A Brief History of Tai Chi

According to legend, Tai Chi was created by Zhang Sanfeng, a Taoist monk, in the 12th century. It's said that Zhang observed a fight between a snake and a crane, which inspired him to develop a martial art based on the principles of balance and harmony.

While the legend of Zhang Sanfeng is widely popular, the historical origins of Tai Chi can be traced back to the Chen Village in Henan Province during the 17th century. It's believed that Chen Wangting, a military general and martial artist, developed the original Chen-style Tai Chi. The Chen family kept Tai Chi Quan a closely guarded secret for generations, passing it down within the family. Chen-style Tai Chi is characterized by its explosive power, fast movements, and low stances.

Over time, Tai Chi spread beyond the Chen Village, and different styles emerged, each with its unique characteristics and forms. Notable styles include Yang, Wu, Wu (Hao), and Sun styles.

Yang Luchan, a former servant in the Chen Village, is credited with popularizing Tai Chi during the 19th century. He modified the Chen-style movements, making them more accessible to the general public. Yang-style Tai Chi is known for its slow, graceful movements and is the most widely practiced style worldwide.

Tai Chi is deeply rooted in Taoist philosophy, particularly the concept of Yin and Yang, symbolizing the balance of opposites. Practitioners seek to harmonize these opposing forces within themselves.

While Tai Chi is a martial art, it's also practiced for its numerous health benefits. Its slow, gentle movements promote relaxation, improve balance, flexibility, and strength, and reduce stress.

Tai Chi has gained popularity worldwide, not only as a martial art but also as a form of exercise and meditation. It's practiced by people of all ages for its physical, mental, and spiritual benefits.

In addition to its traditional practice, Tai Chi has also evolved into a competitive sport, with standardized forms for tournaments. However, many practitioners still focus on its original martial and health aspects.

Tai Chi continues to evolve, with new interpretations, applications, and variations emerging while still holding onto its rich historical and philosophical roots.

Master Su Tong Yu visits Monk Wise

At a glance:  

Youth ages 4-12 Chain Whip Clinic                                                   Adult Chain Whip Clinic

Youth ages 8-12 Long Sword Clinic                                                  Adult Long Sword Clinic 

Youth ages 8-12 Tai Chi Clinic                                                             Adult Tai Chi Clinic

Look below for special pricing on bundling more than one clinic.  Also Saturday dinner.

Master Su Tong Yu comes to Monk Wise

master Su Tong Yu leading monk Wise students in taijiquan (Tai Chi)

master Su Tong Yu leading monk Wise students in taijiquan (Tai Chi)

Master Su Tong Yu will be at Monk Wise from April 22nd - 28th.  He will be teaching private lessons and conducting seminars throughout the week.  Schedule and Sign-up as soon as possible.  

Master Su Tong Yu with Janet Hough of Monk Wise

Master Su Tong Yu with Janet Hough of Monk Wise

Master Su Tong Yu with Master Woolsey

Master Su Tong Yu with Master Woolsey


Master Su Tong Yu

Miao Dao Clinic

- CLINIC WILL BE SATURDAY THE 25TH AT 12:00PM

- FEE IS $60

- MIAO DAO AND TAI CHI CLINIC COMBINED ONLY $90, SAVE $30


Master Su Tong Yu

Tai Chi Clinic

- CLINIC WILL BE SATURDAY THE 25TH AT 5:00PM

- FEE IS $60

- TAI CHI AND MIAO DAO CLINIC COMBINED ONLY $90, SAVE $30


Youth

Chain Whip Clinic

- CLINIC WILL BE FRIDAY THE 24TH AT 5:00PM

-FEE FOR CLINIC IS $45 FOR THE FIRST FAMILY MEMBER AND ONLY $25 FOR ADDITIONAL MEMBERS.

- CHAIN WHIP, AND MIAO DAO CLINIC COMBINED ONLY $90, SAVE $30


Adult

Chain Whip Clinic

- CLINIC WILL BE SUNDAY THE 26TH AT 10:00AM

- FEE FOR CLINIC IS $45 FOR THE FIRST FAMILY MEMBER AND ONLY $25 FOR ADDITIONAL MEMBERS.

- CHAIN WHIP, MIAO DAO AND TAI CHI CLINIC COMBINED ONLY $115, SAVE $50


Master Su Tong Yu has made a career of the martial arts.  Training many professional athletes.  Being a renowned master and champion himself.  :Read more about Master Su Tong Yu here  

*If interested you and a friend or family member may spend the day with Su Tong Yu and Monk Wise on April 25th.  Su Tong Yu will be in class Saturday morning.  Then we have the Miao Dao Clinic.  After that we will head down to the Japanese Festival to watch the Monk Wise performance team (we may even be able to convince Master Su Tong Yu to perform on stage as well).  After that we will be back to the studio for the Tai Chi Clinic.  After the clinic students are invited to join all of the Masters for dinner.  Again friends and family are welcome to attend any of the clinics (this is a great opportunity to get an interested friend or family member to taste the art for themselves).

We hope to see you all there!!