Preface

Xue Yongbin

What is Taijiquan (Tai Chi Chuan)? What is Qigong? What are their characteristics? How to practice them effectively?

Here, we will give an outline of their history, philosophical background and current situation, so that people will have a general understanding of them.

Although Taijiquan and Qigong both have a long history, a deep philosophy and many forms that have been well developed, our purpose in studying them is mainly to achieve good health, effective self-defense skills, and to make ourselves strong psychologically and mentally.

We have researched into the theory, practice and skills, and philosophical background of Taijiquan and Qigong, we have discussed the connections between Taijiquan and Qigong, and also the differences between them; and we will continue to report on the various activities we organize.

As a form of physical exercise to gain health, Taijiquan has spread and gained in popularity for more than 50 years; now, it is recognized and understood to a certain degree in many countries in the world. However, the spread of Qigong has only taken place over a period of 20 years. At some point in time, there were instances of some people claiming possession of super-natural power; this negatively affected the development and popularization of Qigong. We believe that we should do our best to objectively introduce Qigong to people, so that people will gain real benefits from it; it is time for us to assume social responsibilities.

Taijiquan and Qigong originated from the East; so therefore at times, they may seem to have certain mysticism about with them. We believe that Taijiquan and Qigong are a result of combining physical and psychological activities of human beings, the rationality of Taijiquan and Qigong conforms closely with human thought, and they are very effective when applied; people can understand them easily. We have noticed that there are close connections between Taijiquan and Qigong, and Physics, Medicine, Psychology, Arts, Martial Arts and religion. We believe that with research into these connections, we will gradually improve our understanding of the nature of Taijiquan and Qigong.

Our predecessors have left us with their precious and outstanding achievements in research and practice of Taijiquan and Qigong. They have formed many schools of Taijiquan and Qigong, which are creative and unique; and yet, still there is room for development. We must cherish their achievements, study conscientiously to inherit the essence, and do our best to develop both the form and content of Taijiquan and Qigong, to meet people's new needs.

We believe that only with continued development we truly inherit the achievements of our predecessors and further enrich and develop Taijiquan and Qigong.

Listening to criticism will help in achieving betterment, exchange of different views will further development. We wish to hear comments from instructors and practitioners of other schools in Taijiquan and Qigong, and we would like to exchange views with anyone who is interested in Taijiquan or in Qigong.