What is Taiji?
Taiji is a Chinese cosmological term for the “Supreme Ultimate” state of undifferentiated absolute and infinite potential, the oneness before duality, from which Yin and Yang originate.
Taiji is understood to be the highest conceivable principle from which existence flows. This is very similar to the Daoist idea “reversal is the movement of the Dao”. The “Supreme Ultimate” creates yang and yin: movement generates yang; when its activity reaches its limit, it becomes tranquil.
Through tranquility, the Supreme Ultimate generates yin. When tranquility has reached its limit, there is a return to movement. Movement and tranquility, in alternation, become each the source of the other. The distinction between the yin and yang is determined and the two forms (that is, the yin and yang) stand revealed. By the transformations of the yang and the union of the yin, the 5 elements (Qi) of water, fire, wood, metal, and earth are produced. These 5 Qi become diffused, which creates harmony. Once there is harmony the 4 seasons can occur. Yin and yang produced all things, and these in their turn produce and reproduce, this makes these processes never-ending. (Wu, 1986) Taiji underlies the practical Taijiquan (T’ai Chi Ch’uan) – A Chinese internal martial art based on the principles of Yin and Yang and Taoist philosophy, and devoted to internal energetic and physical training. Taijiquan is represented by five family styles: Chen, Yang, Wu(Hao), Wu, and Sun. There are also several offshoots of the five families as well as more recent simplified and combined styles for competition.
Dr. James has practiced Taiji his whole life, becoming a certified teacher in 2013. Practicing with everyone from professional athletes to grandmothers to teenagers to veterans, Taiji crosses all boundaries and eliminates all obstacles that separate us from nature, allowing our souls to find balance within the energy of the Universe.
Stress relief, mobility, balance, breathwork, coordination, and strength are all results of a strong Taiji practice. Don’t be surprised if harmony in your life soon follows.
Come practice Taiji with Dr. James today!