The Mind Inside Yang Tai Chi: Lao Liu Lu 22-Posture Short Form

by Henry Yinghao Zhuang

Overview

This is the anticipated follow-up to the author's previous work, The Mind Inside Tai Chi (YMAA, 2015). In this edition he turns his attention to Yang style, guiding you through the 22-step form with an eye for detail and a love of nuance.

“Tai chi is born from wuji, a state of emptiness,” Zhuang writes. “Empty the mind.There is no yin or yang, no you or others.”

From this state of balance and grace, the author leads you through the Yang form,one step at a time. Illustrations with motion arrows guide your physical movements, while Zhuang's “mind approach” helps you appreciate the subtleties of each posture. Rich descriptions and vivid imagery bring the art to life.

• Begin with “nothing” by stilling the body and mind.
• Channel your intent to stimulate the flow of chi.
• Learn the entire 22-step Yang form.
• Explore the “mind approach,” discovering a deeper understanding of each posture.

The author instructs you on correct physical posture, footwork, weight distribution, and tempo. He also describes subtle aspects of the form,including vision, relaxation, and the flow of chi.

This book includes:

• The history and lineage ofYang style.
• Photographs of the author performing each posture.
• Motion arrows depicting the movements of the entire form.

If you are unfamiliar with Yang style, The Mind Inside Yang Style Tai Chi is the perfect place to begin. If you are a longtime practitioner, Henry Zhuang's insight will deepen your appreciation for this art.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781594393549
Publisher:	YMAA Publication Center
Publication date:	07/01/2016
Series:	Mind Inside Tai Chi , #2
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	232
File size:	25 MB
Note:	This product may take a few minutes to download.

About the Author

Henry (Yinghao) Zhuang has been involved with tai chi for over thirty years. Starting as self-taught, and then seeking formal instruction, the author is in a unique position to help others on this rewarding, but sometimes solo journey of seeking health and happiness through tai chi practice. Henry Zhaung is a chief real estate appraiser, and resides in Shanghai, China.

Table of Contents

Editorial Notes xiii

Foreword xvii

Chapter 1 Introduction of Yang-Style Lao Liu Lu Taijiquan 1

1-1 Origin and Inheritance 1

1-2 The Features of Yang-Style Lao Liu Lu 8

1-3 Mind Approach in Practicing Taijiquan 8

1-4 Key Factors of Mind Approach in Practicing Taijiquan 9

Chapter 2 The Mind Approach of Yang-Style Lao Liu Lu (Twenty-Two Form) Taijiquan 37

2-1 Preparation Form 37

2-2 List of Yang-Style Lao Liu Lu Forms 41

2-3 Yang-Style Lao Liu Lu Complete Form 42

Glossary 207

Index 213

About Henry Zhuang 215

Editorial Reviews

This substantial martial arts reference book will lead tai chi disciples to greater understanding and more healthful living.
New and experienced students of Yang-style tai chi will appreciate the well-illustrated and direct approach Henry Zhuang has taken with The Mind Inside Yang Style Tai Chi: Lao Liu Lu 22-Posture Short Form.
For martial arts practitioners, the philosophy and form of each movement are united in purpose. By combining annotated photographs and simple, step-by-step instructions, this book effectively breaks down each tai chi posture into its functional parts. The illustrations work especially well in tandem with accompanying paragraphs that describe the intention behind each motion. This “mind approach” element of the form, which is integral to its effectiveness, is communicated clearly throughout the book, particularly through the application of several key mental visualization cues.
“Beginning taijiquan [tai chi] enthusiasts…must approach the practice of taijiquan as something more than an aerobic exercise,” the text asserts. “To learn the subtlety of the use of internal force and power, one must learn the mind approach of the internal power.” Zhuang’s interpretations of tai chi techniques are a valuable contribution, and operate well alongside the traditional descriptions of how to manipulate internal power. This title stands to offer even experienced students new ways of understanding the foundations of tai chi practice.
The book includes a careful outline of the historical lineage of this martial arts style and its carefully guarded transmission through the generations, underscoring its hidden value as a combative art, in addition to its reputation for developing inner power and longevity. Historical portions of the text might have benefited from additional finessing, as some grammatical constructions suggest awkward translations or other stylistic snags; nonetheless, the material is approachable and adds meaningful context to more practical sections.
While there may be no substitute for studying directly with an experienced teacher, The Mind Inside Yang Style Tai Chi is a solid martial arts reference book. With it, Zhuang not only helps to preserve the foundations of the style and its applications for posterity, but also leads new generations of disciples toward an understanding of tai chi’s deeper purpose, through which they can pursue more meaningful, healthful lives.

Foreword Reviews - Patty Comeau