"One of the most sought-after instructors of Qigong." The Omega Institute "Kung Fu artist of the year" Black Belt magazine "Man of the year" Inside Kung Fu magazine "Author of the year"11th World Congress on Qigong and the American Qigong Association Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming shares his considerable knowledge of sword history and practice in Tai Chi Sword Classical Yang Style: ... Read moreThe Complete Form, Qigong, and Applications. The sword sequence presented in this book offers an exciting learning experience for students of Yang-style tai chi chuan. This detailed written and visual instruction is augmented by occasional aphorisms that serve as memory triggers. For instance, in the section devoted to correct sword grips, Yang explains how to discern the right balance of strength and relaxation to achieve when holding a sword. "The sword should be held like an egg, neither broken nor dropped," he writes. "The grip should be alive." Integration of breath with physical movement is a vital component of qigong and all aspects of tai chi practice. With that in mind, Yang includes instructions about when to inhale and exhale for each posture in the sword sequence. For the first, stationary posture, he explains, "Keep your mind calm, and inhale and exhale deeply several times. This is a wuji [infinite smoothness] state." The well-organized structure and clear writing style of this book seamlessly combine, resulting in an accessible and informative study of tai chi swordplay. Dr. Yang also achieves a good balance of history and practical instruction that maintains reader interest. Additional books by Yang are referenced within the text for those who seek more knowledge, and a list of his publications and videos are also provided. The names of each posture in the tai chi sword sequence and a glossary of Chinese terms conclude the book. Tai Chi Sword Classical Yang Style: The Complete Form, Qigong, and Applications offers excellent instruction for students and others who wish to know more about this internal martial art.
Margaret Cullison, This guide offers excellent instruction for those who wish to know more about this internal martial art. Foreword Reviews Show Less