Li Family T’ai Chi Ch’uan Form - Often Translated as ‘The Supreme Ultimate’ the T’ai Chi form consists of a long sequence of flowing movements performed at a slow rhythmic pace with deep co-ordinated breathing and full concentration. The form consists of 140 movements in 42 sections, which contain the essence of health and longevity and help the practitioner to develop strong internal energy.
A moving meditation, T’ai Chi Ch’uan promotes a sense of inner peace and tranquillity.
Benefits of the Taoist Arts – People of all ages, culture, religion, lifestyle and belief practise the Taoist arts throughout the world.
The gentleness of the Taoist physical culture ensures that anyone practising does not suffer strain and other muscular injuries, but obtains greater strength and stamina while developing a flexible and supple body.
Health: Regular practice can lead to an improvement in stress related illnesses; it also has a positive effect on general health and Well-being, and brings increased vitality.
Physical: Taoist exercise develops the physical body enabling it to achieve and maintain it’s natural potential for health and fitness with Coordination of movement. Coordination improves, as does sensitivity and balance. Self-discipline and bodily control are the first steps to personal growth and development.
Mental: The growth in physical control and stability is reflected in the form of a balanced mind, capable of making rational decisions and taking responsibility. T’ai Chi calms the spirit. Sharpens the faculties and improves sensitivity and awareness. Meditation stimulates and clears the mind, which becomes free, active and spontaneous.
Emotional: Good breathing, balance and a calm mental state help to stabilise the emotions. The physical and mental exercise provides a healthy channel for emotional energy. The Arts can help stimulate and release blocked energy and facilitate positive emotional expression.
Spiritual: The Taoist philosophy of Yin and Yang is inherent in all phases of growth and development. In it’s highest application the Taoist Arts teach the principles of natural spiritual Growth.
The Li Family System
A range of Taoist health, cultural and Wu Shu arts collectively known a the ‘Eight Strands of the Brocade’ have been passed down within the Li Family of Wei Hei Wei, North Eastern China for 3000 years. The style remained exclusive to the Li Family until the 1930’s when Professor Lee Chan Kam first taught it in England.
When Lee Chan Kam died in 1953 the Arts were passed on to his adopted nephew Master Chee Soo, who taught the system until his death in 1994.
After Master Chee Soo’s death, 30 of his Tengchi (teacher) grades approached Tony Swanson, one of his senior instructors, to lead an organisation dedicated to teaching the system in a professional manner whilst preserving the purity and quality of the Arts. As a result, the Taoist Arts Organisation was formed in February 1995. Within a month a further 30 of Chee Soo’s qualified instructors had joined.
The Li Family system contains a balance of Yin and Yang movements and aims to achieve perfect homeostasis within the body.
The Li Family System of Taoist Arts as Taught by the Taoist Arts Organisation.
T’ai Chi Ch’uan: Form and Dance.
Feng Shou: Hand of the Wind self defence.
Chi Shu; Taoist throwing Art.
Tao Yin: Breathing Exercise.
K’ai Men: Taoist Yoga.
Chi Kung: Internal Energy Development.
Li Kung: External Energy Development.
I Fu Shou: Sticky Hands.
Lun Shou: Whirling Hands.
Lun Pei: Whirling Arms.
Weapons: T’ai Chi, Feng Shou and Chi Shu Stick, Sword, Silk and Fan.
Anmo: Taoist Massage
Meditation: Relaxation and Concentration.
Mo Kun: Advanced Mental Control.
The Various forms and sections all combine to reinforce each other and deepen one’s understanding for health, harmony and happiness.