Reasons for Choosing Tai Chi Chuan

There’s a question that I frequently find wearisome, a query that seems perpetually devoid of meaning: “Can Tai Chi Chuan be employed in combat with its slow movements? Is it effective for self-defense?” Tai Chi Chuan can indeed be applied in practical combat situations. However, its use in combat is not my primary concern. If my main objective were to conquer adversaries in combat, I would have chosen a different martial art.

Like many others, I initially became intrigued by martial arts as a means to physically manifest the intrinsic spirit of competition and combat that arises from within. In our youth, we are often drawn to competition, conflict, and the rivalry between ourselves and others. As time progresses, this interest, rooted in an external “fighting spirit,” gradually transforms and turns inward, directing our attention towards concepts such as energy (qi), spirituality, health, and similar facets. I consider this transformation to be a part of personal growth and evolution.

At this juncture, Tai Chi Chuan emerged as the practice that harmoniously melded martial arts, energy theory, and well-being. Tai Chi Chuan encompasses not only martial arts but also qigong, internal strength, and even medical components. It draws from Taoist philosophy, ultimately guiding individuals towards spiritual enlightenment.

The reason why Tai Chi Chuan has successfully integrated martial arts, energy theory, health, and spirituality into a cohesive whole likely stems from the fact that many of its founders underwent similar internal transformations, as my teacher speculates.

This conclusion is not grounded in concrete records but rather extrapolated from personal experiences. Nevertheless, I wholeheartedly align with this perspective.

Several revered masters whom I deeply respect also assert that in today’s peaceful world, the likelihood of encountering the dire situation of “being fatally stabbed with a knife” is exceedingly rare. The battles we engage in during our everyday lives are more likely tied to stress within us. Instances where we genuinely have to battle for our lives are primarily linked to common diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and so forth.

In line with the adage, “illness originates in the mind,” I believe it is crucial to develop the means to fortify not only our external selves but also our internal selves, including our health and well-being, and nurture the resilience to confront these challenges.

For me, this encapsulates the essence of Tai Chi Chuan.