but call the Mystery, Or rather the “Darker than any Mystery”,
The Doorway whence issued all Secret Essences."
- Translated by Arthur Waley, 1934, Chapter 1
"Tao that can be expressed is not Everlasting Tao.
The name that can be named is not the Everlasting Name.
The Name, in its inner aspect, is Life-Spring of Heaven and Earth.
The Name, in its outer aspect, is Mother of all created things.
Therefore:
To perceive the mystery of Life, desire always to reach the innermost.
To perceive the limitations of things, desire always to posses them.
These two aspects of Life are One.
In their out-come they become different in Name but in their depth they are One.
In a depth, still deeper yet, is the Door of many mysteries."
- Translated by Isabella Mears, 1916, Chapter 1
"The Tao that can be spoken of is not the Tao itself.
The name that can be given is not the name itself.
The unnameable is the source of the universe.
The nameable is the originator of all things.
Therefore, oftentimes without intention I see the wonder of Tao.
Oftentimes with intention I see its manifestations.
Its wonder and its manifestations are one and the same.
Since their emergence, they have been called by different names.
Their identity is called the mystery.
From mystery to further mystery:
The entry of all wonders!"
- Translated by Chang Chung-Yuan, Chapter 1
A typical webpage created by Mike Garofalo for each one of the 81 Chapters (Verses, Sections) of the Tao Te Ching (Daodejing) by Lao Tzu (Laozi) includes 25 different English language translations or interpolations for that Chapter, 5 Spanish language translations for that Chapter, the Chinese characters for that Chapter, the Wade-Giles and Hanyu Pinyin transliterations (Romanization) of the Mandarin Chinese words for that Chapter, and 2 German and 1 French translation of that Chapter. Each webpage for each one of the 81 Chapters of the Tao Te Ching includes extensive indexing by key words, phrases, and terms for that Chapter in English, Spanish, and the Wade-Giles Romanization. Each webpage on a Chapter of the Daodejing includes recommended reading in books and websites, a detailed bibliography, some commentary, research leads, translation sources, a Google Translate drop down menu, and other resources for that Chapter. These are hypertext documents, and available online under Creative Commons 4.
Chapter 1, Tao Te Ching by Lao Tzu. Compiled and indexed by Mike Garofalo.
Chapter and Thematic Index (Concordance) to the Tao Te Ching by Lao Tzu
English Language Daodejing Translators' Source Index
Spanish Language Daodejing Translators' Source Index
Ripening Peaches: Taoist Studies and Practices
Taoism: A Selected Reading List
Chapter 1, Tao Te Ching by Lao Tzu. Compiled and indexed by Mike Garofalo.
Chapter and Thematic Index (Concordance) to the Tao Te Ching by Lao Tzu
English Language Daodejing Translators' Source Index
Spanish Language Daodejing Translators' Source Index
Ripening Peaches: Taoist Studies and Practices
Taoism: A Selected Reading List
A Solitary Daoist Neopagan's Final Journey
An Old Philosopher's Notebooks
How to Live a Good Life: Advice from Wise Persons
An Old Philosopher's Notebooks
How to Live a Good Life: Advice from Wise Persons
Thursday, October 26, 2017
Wednesday, October 25, 2017
Tai Chi Health Benefits, Results, Effects
The Mayo Clinic States that Tai Chi Chuan can help with:
- Reducing anxiety and depression
- Improving balance, flexibility and muscle strength
- Reducing falls in older adults
- Improving sleep quality
- Lowering blood pressure
- Improving cardiovascular fitness in older adult
- Relieving chronic pain
- Increasing energy, endurance and agility
- Improving overall feelings of well-being
Harvard University published that Tai Chi results in:
- Increased Aerobic conditioning
- Improved Balance
- Greater Flexibility
- More Muscle strength
And can aid in recovery from:
- Stroke
- Sleep problems
- Parkinson’s disease
- Hypertension
- Heart failure
- Heart disease
- Breast cancer
- Low bone density
- Arthritis
The NCCAM reports that Tai Chi and Qigong positively effects:
- bone health
- cardiopulmonary fitness
- balance and factors associated with preventing falls, quality of life
- and self-efficacy
From the website of the Portland Tai Chi Academy, Oregon
Tai Chi's Special Benefits for Practitioners Over Fifty
1. Increase physical balance.
2. Regulates and lowers blood pressure.
3. Improves circulation.
4. Promotes and good night's sleep.
5. Re-establishes biomechanical alignments.
6. Restores sexual vitality.
"Tai Chi Health for Life: How and Why it Works for Health, Stress Relief and
Longevity." By Bruce Frantzis, Blue Snake Books, 2006.
Tuesday, October 24, 2017
Fetyko Family School of Taijquan
Today, 10/24.2017, I attended a class conducted by Sifu David Fetyko in Vancouver.
The class location was at 318 99th Street in Vancouver, Washington.
The group class is located in a Taekwondo dojo.
Phone: 360-695-6741
Email: info@taichiwithme.com
The morning class is on Tuesday and Thursday morning. Qigong is from 8:45 am to 9:15 am, Taijiquan from 9:15 am to 10:45 am. Sifu is generous with his instructional time. He also teaches elsewhere in Vancouver, and offers private lessons.
The classroom is in a very nice, clean, not smelly, and spacious Taekwondo studio near Interstate 5 at 99th Street.
Cost is about $15.00 per lesson.
I watched Sifu Fetyko teaching two students the short Chen 17 form of Grandmaster Chen Xiaowang.
He was a patient, considerate, and kind teacher. For a 77 year old man, he was steady, agile, skilled, and confident. He corrected students postures in a gentle manner.
He took the time after class to introduce himself to me, chat, and provide me with some insights. He recommended two books on preventing and reversing heart disease.
I have been exploring Taijiquan classes in Vancouver. I have attended Taijiquan classes by Sifu Knack and Sifu Fetyko in Vancouver. They teach in nice, clean, and fresh facilities. I did not like the dojo of Sifu Moy in Salmon Creek.
After three months of taking classes with Mr. Fetyko, I stopped taking his classes. His style of teaching was far too slow for my tastes. Too much time spent warming up, obscure explanations of Qi, expensive class costs, and too many tedious corrections of the student's form work. Also, as you came to know Mr. Fetyko on a personal basis, your worldview and his Christian Fundamentalism and anti-intellectualism might not be compatible.
Monday, October 23, 2017
Weekend Grandparenting
Karen and I took care of our two granddaughters from last Thursday until Sunday evening. We stayed at my daughter's home in Salmon Creek. We talked, played, and entertained ourselves for many hours. We attended two soccer games. It was an enjoyable experience.
Doing Yang style Tai Chi, qigong, and yoga indoors because of the steady rain. Such Taiji activity requires some readjustment in the form work, but that also makes it more interesting in some ways. I did not feel strong enough to go to the workshop on Wuji this past weekend.
I read a fascinating book this weekend about the the history of the medical, pharmacological and technological improvements in the treatment of heart disease in the last 100 years. "The Heart Healers: The Misfits, Mavericks, and Rebels Who Created the Greatest Medical Breakthrough of Our Lives." This book was written by the renowned cardiologist, Dr. James S. Forrester. (St. Martin's Press, 2015, 388 pages) The individuals and teams of innovators, their dedication and creativity, their risk taking, and their hope to improve the lives of their patients are interwoven with the advances in medical science during this period. Biographical insights into the personal lives of these creative physicians, bio-tech researchers, and scientists was very revealing.
Personally, my advancing heart disease was likely slowed by the innovations and inventions of these great men and women: diagnostic methods, drugs, angioplasty, pacemaker, stents, etc.
Doing Yang style Tai Chi, qigong, and yoga indoors because of the steady rain. Such Taiji activity requires some readjustment in the form work, but that also makes it more interesting in some ways. I did not feel strong enough to go to the workshop on Wuji this past weekend.
I read a fascinating book this weekend about the the history of the medical, pharmacological and technological improvements in the treatment of heart disease in the last 100 years. "The Heart Healers: The Misfits, Mavericks, and Rebels Who Created the Greatest Medical Breakthrough of Our Lives." This book was written by the renowned cardiologist, Dr. James S. Forrester. (St. Martin's Press, 2015, 388 pages) The individuals and teams of innovators, their dedication and creativity, their risk taking, and their hope to improve the lives of their patients are interwoven with the advances in medical science during this period. Biographical insights into the personal lives of these creative physicians, bio-tech researchers, and scientists was very revealing.
Personally, my advancing heart disease was likely slowed by the innovations and inventions of these great men and women: diagnostic methods, drugs, angioplasty, pacemaker, stents, etc.
Yang Taijiquan 24 Movement Form
"At this period of wushu, the Nanking
Central Kuoshu Institute in 1956 tasked the choreography of a Taijiquan routine
what would be more suitable for popular dissemination among the masses, in
keeping with the government's egalitarian agenda. The traditional forms
were just too long and time consuming to practice, and the traditional methods
too arcane and demanding for mass propagation. The challenge was to reduce
the one hundred-odd movements of the traditional Yang Style Taijiquan, prevalent
then, to its core, by removing the many repetitive movements as well as the less
essential ones. Thus, the 24-Form Taijiquan set was created.
Instrumental in this simplification effort was Li Tianji (1913-1996) who had
been appointed a wushu research fellow at the Institute. Under official
auspices, the 24-Form Taijiquan quickly became the standard form, taught
throughout China as part of physical education curriculum in schools and
colleges. It is perhaps the best know Taijiquan form in the world today.
As widespread as it is, the 24-Form is at best an abridged version of the
traditional Yang form, a synopsis of the art."
- C. P. Ong, Taijiquan: Cultivating Inner Strength
,
2013, p. 7.
I practice this Taijiquan form twice every day. It takes from 5 to 7 minutes to perform.
You can do this indoors by adjusting to the space available, or outdoors. When done slowly and gently you don't need to do any warmup exercises unless your knees are problematic. A lovely Taijiquan form! Good for persons of all ages. This form is a cornerstone of my personal T'ai Chi Ch'uan practices.
The best book that I have seen on the subject is:
The Yang Taiji 24 Step Short Form: A Step by Step Guide for All Levels
By James Drewe
London, Singing Dragon Press, 2011.
382 pages, black and white photographs, charts, detailed descriptions, training tips.
I give information on many other fine books by other good authors on the 24 Form in my webpage: Cheng Zhao, Foen Tjoeng Lie, Eric Chaline, Le Deyin, etc..
My students tell me that their favorite instructional DVD on the 24 Form is:
Tai Chi - The 24 Forms
By Dr. Paul Lam
I have taught this lovely Tai Chi form to hundreds of people since 2000. Everyone tells me how much they enjoy learning and practicing this gentle form.
I also teach and enjoy playing the Chen Style Taijiquan 18 Movement Form created by Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei.
- C. P. Ong, Taijiquan: Cultivating Inner Strength
,
2013, p. 7. I practice this Taijiquan form twice every day. It takes from 5 to 7 minutes to perform.
You can do this indoors by adjusting to the space available, or outdoors. When done slowly and gently you don't need to do any warmup exercises unless your knees are problematic. A lovely Taijiquan form! Good for persons of all ages. This form is a cornerstone of my personal T'ai Chi Ch'uan practices.
The first Taijiquan form I learned in 1986 was the Standard 24
Movement T'ai Chi Ch'uan Form in the Yang Style of T'ai Chi Ch'uan.
At that time there were no books or instructional videotapes on this
popular form. Since that time, nearly 31 years have past. Now there
are dozens of books and instructional DVDs and webpages on the subject
of the 24 Form.
My webpage on the Standard 24 Taijiquan Form has been the most popular webpage on the Cloud Hands Website for many years. In the sidebar of this blog, you will find a quick index to this webpage.
Standard Simplified Taijiquan 24 Form.
Research by Michael P. Garofalo, M.S. This webpage includes a
detailed bibliography of books, media, links, online videos, articles,
and resources. It provides a list of the 24 movement names in
English, Chinese, French, German and Spanish, with citations for
sources of the movement names. It provides detailed descriptions of
each movement with black and white line illustrations and
photographs. It includes relevant quotations, notes, performance
times, section breakdowns, basic Tai Chi principles, and strategies
for learning the form. The Peking (Bejing) Chinese National orthodox
standard simplified 24 movement T'ai Chi Ch'uan form, created in 1956,
is the most popular form practiced all around the world. This form
uses the Yang Style of Taijiquan. Published by Green Way Research, Valley Spirit Taijiquan, Red Bluff, California: Webpage URL: http://www.egreenway.com/taichichuan/short.htm.
This
webpage provides many good suggestions for a person learning this form
on their own if there is no Tai Chi class in their area.
The best book that I have seen on the subject is:
The Yang Taiji 24 Step Short Form: A Step by Step Guide for All Levels
By James Drewe
London, Singing Dragon Press, 2011.
382 pages, black and white photographs, charts, detailed descriptions, training tips.
I give information on many other fine books by other good authors on the 24 Form in my webpage: Cheng Zhao, Foen Tjoeng Lie, Eric Chaline, Le Deyin, etc..
My students tell me that their favorite instructional DVD on the 24 Form is:
Tai Chi - The 24 Forms
By Dr. Paul Lam
I have taught this lovely Tai Chi form to hundreds of people since 2000. Everyone tells me how much they enjoy learning and practicing this gentle form.
I also teach and enjoy playing the Chen Style Taijiquan 18 Movement Form created by Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei.
Friday, October 20, 2017
The Heart of the Matter
On Wednesday of this week, Dr. Gungor, my cardiologist, did the angiogram test. He decided to have a stent inserted one of my heart arteries. The coronary angioplasty was performed by another expert surgeon.
I'm feeling pretty good now, and seem to have recovered properly from the procedure. Taking it easy and resting for a few days. No shortness of breath, lightheartedness, or chest discomfort.
I will need to take a blood thinner medicine twice a day for a year.
Hopefully, the quality of my life with improve in the coming months.
I'm feeling pretty good now, and seem to have recovered properly from the procedure. Taking it easy and resting for a few days. No shortness of breath, lightheartedness, or chest discomfort.
I will need to take a blood thinner medicine twice a day for a year.
Hopefully, the quality of my life with improve in the coming months.
Wednesday, October 18, 2017
My Health Problems
I continue to have some heart problems. Today, Dr. Gungor will perform an angiogram test at 11 am. He will give me the good or bad news afterwards. Yes, I am a bit nervous. After 71 years of good health, circumstances have changed.
The challenges of aging! Deal with them!!
Aging Well
The challenges of aging! Deal with them!!
Aging Well
Tuesday, October 17, 2017
Autumn in Southwest Washington
The autumn colors in Southwest Washington are much more dramatic than in Red Bluff, California. We are greatly enjoying the colorful display in Vancouver.
Today, we are taking a drive in the country.
Today, we are taking a drive in the country.
Sunday, October 15, 2017
October Morning Mild
“The Wheel rolls more, and Autumn returns.
Cooler the rain; the Sun lower burns.
The coloring leaves presage the Year:
All things move into harvest’s sphere.
I vow to savor fruits first picked;
nor into grief shall I be tricked.
I vow to offer what once I spurned,
and face the Turning reassured.
- Asleen O’Gaea, Celebrating the Seasons of Life: Beltane to Mabon, p. 116.
Samhain, Halloween Celebrations
Cooler the rain; the Sun lower burns.
The coloring leaves presage the Year:
All things move into harvest’s sphere.
I vow to savor fruits first picked;
nor into grief shall I be tricked.
I vow to offer what once I spurned,
and face the Turning reassured.
- Asleen O’Gaea, Celebrating the Seasons of Life: Beltane to Mabon, p. 116.
Samhain, Halloween Celebrations
"O hushed October morning mild,
Thy leaves have ripened to the fall;
Tomorrow's wind, if it be wild,
Should waste them all.
The crows above the forest call;
Tomorrow they may form and go.
O hushed October morning mild,
Begin the hours of this day slow.
Make the day seem to us less brief.
Hearts not averse to being beguiled,
Beguile us in the way you know.
Release one leaf at break of day;
At noon release another leaf;
One from our trees, one far away."
- Robert Frost, October
Thy leaves have ripened to the fall;
Tomorrow's wind, if it be wild,
Should waste them all.
The crows above the forest call;
Tomorrow they may form and go.
O hushed October morning mild,
Begin the hours of this day slow.
Make the day seem to us less brief.
Hearts not averse to being beguiled,
Beguile us in the way you know.
Release one leaf at break of day;
At noon release another leaf;
One from our trees, one far away."
- Robert Frost, October
The entrance to our front driveway in Red Bluff featured a seasonal display that Karen prepared. Karen is petting our cat, King Tut, in the early morning hours.
We now live in Vancouver, Washington.
We now live in Vancouver, Washington.
Thursday, October 12, 2017
Hobbies and Enjoyment
“Mike, an old proverb says idle hands are the devil’s work. While I don’t necessarily agree with that sentiment, I do believe that hobbies are crucial for everyone. Not only do hobbies give you a chance to focus on something besides work or school, but they also give you a way to decompress.
A lifelong lover of hobbies, I’m a quilter before anything else, but I have an appreciation for hobbies in all forms. Quilting has given me the outlet I need when it’s time to recharge, and I love that I can create works of art and useful gifts for friends and family.
Because I think hobbies are great for everyone, I’ve included some excellent resources that might interest your readers. I hope you’ll find them useful. Maybe you can share them on one of your webpages.
Why Kids Need Hobbies
The Benefits Of Having A Hobby When You're In Recovery
Find Your Passion: Making Room for Hobbies
How to Start Your Own Urban Garden
11 Healthy Hobbies for Seniors
10 Hobbies That Can Pay Off
If you already enjoy a hobby in your spare time, then you know where I’m coming from. If you don’t have a hobby, I’m hopeful these ideas can spark an interest! Of course, if this information isn’t helpful to you at all, please let me know, and I won’t contact you again.”
Thank you in advance,
Martha
Martha Geoffries
martha@quiltingjr.com
My own hobbies include: reading, gardening, writing, walking, Taijiquan, Yoga/Qigong, weightlifting, and sightseeing in the Pacific Northwest.
Wednesday, October 11, 2017
Walking and Thinking
"What is it about walking, in particular, that makes it so amenable to thinking and writing? The answer begins with changes to our chemistry. When we go for a walk, the heart pumps faster, circulating more blood and oxygen not just to the muscles but to all the organs—including the brain. Many experiments have shown that after or during exercise, even very mild exertion, people perform better on tests of memory and attention. Walking on a regular basis also promotes new connections between brain cells, staves off the usual withering of brain tissue that comes with age, increases the volume of the hippocampus (a brain region crucial for memory), and elevates levels of molecules that both stimulate the growth of new neurons and transmit messages between them.
The way we move our bodies further changes the nature of our thoughts, and vice versa. Psychologists who specialize in exercise music have quantified what many of us already know: listening to songs with high tempos motivates us to run faster, and the swifter we move, the quicker we prefer our music. Likewise, when drivers hear loud, fast music, they unconsciously step a bit harder on the gas pedal. Walking at our own pace creates an unadulterated feedback loop between the rhythm of our bodies and our mental state that we cannot experience as easily when we’re jogging at the gym, steering a car, biking, or during any other kind of locomotion. When we stroll, the pace of our feet naturally vacillates with our moods and the cadence of our inner speech; at the same time, we can actively change the pace of our thoughts by deliberately walking more briskly or by slowing down."
- Ferris Jabr, Why Walking Helps Us Think
Walking - Quotations, Sayings, Comments
The way we move our bodies further changes the nature of our thoughts, and vice versa. Psychologists who specialize in exercise music have quantified what many of us already know: listening to songs with high tempos motivates us to run faster, and the swifter we move, the quicker we prefer our music. Likewise, when drivers hear loud, fast music, they unconsciously step a bit harder on the gas pedal. Walking at our own pace creates an unadulterated feedback loop between the rhythm of our bodies and our mental state that we cannot experience as easily when we’re jogging at the gym, steering a car, biking, or during any other kind of locomotion. When we stroll, the pace of our feet naturally vacillates with our moods and the cadence of our inner speech; at the same time, we can actively change the pace of our thoughts by deliberately walking more briskly or by slowing down."
- Ferris Jabr, Why Walking Helps Us Think
Walking - Quotations, Sayings, Comments
Monday, October 09, 2017
The Wonderful Hands of Tai Chi
Tai Chi's "Wonderful Hand."
Chang Cheung-hsing's "Message of His Discovery of the General Theory of Tai Chi Ch'uan."
"Totally Yin with Yang is "Soft Hand".
Totally Yang without Yin is "Hard Hand".
10% Yin with 90% Yang is "Hard Rod Hand".
20% Yin with 80% Yang is "Combat Hand".
30% Yin with 70% Yang is "Rigid Hand".
40% Yin with 60% Yang may be classified as "Good Hand".
Only 50% Yang beautifully matched with 50% Yin, without being partial to either Yin or Yang, is regarded as "Wonderful Hand".
The execution of "Wonderful Hand: is an expression of Tai Chi.
When all images and forms are completely neutralized, things once again return to their original state of "nothingness." "
- Cloud Hands, Inc. Tai Chi Chuan: The Technique of Power, p 75. By Cloud Hands Inc., 2003. 290 pages. ISBN: 0974201308. VSCL.
My teacher, Sifu Knack, once spoke of "Blood Hand." It is when you punch so hard that the blood of your opponent is on your fist.
Hands, Touching, Grasping
Push Hands in Tai Chi Chuan
Sunday, October 08, 2017
Internal Cultivation: Bai Zi Bei
Bai Zi Bei
The Hundred Character Tablet
By Lu Dongbin
Translated by Jill Gonet, MFA
Qi Magazine, 2017, Volume 27, No. 3, p.44-51
"Guidance and Instruction on Internal Cultivation by Lu Donbin"
"To nourish the vital breath, keep watch in silence;
In order to subdue the mind, act with non-action.
Of movement and stillness, be aware of their origin;
There is no work to do, much less someone to seek.
The true and consistent must respond to phenomena;
Responding to phenomenon, you must be unconfused.
When unconfused, the nature will stabilize by itself;
When the nature stabilizes, energy returns by itself.
When energy returns, the elixir crystallizes by itself;
Within the pot, the trigrams of water and fire are joined.
Yin and yang arise, alternating over and over again;
Every transformation comes like a clap of thunder.
White clouds form and com to assemble at the peak;
Sweet nectar sprinkles down Mount Sumeru.
Swallowing for yourself this wine of immortality,
You wander so freely - who is able to know you?
Sit and listen to the tune played without strings,
Clearly understanding the mechanism of creation.
It comes entirely from these twenty lines;
A true ladder going straight to Heaven!"
"Nurturing energy, forget words and guard it.
Conquer the mind, do non-doing.
In activity and quietude, know the source progenitor.
There is no thing; whom else do you seek?
Real constancy should respond to people;
In responding to people, it is essential not to get confused.
When you don't get confused, your nature is naturally stable;
When your nature is stable, energy naturally returns.
When energy returns, Elixir spontaneously crystallizes,
In the pot pairing water and fire.
Yin and yang arise, alternating over and over again,
Everywhere producing the sound of thunder.
White clouds assemble on the summit,
Sweet dew bathes the polar mountain.
Having drunk the wine of longevity,
You wander free; who can know you?
You sit and listen to the stringless tune,
You clearly understand the mechanism of creation.
The whole of these twenty verses
is a ladder straight to heaven."
- Master Chang San-Feng
100 Character Tablet, Translated by Thomas Cleary
The Hundred Character Tablet
By Lu Dongbin
Translated by Jill Gonet, MFA
Qi Magazine, 2017, Volume 27, No. 3, p.44-51
"Guidance and Instruction on Internal Cultivation by Lu Donbin"
"To nourish the vital breath, keep watch in silence;
In order to subdue the mind, act with non-action.
Of movement and stillness, be aware of their origin;
There is no work to do, much less someone to seek.
The true and consistent must respond to phenomena;
Responding to phenomenon, you must be unconfused.
When unconfused, the nature will stabilize by itself;
When the nature stabilizes, energy returns by itself.
When energy returns, the elixir crystallizes by itself;
Within the pot, the trigrams of water and fire are joined.
Yin and yang arise, alternating over and over again;
Every transformation comes like a clap of thunder.
White clouds form and com to assemble at the peak;
Sweet nectar sprinkles down Mount Sumeru.
Swallowing for yourself this wine of immortality,
You wander so freely - who is able to know you?
Sit and listen to the tune played without strings,
Clearly understanding the mechanism of creation.
It comes entirely from these twenty lines;
A true ladder going straight to Heaven!"
"Nurturing energy, forget words and guard it.
Conquer the mind, do non-doing.
In activity and quietude, know the source progenitor.
There is no thing; whom else do you seek?
Real constancy should respond to people;
In responding to people, it is essential not to get confused.
When you don't get confused, your nature is naturally stable;
When your nature is stable, energy naturally returns.
When energy returns, Elixir spontaneously crystallizes,
In the pot pairing water and fire.
Yin and yang arise, alternating over and over again,
Everywhere producing the sound of thunder.
White clouds assemble on the summit,
Sweet dew bathes the polar mountain.
Having drunk the wine of longevity,
You wander free; who can know you?
You sit and listen to the stringless tune,
You clearly understand the mechanism of creation.
The whole of these twenty verses
is a ladder straight to heaven."
- Master Chang San-Feng
100 Character Tablet, Translated by Thomas Cleary
Friday, October 06, 2017
A Positive Path in Old Age
Seven Strategies for Positive Aging
1. You can find meaning in old age.
2. You're never to old to learn.
3. You can use the past to cultivate wisdom.
4. You can strengthen life-span relationships.
5. You can promote growth through giving and receiving help.
6. You can forgive yourself and others.
7. You can possess a grateful attitude.
- Robert T. Hill, Ph.D., Seven Strategies for Positive Aging, 2008
"Do, Don't Stew." - Dr. Albert Ellis
Smile while you are still around.
Thursday, October 05, 2017
Knowing Things Through Touching
One has eyes everywhere and knows things through touching.
"Even if one becomes blind one can still use the hands to touch the nose.
One has eyes everywhere and knows things through touching.
This is the spirit of one's heart, containing the heaven's and earth.
One can see without eyes and listen without ears.
If one is able to calm down and not be agitated by desires,
one can know that one can return to the place where one comes from."
- Saints and Sinners Reach the Same Goal Chapter, Verses 13-18
"Translating the Xi Sui Jing" by Kevin Siddons and Hongyan Chen
Qi - The Journal of Traditional Health and Fitness
Autumn 2017, Volume 27, No. 3, p. 34
Hands On: Touching, Feeling, Grasping
"Touch has a memory"
- John Keats
Push Hands, Sensing Hands
Cloud Hands: Taijiquan
Wednesday, October 04, 2017
Crazy Killers with Arsenals
Another disheartening tragedy in Las Vegas! The senseless mass murder of 59 people, and the injuring of over 500 people at an outdoor country music concert. Distressing, unfathomable, horrific, evil, shameful. A deep sorrow for all affected and concerned. A very sad day!
I've written numerous times about these terrible incidents and my response to them. For Example, Prepping for the Kill in 2015.
How many guns did the wealthy heartless killer Stephen Paddock own? Police found 42, 19 at the crime scene. Seriously, 42 rifles and guns. The cruel diversions of some rich men are disgusting.
I realize that even with strict gun control, like that found in more peaceful countries without frequent mass murders, this will not prevent some murder. However, maybe NOT the murder of 59 persons and injuring over 500 people in one unforgettable night.
I've written numerous times about these terrible incidents and my response to them. For Example, Prepping for the Kill in 2015.
How many guns did the wealthy heartless killer Stephen Paddock own? Police found 42, 19 at the crime scene. Seriously, 42 rifles and guns. The cruel diversions of some rich men are disgusting.
I realize that even with strict gun control, like that found in more peaceful countries without frequent mass murders, this will not prevent some murder. However, maybe NOT the murder of 59 persons and injuring over 500 people in one unforgettable night.
Tuesday, October 03, 2017
Tai Chi Training at Northwest Tai Chi and Qigong
This morning, I joined the Northwest Tai Chi and Qigong Studio in downtown Vancouver, WA. I believe it is now called the "Vancouver Tai Chi and Qigong Studio," run by students of Sifu Brian Knack and, this far, by Sifu himself.
I am uncertain about whether or not the studio is "closing" in the Spring of 2018. Nevertheless, I will join now and see what happens.
I attended a one hour Taiji class. We did gentle warmups and then the 108 Yang form. The room was quite warm. Naturally, I was tense and anxious. Performance anxiety when doing the Yang long form after not doing it for the last year, and adjusting to the slight variations in angles and hand movements by this group. I sweated a great deal and got a bit woosy and weak. I had to sit and drink water offered by Sandy. Sifu went over principles of movement in legs, gua, waist, emptying weight, etc..; all good information. I was very tired afterwards, and slept for 1.5 hours when I came home.
Sifu Brian Knack and his senior students operate this Tai Chi training center in the Vancouver Health and Wellness Building at 202 E. Mcloughlin Blvd., Vancouver, 360-607-8240. Also, on Facebook.
Taijiquan and Qigong Class Schedule:
Tuesday
Qigong
Tuesday – QiGong @ 9:00 am
Tai Chi @ 10:00 am
Advanced Tai Chi @ 5:30 pm
Beginning Tai Chi @ 6:30 pm
Advanced Tai Chi and Push Hands @ 7:30 pm
Saturday
Qigong and Tai Chi 10:00 am - 11:30
Master Shanti will be back for another workshop - continuing on with our Wuji exploration moving more into form work and partner work. It will be Saturday Oct21st @ 10am - 1pm. Cost will be $45 (cash only). I plan to attend.
Sifu Bryan Knack began studying martial arts in the mid-70's, begining with the external martial arts of Goju-ryu (Okinawan karate) and Siu Lum Kung Fu in the 1980's. Then he turned his studies to TAI CHI and QI GONG and had a training center in Portland, Oregon.
He returned to his hometown of Spokane to open his own studio, NORTHWEST TAI CHI FOR HEALTH in 2000. Sifu Knack returned to the Vancouver/Portland in 2011 area to be close to family.
Sifu Knack offers study in many disciplines:
* Tai Chi Yang Style * Tai Chi Chen Style
* Qi Gong * Zhan Zhaung * Chin Na
* Push Hands * Weapons
Tai Chi is fun. We offer an affordable program for multiple section classes for a monthly charge or a small fee for each class you attend."
Currently, on Thursday afternoon, a small group is studying the Chen broadsword form by invitation.
Monday, October 02, 2017
Good Advice from the Doctor
I have benefited from reading and adopting the ideas and
suggestions of Andrew Weil, M.D.. His
books are informative and provide persuasive facts and arguments for using “integrative
medicine” to achieve improved health and well-being. Persons of all ages can benefit from his
advice, and his book “Healthy Aging” is especially relevant to seniors like
myself. Those who practice Taijiquan,
Qigong, and Yoga will find support for their practices in Dr. Weil’s
writing.
Eight
Weeks to Optimum Health: A Proven Program for Taking Full Advantage of Your
Body’s Natural Healing Power. By Andrew
Weil, M.D.. Ballantine Books, 2007. 320 pages.
ISBN: 978-0345498021. VSCL.
Spontaneous
Happiness: A New Path the Emotional Well-Being. By Andrew Weil, M.D.. Little Brown and Co., 2013. 288 pages.
ISBN: 978-0316129428. VSCL.
Healthy
Aging: A Lifelong Guide to Your Well-Being.
By Andrew Weil, M.D.. Anchor
Books, 2007. 368 pages. ISBN: 978-0307277541. VSCL.
“Andrew Weil, M.D., is a world-renowned leader and pioneer in the field of integrative medicine, a healing oriented approach to health care which encompasses body, mind, and spirit. Combining a Harvard education and a lifetime of practicing natural and preventive medicine, Dr. Weil is the founder and director of the Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona Health Sciences Center, where he is also a Clinical Professor of Medicine and Professor of Public Health and the Lovell-Jones Professor of Integrative Rheumatology. Dr. Weil received both his medical degree and his undergraduate AB degree in biology (botany) from Harvard University. Dr. Weil is an internationally-recognized expert for his views on leading a healthy lifestyle, his philosophy of healthy aging, and his critique of the future of medicine and health care. Online, he is the editorial director of www.drweil.com, the leading web resource for healthy living based on the philosophy of integrative medicine; and, can be found on Facebook (facebook.com/drweil), Approximately 10 million copies of Dr. Weil's books have been sold, including "Spontaneous Healing," "8 Weeks to Optimum Health," "Eating Well for Optimum Health," "The Healthy Kitchen," "Healthy Aging," and "Why Our Health Matters."”
- Quotation from Amazon Books
Here are some of my webpages related to these subjects:
Happiness, Well-Being, Flourishing
How to Live a Good Life
Aging Well
Paths to Fitness and Well Being
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