Tai Chi Chuan & TCM
When Tai Chi Chuan was being created by Chen Wangting (1580 – 1660) during the end of the Ming Dynasty, obviously he was not referencing science or western medicine, but the indigenous Alchemy and TCM; Traditional Chinese Medicine available at the time.
TCM is based on the paradigm of Qi; energy circulating throughout the whole body via river-like pathways; Jing Luo meridians associated with the various organ systems. Energy accumulates abundantly and is stored in three large areas called Dan Tian; Elixir Fields, and in reservoir-like Channels.
Illness and disease is a result of a malfunction in the system, where Qi stagnates depriving organs of energy, or conversely, offering them too much energy. Feast or famine. The system is out of balance. Inflammation and pain can accompany these blockages. Treatment usually involves adjusting the flow of Qi by stimulating points along the meridians to tonify or sedate. This can be done mechanically using Acupuncture needles, pressure through massage, and performing exercises consisting of specific movements and breathing methods from Qigong; Energy Work. Herbology and Dietary are two other traditional approachs for maintaining and restoring health.
As a practitioner of Tai Chi Chuan and Qigong, we don’t have to get a degree in TCM, but through a fundamental study we can learn to apply safe and effective techniques that can be part of a Yangsheng; Nourishing Life practice. This chart contains points that are commonly referenced.
The Centerline; Tai Chi Pole is illustrated as the vertical line running from the Hui Yin (Bottom of the Sea point located at the perineum – most yin point of the body) to the Bai Hui (1000 Convergences point located at the crown – most Yang point of the body). A major study and practice is the Microcosmic Orbit that opens the three gates in the back, running up the Du Channel, and accumulating energy in the three Dan Tian in the front, running down the Ren Channel.
It is interesting to note that Yang Chenfu’s first three points of his 10 Essentials directly addresses these three gates in the back.
- Empty the neck. Raise the Spirit. (Cervical)
- Contain the Chest. Raise the Back. (Thoracic)
- Loosen the Waist. (Lumbar)
Learning to manipulate these gates properly can have a profound effect on the ability to absorb and issue energy out of the body (Fa Jin; Issuing energy).
Please see my book for more information.