T'AI CHI CHU'AN

The Form

Often translated as 'The Supreme Ultimate' the T'ai Chi Form consists of a long sequence of flowing movements performed at a slow and rhythmic pace with deep co-ordinated breathing and full concentration. These movements contain the essence of health and longevity and help the practitioner to develop strong internal energy. A moving meditation, T'ai Chi promotes a sense of inner peace and tranquility.

The Lee Family System T'ai Chi Form consists of 142 movements contained in 41 sequences. Each sequence is named, for example Gather Celestial Energy, or Grasp the Bird's Tail.

T'ai Chi Fei Shou

The Dance or Flying Hands

The Lee Family system is most unusual in having a separate Dance or Flying Hands. This consists of 182 moves which are larger and sweeping and circular. The Dance is perfirmed at a higher speed than the Form and works on different energy systems. Here the Li (external) energy systems are tuned into, the Li energy is taken into one's body thereby revitalising the body's own energy systems. The structure of the Dance is based around Five Element Theory and is a more recent development than the Form, perhaps only three hundred years old.

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