Chia Mantak, Li Juan. The Inner Structure of Tai Chi: Mastering the Classic Forms of Tai Chi Chi Kung

Rochester: Destiny Books ., — 2005 . — 264 p . — ISBN: 978-1-59477-842-1 Explores the deep , internal work necessary for the effective practice of tai chi
Reveals the Taoist principles that gave birth to the Yang - style tai chi forms
Shows how tai chi can circulate powerful healing energies through the body.
Taoist adepts developed tai chi as both a martial art and a way to cultivate their physical body , energy body , and spirit body . Like all Taoist exercises , its main purpose is to form a connection to the basic energy that is the foundation of all life : chi . Until the beginning of the twentieth century , tai chi was considered a secret practice that was passed down only within a closely knit structure of family and loyal disciples . Despite its widespread growth in popularity as a martial art and health exercise , many of its underlying internal practices remain unknown . The Inner Structure of Tai Chi explores the deep , internal work necessary for the effective practice of tai chi . Designed for practitioners at every level , the book contains step - by - step illustrated instructions for mastering the 13 forms of early Yang - style tai chi , also known as Tai Chi Chi Kung . The authors demonstrate the relationship of the inner structure of tai chi to the absorption , transformation , and circulation of the three forces that animate all life – the Universal force , the Cosmic force , and the Earth force – revealing the principles and practices necessary to receive the full spectrum of physical , psychological , and spiritual benefits that tai chi can bring.