Tai Chi Secrets of the Ancient Masters: Selected Readings from the Masters (Tai Chi Treasures) (Paperback)

~ (Author)
Key Phrases: chang quan, thirteen postures, soft whip, Spirit of Vitality, Lower Dan Tian, Understanding Jin (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

Share the Secrets of Great Tai Chi!

Over the course of several centuries the Ancient Masters practiced and pondered the mystery and purpose of Tai Chi Chuan, preserving their profound insights in songs and poems. Shrouded in secrecy, these songs and poems were closely guarded jewels and have only been revealed to the public this century.

Now, you can reap the benefits of centuries of wisdom and practical experience to deepen and refine your Tai Chi Chuan. Discover ways to reach the essence of your Form and take your Push Hands (and sparring!) to higher levels, for not only has Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming translated these poems from the original Chinese, he has written additional commentaries to make them more accessible to contemporary minds. Insights from the Masters of Tai Chi Chuan is an invaluable resource for students who seek true understanding of their art.

* Can be used with any style of Tai Chi Chuan.
* Sound, practical advice for any Martial Art.
* Includes commentaries, translation, and original Chinese.
* Key points for incorporating the teachings into your practice.
* Poems from Chang San-Feng and other great Masters!

About the Author

Yang, Jwing-Ming Ph.D., is a renowned author and teacher of Chinese martial arts and Qigong. Born in Taiwan, he has trained and taught Taijiquan, Qigong and Chinese martial arts for over forty-five years. He is the author of over thirty books, and was elected by Inside Kung Fu magazine as one of the 10 people who has "made the greatest impact on martial arts in the past 100 years." Dr. Yang lives in Northern California.

Product Details

• Paperback: 128 pages
• Publisher: YMAA Publication Center (May 25, 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 188696971X
• ISBN-13: 978-1886969711
• Product Dimensions: 7.2 x 4.2 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 4.2 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #903,704 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

10 of 12 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent Book for the serious tai chi player, June 8, 2000

By A Customer

I found this book to be very helpful in my study of tai chi. The words of the masters translated by the author are usefull to all levels of tai chi players. It is especially usefull to those seeking to reach a higher level of push hands.I really appreciate the effort by Jwing Ming to translate so many text and make them available to the martial artist who only speak english.

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Tiny book, but deep, May 7, 2007

By	E. C. Shenk (FL United States) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

This book was recommended by a friend who's studied Tai Chi longer than me. I wasn't disappointed when I got it, although the size surprised me. The material is excellent, but you can't read it fast. Read it at Tai Chi speed. :0)

The thing that struck me as the most memorable was: Silently learn, then ponder; gradually you will get what your heart desires. Good thing to apply in most of life's teachings.

Study well!

0 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The real thing, October 2, 2008

By	Path To Wisdom (USA) - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

Bought this. I am lucky I can still read Chinese, and now Yahoo has a Chinese translation webpage in yahoo hk.

The Chinese writing looks genuine, as the method of some of the writing is the "Old School" type. Recognize some phrases from Tung (Dong) family's red manual, and another manual.

The manual here describes "make the drum full" from Chi.
My sifu from Honan Shaolin demonstrated chi in his arms. He filled it and I cannot find his pulse on his wrist. That's what is meant by "make the drum full" from Chi.
I still cannot do that. I am lazy, I guess that's it.

When that phrase "make the drum full" was written, there was no plastic or balloons to describe the pressure and filling analogy. I believe the translation and understanding by Dr. Yang here was not up to par.