| Feature Article Words of Wisdom from a World Famous Tai Chi Grandmaster
–
Chief Instructor Brett Wagland
Grandmaster Fu Sheng Yuan, fifth generation of the Yang Style
Tai Chi, is 70 years old, yet he remains strong, healthy and full of energy. He has just
completed a three month teaching tour of Europe and South America. He visited the Academy
in Canberra for a series of workshops in June 2001, before returning home to Perth. Below
is an account of some of Grandmaster Fu's teachings.
 During the workshops, Grandmaster Fu described
the qualities of Tai Chi. He stated that the movements should be rounded and circular, not
angular. Tai Chi is always moving and flowing, like water or clouds. The above qualities
enhance circulation, freedom of movement and mindfulness. When you study a Tai Chi
practitioner's body, you will notice that the shoulders are dropped, the chest is relaxed
and the back is rounded. The arms are never fully extended; the elbows are always off
lock. A seasoned practitioner's body is based on circles, even the legs, that is, the
thighs and knees are rounded.
Grandmaster Fu emphasised the importance of keeping the shoulders relaxed. One avoids
using too much strength in the shoulders and upper body when practising. The Tai Chi form
should be performed naturally, without extra movement and unnecessary effort.
Movements are to be practised slowly and calmly. This trains awareness. In the beginning,
breathing is natural. As your practice matures, the breath is coordinated with each
movement, allowing the body to stay relaxed.
Combining the above qualities with consistency in speed throughout the form ensures
continuity. A practitioner's body is moving continuously, especially the waist. The waist
controls and links the upper and lower parts of the body. Developing the waist to be both
flexible and strong is one of the salient features of Tai Chi. In order for the waist to
move freely, the spine must be straight and the eye gaze level. It is important to avoid
leaning when pushing forwards or sitting back.
Grandmaster Fu also warned about rising up and down. In order to train the legs properly
and to sink the chi, the practitioner must be mindful of maintaining the same height. If
you are older or have an injury, choose a comfortable height.
Authentic Yang family Tai Chi is different from modified versions of Tai Chi, such as,
Beijing 24 form. All modified versions rock the body weight back from one leg to another.
This breaks the jin or continuous energy of the form. In the traditional form, the weight
is maintained in the turning leg to ensure continuity. This also strengthens the legs,
especially the joints.
Grandmaster Fu talked about the importance of sinking the chi
down to the Dan Tian. If your movements are correct, natural and relaxed, the chi and
breath will automatically sink to the body centre. Your breathing becomes deep, while the
upper body becomes relaxed and soft.
On the subject of practice, Grandmaster Fu stressed that class is only for learning; home
is where your practice begins. Grandmaster Fu said, "You need to practise every day
if you want to develop a strong mind and body."
To conclude, Grandmaster Fu quoted his father, Fu Zhong Wen's advice on learning and
practice. These three qualities are important in your Tai Chi training, but they can also
be applied in many areas of life:
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Confidence -
believe in your own ability to learn and to accomplish. Knowing that what you are learning
has been passed down from a documented lineage also instils confidence in your practice.
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Determination -
if you are determined to enjoy the health benefits of Tai Chi, you will achieve the
result. Once you have the determination, you will practise according to the goal you have
set for yourself.
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Diligence -
practise every day. Don't make excuses. This is the way to develop your mind and body.
All students who attended Grandmaster Fu's workshops were
greatly impressed by his energy, his level of relaxation, strength and skill. They were
amazed to learn that Grandmaster Fu is seventy years of age. Training with a great master
of such calibre was a privilege for all present. One could not help but be inspired!
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