All Belongs

In studying Justin’s writings on the T’ai Chi Chih form, I begin to realize that there are many places where he uses variations in speaking of the same thing. I’d like to share just two examples of this in the T’ai Chi Chih Photo Text. I’m grateful to Good Karma Publishing for updating this important resource; see the Third Edition, printed in 2009. KG sat with Justin with the photo text highlighted with discrepancies – within the text and with differences in the instructional DVD. And she asked for (and received) clarification for all passages and wording. Many thanks for the updates in this vital teaching tool for teachers and their students.

During various TCC retreats we examine the pause in between movements. In researching places in the photo text where it is mentioned, I discovered that Justin uses several words to describe the same thing. We collectively name it the “Rest Pose” but in the text that same pose is referred to as a graceful finishing pose (pg. 27); a rest position (pg. 28); the closing position (pg. 30); graceful close (pg. 32); closing posture/repose (pg. 38); rest pose (pg. 44); position of repose (pg. 46); position of rest (pg. 52); and graceful conclusion (pg. 62). Several references are made to knees and hands in that rest position: “lowered to the sides (not in front) in a graceful finishing pose with our knees slightly bent” (pg. 27) and with “palms down and parallel to the ground” (pg. 30).

No matter what it is called, these four to five seconds of focusing in the soles of the feet are essential in allowing the yin Chi and yang Chi to balance as it reunites.

The other place that was a delightful discovery years ago is the variety of examples as Justin describes ways in which to practice the TCC movements. You are invited to read those references on pages 5, 12, 13 and 18. It is in these pages that Justin mentions the time of day, speed of movements, etc. The important caution is to “practice regularly.” It seems, from the above four examples, that there is never one way that we must practice, but that is left up to the individual. During conference, Justin would always urge teachers to tell their students to “practice the movements they enjoyed doing,” knowing full well that the more integral movements would prevent practice from happening at all. An important statement on pg. 13 is: “… it is more advantageous to learn all the movements and get the benefits from each.” We don’t even need to practice in a specific order, although there is a “suggested order” that most do follow in teaching and in preparation for teacher training.

Justin is very open in his description of how the TCC form evolved when he writes: “I began around 1969 to experiment with my own form…” Yes, the form is also referred to as: “Joy thru Movement, the form is to be fun; there is no need to force.”

I’d like to also consider the words: “Naturally, TCC teaching methods have evolved as classes proliferated…” and “TCC, like all growing forms, evolve and not remain stagnant. To remain unchanging is to die.” Justin respects the uniqueness of the individual teacher in how they convey the TCC form as well as great freedom in ways to set up classes, retreats, workshops or seminars. Perhaps in the future there will be webinars. The webcam has already been used to prepare teacher candidates who would otherwise not have been able to obtain a second signature due to living in isolated areas.

One of the benefits of TCC practice is creativity. Our TCC community is blest with infinite gifts and talents. We have a bright future, because you are the future, and as a community, we will move into that future together.

It is my hope that we will be united in that movement into the future. One way is through the mission statement that is the product of many hours of reflection by over 20 teachers in the U.S. and England. The finalized statement is dated November 20, 2011 in respect for Justin and for his 95th Birthday. You are welcome to use it in advertisements, on t-shirts, pamphlets, etc.

The International T’ai Chi Chih Community

of students and accredited teachers

is dedicated to the personal practice of

T’ai Chi Chih,

and to sharing with the world

this form of moving meditation

and its benefits, affecting

body, mind and spirit.

Wishing you Peace and all Good.