According to Master Liao, the great power of T'ai Chi cannot be realized without knowing its inner meaning. T'ai Chi Classics presents the inner meaning and techniques of T'ai Chi movements through translations of three core classics of T'ai Chi, often considered the 'Tai Chi Bible.' The texts are introduced by three chapters explaining how to increase inner energy (ch'i), transform it into inner power (jing), and project its inner power outward to repel an opponent without physical contact. Mster Liao also provides a description of the entire sequence of T'ai Chi movements, illustrated by his own line drawings.

Master Waysun Lao studied T'ai Chi in central Taiwan before coming to the United States, where he has taught the art for thirty years. He also practices herbal medicine, acupuncture, and feng-shui.

Contents

Preface
1 Historical and philosophical background
What is T'ai Chi?
The systematization of T'ai Chi
2 Ch'i: The internal energy of t'ai chi
How to cultivate ch'i
Condensing breathing: the process that turns ch'i into jing
How to increase ch'i awareness
3 Jing: Developing and transferring internal power
Drumming and vibrating the ch'i
Yin/Yang motion theory
The role of the mind
How to transfer (project) internal power
Two-person practice and internal power transfer
Application of internal power transfer to the martial arts
The sixteen steps and four secret
Procedures for transferring power
Conclusion
4 T'ai Chi Classics I: Treatise by Master Chang San-feng
5 T'ai Chi Classics II: Treatise by Master Wong Chung-yua
6 T'ai Chi Classics III: Treatise by Master Wu Yu-hsiang
7 The T'ai Chi meditative movement
The five virtues and the eight truths of t'ai chi
Key points to observe in t'ai chi practice
T'ai chi meditative movement: the form