Tai Chi Glossary
Acupoint (穴位)
Specific points on the body where Qi is accessible, often used in acupuncture, acupressure, and influencing energy flow in Qigong and Tai Chi practice.
Alchemy, Internal (内丹术)
A Taoist practice involving meditation, breath control, and visualization to refine the "Three Treasures" (Jing, Qi, Shen) within the body, forming the philosophical and practical basis of Neigong.
An (按)
Press or push downward energy; one of the eight basic energies (Ba Fa). A pressing motion that uses the whole body's coordinated force.
Application (用)
The practical martial application of Tai Chi movements for self-defense and combat situations.
Axe (斧 Fu)
One of the traditional “Eighteen Weapons,” a heavy chopping weapon symbolizing power and decisiveness. Its usage in martial arts emphasizes strong, committed attacks and stability.
Ba Chu (八触)
The “Eight Touches” or unusual sensory experiences that may arise during deep Qigong meditation, including sensations of itching, lightness, heaviness, cold, heat, tingling, slipping, and sinking.
Ba Fa (八法)
The eight basic energies or techniques of Tai Chi: Peng (Ward-off), Lu (Roll-back), Ji (Press), An (Push), Cai (Pluck), Lie (Split), Zhou (Elbow), Kao (Shoulder).
Baduanjin (八段锦)
A traditional Chinese health qigong with over 800 years of history. Its name, meaning "Eight Brocades," comes from the smooth, flowing movements resembling fine silk. It regulates the body's qi and blood.
Bagua Zhang (八卦掌)
"Eight Trigrams Palm," one of the three major Internal Martial Arts. Characterized by constant circular walking, palm changes, and spiraling movements based on the I Ching's Bagua symbols.
Baguazhang Circle Walking (八卦掌走圈)
The foundational practice of Baguazhang, involving walking continuously in a circle while maintaining specific postures. This trains dynamic balance and leg strength.
Bai He Liang Chi (白鹤亮翅)
“White Crane Spreads Its Wings.” A graceful posture resembling a crane displaying its wings. It involves one hand rising to protect the forehead while the other presses down.
Bai Hui (百会)
The "Hundred Convergences" acupoint located at the crown of the head. In Tai Chi, practitioners maintain a light, upward intention at this point to align the spine and raise the spirit.
Balance (平衡)
The state of equilibrium between yin and yang, both physically in posture and energetically in movement.
Bao Quan Li (抱拳礼)
The traditional martial arts salute (right fist against left palm), symbolizing respect, humility, and the unity of wen (civil) and wu (martial) virtues.
Bodhidharma (达摩)
The semi-legendary Buddhist monk credited with transmitting Chan (Zen) Buddhism to China and founding the physical training at Shaolin Temple.
Bow Stance (弓步)
A fundamental martial arts stance where one leg is bent forward (as a bow) and the other is straightened behind, providing stability and power.
Breath Control (调息)
The regulation and coordination of breathing with movement in Tai Chi practice.
Broadsword (刀 Dao)
A single-edged, curved saber, one of the most common weapons in Chinese martial arts. Known for its chopping and slashing techniques.
Bruce Lee (李小龙)
Legendary martial artist and founder of Jeet Kune Do. He revolutionized the global perception of Chinese martial arts, emphasizing practicality, speed, and efficiency.
Cai (採)
Plucking or picking energy; one of the eight energies involving a downward pulling motion.
Central Equilibrium (中定)
The central balanced state from which all movements originate and return; maintaining the center of gravity. (See also: Zhong Ding)
Chai Shou (拆手)
“Disassembling Hands.” The process of breaking down the martial applications (Yong Fa) embedded within each movement of the Tai Chi form for practical study.
Chan Si Jing (缠丝劲)
“Silk Reeling Energy.” A fundamental power generation method in Chen-style Tai Chi, involving continuous spiraling or coiling action of the torso and limbs.
Chang San-feng (张三丰)
The legendary Taoist monk often credited in folklore with the creation of Tai Chi Chuan on Wudang Mountain.
Chen Style (陈式)
The oldest form of Tai Chi Chuan, characterized by alternating fast and slow movements, along with bursts of power (Fa Jin) and Silk Reeling.
Chen Xiaowang (陈小旺)
A 19th-generation lineage holder of Chen-style Tai Chi Chuan. He is a modern-day grandmaster renowned for standardizing the Chen-style curriculum (including the 19-form and 38-form) and spreading the art globally.
Chen-style Lao Jia (陈式老架)
“Chen-style Old Frame.” The traditional form of Chen-style Tai Chi, preserved and passed down through generations in Chenjiagou village.
Chen-style Xin Jia (陈式新架)
“Chen-style New Frame.” Characterized by lower stances, more pronounced silk reeling energy, and a greater range of motion compared to the Old Frame.
Chi Sao (黐手)
“Sticking Hands.” A core sensitivity training drill from Wing Chun Kung Fu designed to develop reflexes and tactile sensitivity.
Classics (经)
The foundational texts of Tai Chi Chuan, such as the "Tai Chi Chuan Classics" attributed to masters like Zhang Sanfeng and Wang Zongyue.
Cloud Hands (云手)
One of the most fundamental moving exercises in Tai Chi. The hands move in gentle, continuous circles while shifting weight, training coordination and energy flow.
Cotton Fist (绵拳)
A descriptive term for Tai Chi's external softness, where movements appear gentle like cotton, yet conceal internal strength (Iron wrapped in cotton).
Cun Xiang (存想)
“Visualization.” A method in Qigong where one uses the mind's eye to visualize specific images or the flow of Qi to guide its movement.
Da Zhou Tian (大周天)
“Grand Heavenly Cycle.” An advanced stage of energy circulation where Qi is guided through the entire meridian network of the twelve primary channels.
Dagger / Short Sword (匕首 Bishou)
A short, double-edged thrusting weapon used for close-quarters combat. Techniques are quick, hidden, and direct.
Dan Tian (丹田)
Literally "Cinnabar Field". The energy center located below the navel, considered the reservoir of Qi in the body and the physical center of gravity.
Dantian Rotation (丹田运转)
An advanced Neigong concept involving the conscious leading of Qi to rotate in the lower Dantian to generate and circulate internal energy.
Dao Lu (套路)
The Chinese term for “form” or “set.” A pre-arranged sequence of martial techniques performed in a continuous flow.
Di (提)
“Lifting Up.” A common fault of raising the shoulders or holding the body in a tense, upward manner, preventing proper sinking.
Ding (顶)
“Protruding” or “Resisting.” A fault referring to any part of the body (like chin or chest) sticking out or using stiff, opposing force.
Ding Jing (顶劲)
Upright and suspended energy; maintaining lightness at the crown of the head (Bai Hui point) for proper alignment.
Ding, Pian, Kao, Liu (顶偏丢抗)
The “Four Major Faults” in Push Hands: Resisting, Leaning, Letting Go (losing contact), and Opposing.
Ditang Quan (地趟拳)
“Ground Tumbling Boxing.” A style specializing in falls, tumbles, leg sweeps, and low-to-the-ground fighting techniques.
Double-weighted (双重)
A common error where weight distribution is stuck equally on both feet, limiting mobility and responsiveness.
Dantian Breathing (丹田呼吸)
Also known as "Abdominal Breathing." A deep breathing technique where the diaphragm engages, causing the lower abdomen (Dan Tian) to expand on inhalation and contract on exhalation. It lowers the center of gravity and massages internal organs.
Dian Xue (点穴 / Dim Mak)
Commonly known in the West as "Dim Mak" or "Death Touch." It refers to striking specific acupoints (cavities) on the meridians to disrupt the flow of Qi, cause paralysis, or inflict internal injury. It requires precise knowledge of anatomy and timing.
Dong Zhi (冬至)
The Winter Solstice. In Taoist and Tai Chi philosophy, this is the peak of Yin energy. However, it is also the time when "One Yang is Born" (一阳生), marking the return of light and life, making it a significant time for Qigong cultivation.
Eight Extremes (八极拳 Baji Quan)
A powerful and explosive martial art known for its short-range, direct, and devastating elbow, shoulder, and hip strikes.
Eight Gates (八门)
Another term for the eight basic energies (Ba Fa), representing the eight directions of energy emission.
Eighteen Martial Arts (十八般武艺)
A traditional term referring to proficiency with the "Eighteen Kinds of Weapons" and comprehensive martial skills.
Emphasis, Substantial and Insubstantial (虚实分明)
Differentiation between weight-bearing (substantial) and non-weight-bearing (insubstantial) legs, enabling fluid movement.
Energy Flow (气行)
The movement of Qi through the body's meridians during Tai Chi practice.
Er Lu (二路)
“Second Routine.” In Chen-style, typically refers to Cannon Fist, which is faster and includes more explosive Fa Jin.
External Martial Arts (外家拳)
Martial arts that traditionally focus on training the physical body for strength, speed, and agility (e.g., Shaolin Kung Fu), often contrasted with Internal Martial Arts.
Fa Jin (发劲)
Issuing or emitting power; the explosive release of accumulated energy for martial applications.
Fa Song (放松)
To “release and loosen.” The active process of finding and letting go of tension, more precise than the general term “Song.”
Fajin Method (发劲方法)
The mechanical and energetic method of issuing explosive power involving coordinated rooting, twisting, and release.
Falling and Tumbling (跌扑翻滚)
Diepu Fangun; techniques including breakfalls and rolls, essential for safety and ground defense.
Fang Song Gong (放松功)
“Relaxation Exercises.” Qigong exercises focused specifically on achieving deep, conscious relaxation.
Feng Shui (风水)
The ancient art of environmental placement aimed at harmonizing individuals with surrounding Qi. It shares Yin-Yang and Five Element theories with Tai Chi.
Five Elements (五行)
Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water; the five phases of transformation corresponding to directions and energies.
Five Steps (五步)
The five basic footwork patterns: Advance, Retreat, Gaze Left, Look Right, and Central Equilibrium.
Flying Kicks (腾空腿法)
Techniques involving jumps and kicks in mid-air, showcasing athleticism and balance.
Form (套路)
A predetermined sequence of movements practiced as a continuous flow, representing the essence of Tai Chi.
Foundation (根基)
The root or base established through proper stance, alignment, and connection to the ground.
Gao Tai (高探马)
“High Pat on Horse.” A posture where one hand extends forward as if patting a horse, while the other draws back.
Ge (割)
“Cutting” or “Slicing” energy. A subtle application using the edge of the hand or weapon to sever force.
Golden Bell Cover (金钟罩)
A legendary form of hard Qigong aimed at making the body highly resistant to blows.
Golden Rooster (金鸡独立)
A posture named "Golden Rooster Stands on One Leg," emphasizing balance and single-leg stability.
Gongfu (功夫)
Often romanized as “Kung Fu.” Refers to skill achieved through time and dedicated practice, not limited to martial arts.
Grasp Sparrow's Tail (揽雀尾)
A fundamental sequence containing four primary energies: Peng, Lu, Ji, and An.
Gu Qi (谷气)
“Grain Qi.” The Qi derived from the digestion of food and water.
Guo (过)
“Overreaching.” The fault of extending a movement beyond one’s natural balance, causing loss of center.
Han Xiong Ba Bei (含胸拔背)
“Contain the Chest, Pluck Up the Back.” A key structural requirement to allow the upper back to expand and facilitate deep breathing.
Hand Form (手式)
The specific positioning and movement of hands in Tai Chi, such as "Fair Lady's Hand."
Health Preservation (养生)
Focusing on maintaining health, preventing illness, and prolonging life through regulating the body and mind.
Hook Sword (钩 Gou)
An exotic weapon with a curved tip used for hooking, trapping, and slashing.
Horse Stance (马步 Ma Bu)
The fundamental “horse-riding stance” used to develop immense leg strength and root.
Hui Yin (会阴)
The "Meeting of Yin" acupoint located at the perineum. In Tai Chi, this point is slightly lifted to seal the Qi and connect the Ren and Du meridians.
Hun Yuan (混元)
Primordial unity; integrated whole-body movement where all parts coordinate seamlessly.
Hard Qigong (硬气功)
A type of Qigong training focused on strengthening the physical body to withstand heavy blows and protect internal organs. Techniques often involve conditioning the skin, muscles, and bones (e.g., Iron Shirt), contrasting with the "soft" internal cultivation of Tai Chi.
I Ching (易经)
The "Book of Changes." Its symbols and philosophy of change deeply influence the theory of Tai Chi and Bagua.
Intention (意)
Yi; using mental focus to lead energy (Qi) and movement rather than relying on muscular force.
Internal Martial Arts (内家拳)
Styles that emphasize the cultivation of internal energy (qi), intention (yi), and spirit (shen) over raw physical strength.
Iron Body (铁身)
Conditioning methods that toughen the bones, skin, and muscles through repetitive striking and training.
Jet Kune Do (截拳道)
“The Way of the Intercepting Fist.” The hybrid martial philosophy founded by Bruce Lee emphasizing adaptability.
Ji (擠)
Squeezing or pressing energy; one of the eight energies involving forward pressing with both hands.
Jian (剑)
The double-edged straight sword, known as the "Gentleman of All Weapons," emphasizing fluidity and precision.
Jiben Gong (基本功)
“Basic Skills/Fundamentals.” The core exercises that form the building blocks of martial arts.
Jie Jing (接劲)
“Receiving Energy.” The skill of safely connecting with an opponent’s incoming force without collision.
Jin Gang Dao Dui (金刚捣碓)
“Buddha’s Warrior Attendant Pounds Mortar.” A powerful posture from Chen-style Tai Chi representing the consolidation of energy.
Jing (劲)
Internal power or refined force, distinct from crude muscular strength (Li).
Jing (精)
“Essence.” The fundamental physical substrate and inherited vitality stored in the kidneys.
Jing (静)
“Stillness.” A state of profound mental and physical calm achieved in meditation.
Jingluo (经络)
The system of channels or meridians in Traditional Chinese Medicine through which Qi and blood circulate.
Kao (靠)
Shoulder stroke energy; one of the eight energies using the shoulder or back to issue power.
Kou Bu (扣步)
“Inward-Stepping Step.” A footwork technique where the toes are turned inward, used for turning or trapping.
Kua (胯)
The hip or inguinal region; crucial for connecting upper and lower body and facilitating weight transfer.
Kunlun (昆仑)
A mythical mountain in Chinese cosmology, often regarded as a source of spiritual energy.
Lan Que Wei (揽雀尾)
Chinese name for “Grasp the Sparrow’s Tail,” the core sequence encompassing Peng, Lu, Ji, and An.
Lao Gong (劳宫)
An important acupoint (Pericardium 8) located in the center of the palm, used for emitting and receiving Qi.
Laojia Yi Lu (老架一路)
“Chen-style Old Frame First Routine.” The most widely practiced traditional Chen form.
Li (离)
“Separating.” A fault of disconnected movement where limbs operate independently from the torso.
Lie (挒)
Splitting or rending energy; one of the eight energies involving a tearing or separating force.
Liu Zi Jue (六字诀)
The "Six Healing Sounds." A traditional Qigong exercise involving the pronunciation of six specific sounds (Xu, He, Hu, Si, Chui, Xi) coordinated with breath and movement to regulate and heal the five internal organs and the San Jiao.
Luo Pan (罗盘)
The Chinese Geomantic Compass used in Feng Shui. It contains concentric rings of data based on the I Ching, Bagua, and celestial stems/branches used to determine the energetic quality of directions and locations.
Lightness Skill (轻功 Qing Gong)
Training methods aimed at enhancing agility, balance, and the ability to move swiftly.
Listening Jing (听劲)
The sensitivity developed through Push Hands to "listen" to or feel an opponent's force and root.
Lower Dan Tian (下丹田)
The primary energy center located three finger-widths below the navel.
Lu (捋)
Rolling back or yielding energy; one of the eight energies involving a redirecting, circular motion.
Martial Application (武术用法)
The practical fighting techniques embedded within Tai Chi's seemingly gentle movements.
Martial Virtue (武德)
The ethical code in Chinese martial arts, encompassing respect, humility, and righteousness.
Meditation in Motion (动中禅)
Description of Tai Chi as a moving meditation that cultivates mindfulness and inner peace.
Meridian (经脉)
The main pathways in the Jingluo system through which Qi circulates.
Mian Quan (绵拳)
“Cotton Fist.” Another name for Tai Chi, emphasizing soft, continuous external movement concealing internal strength.
Microcosmic Orbit (小周天)
Xiao Zhou Tian; an internal energy cultivation practice where Qi is circulated in a loop up the spine and down the front of the body.
Mind-body Exercise (身心锻炼)
Practices like Tai Chi and Qigong that emphasize the connection between mental intention and physical movement.
Ming Men (命门)
The "Gate of Life" acupoint on the lower back. Opening this point is essential for connecting the body and generating kidney power.
Monkey Style (猴拳)
An animal style mimicking a monkey—agile, erratic, and deceptive.
Moving Meditation (行禅)
Highlighting Tai Chi as a meditative practice performed through slow, mindful movement.
Nei Wai Jia He Yi (内外家合一)
“Unity of Internal and External Schools.” Combining internal cultivation with external expression of power.
Neigong (内功)
Internal skill cultivation; exercises that develop Qi, Jing, and Shen through breath and intention.
Nan Quan Bei Tui (南拳北腿)
"Southern Fists, Northern Legs." A traditional proverb summarizing Chinese martial arts styles: Northern styles generally emphasize high kicks and wide stances, while Southern styles (Nanquan) focus on intricate hand techniques and stable, low stances.
Neijin (内劲)
Internal strength or power coming from alignment, relaxation, and coordinated whole-body movement.
Neutralizing (化劲)
The skill of receiving an incoming force and redirecting or dissolving it into emptiness.
Nunchaku (双节棍)
A weapon consisting of two sticks connected by a chain. Popularized by Bruce Lee, requiring great skill to wield.
Opening and Closing (开合)
The fundamental rhythm of expansion and contraction in Tai Chi movements and breathing.
Part the Wild Horse’s Mane (野马分鬃)
A repeated sequence involving a smooth step and separating hands, training forward energy and diagonal expansion.
Peng (掤)
The first of the eight energies (Ba Fa). It represents outward expanding energy, often translated as "Ward Off".
Peng Jing (掤劲)
Internal Ward-off Structure. The omnipresent, expansive quality that must exist in every Tai Chi movement to prevent collapse.
Posture (架势)
The specific bodily alignment and structure in each Tai Chi movement.
Praying Mantis Style (螳螂拳)
A style characterized by quick, grabbing hooks and agile footwork, mimicking the insect.
Proprioception (本体感觉)
The body's sense of its own position and motion. Tai Chi training greatly enhances this awareness.
Push Hands (推手)
A two-person training exercise (Tui Shou) to develop sensitivity, balance, and martial application skills.
Pictographic Boxing (象形拳)
Xiang Xing Quan; a category of martial arts that mimics the movements, spirit, and fighting strategies of animals (e.g., Monkey, Eagle, Snake, Praying Mantis). While "Panda Style" is popularized by movies, traditional animal styles are rigorous combat systems.
Qi (气)
Vital life force or energy flow. Cultivating and guiding Qi is essential for both martial power and health.
Qi Chen Dan Tian (气沉丹田)
“Sink the Qi to the Dantian.” Using relaxed breathing and intention to guide energy downward for stability.
Qi Gan (气感)
“Qi Sensation.” The subjective feeling of Qi moving in the body (warmth, tingling, flow).
Qi Hai (气海)
The "Sea of Qi," another term for the Lower Dan Tian.
Qi Jue (七诀)
The “Seven Secrets” or key poetic formulas that encapsulate essential technical principles.
Qian Kun (乾坤)
The first two trigrams in I Ching, representing Heaven and Earth, foundational to internal arts cosmology.
Qigong (气功)
A system of coordinated posture, breathing, and meditation used for health, spirituality, and martial training.
Qin Na (擒拿)
“Seize and Control.” The comprehensive art of joint locks and pressure point attacks to subdue an opponent.
Relaxation (松)
Song; the state of releasing unnecessary tension while maintaining structure.
Rooting (扎根)
The ability to connect firmly with the ground, creating stability and facilitating energy transfer.
Rou (揉)
“Kneading” energy. A soft, circular force applied in close contact.
Ru Jing (入静)
“Entering Stillness.” The process of settling the mind into deep tranquility.
San Bao (三宝)
The Three Treasures: Jing (Essence), Qi (Energy), and Shen (Spirit).
San Ti Shi (三体式)
“Three-Body Posture.” The foundational standing stance of Xingyiquan, often cross-trained by Tai Chi practitioners.
Seventeen Old Postures (十七势)
An early set of martial movements practiced by Chen Wangting, a precursor to modern Tai Chi.
Shaolin Staff (少林棍)
The quintessential weapon of Shaolin, emphasizing fluidity and versatility.
Shaolin Temple (少林寺)
The cradle of Shaolin Kung Fu, famous for its monk-soldiers and external martial arts tradition.
Shen (神)
Spirit or vitality; the radiant quality of presence in advanced practice.
Shi San Shi (十三势)
“Thirteen Kinetic Postures.” Another term for the foundational Thirteen Postures.
Shuang Feng Guan Er (双峰贯耳)
“Strike Opponent’s Ears with Both Fists.” A move demonstrating whole-body rotation to power a double attack.
Si Zheng Shou (四正手)
“Four Orthodox Hands.” The primary push hands drill focusing on Peng, Lu, Ji, and An.
Silk Reeling (缠丝劲)
Method of movement involving continuous spiraling and twisting to generate power (see Chan Si Jing).
Single Whip (单鞭)
A signature posture with one hand forming a “beak” and the other pushing outward, embodying expansion.
Sinking (沉)
The quality of letting energy and weight settle downward, creating stability.
Six Harmonies (六合)
The unification of the body: 3 External (Shoulder/Hip, Elbow/Knee, Hand/Foot) and 3 Internal (Mind/Intent, Intent/Qi, Qi/Power).
Small Frame (小架)
A compact form characteristic of Wu Style and some Chen lineages, focusing on internal movement.
Snake Style (蛇拳)
An animal style focusing on relaxed, whip-like strikes and evasion.
Softness Overcoming Hardness (以柔克刚)
The principle of using yielding and flexibility to defeat brute force.
Song (松)
Relaxation; released tension while maintaining structure and alertness.
Song Kua (松胯)
“Relax/Sink the Kua.” Releasing tension in the hip joints to connect the upper and lower body.
Southern Fist (南拳)
Martial arts from Southern China characterized by stable, low stances and powerful hand techniques.
Spear (枪 Qiang)
“King of All Weapons.” A long weapon requiring flexibility and spiraling power.
Spirit, Intent, and Body (神意形)
The triad of high-level practice: Spirit leads, Intention commands, and Body follows.
Staff / Cudgel (棍 Gun)
“Ancestor of All Weapons.” A long, blunt weapon fundamental to many systems.
Standing Meditation (站桩)
Zhan Zhuang; stationary postures held to develop structure and internal energy.
Step Back and Repulse the Monkey (倒卷肱)
A classic retreating sequence using circular hand movements to deflect an advancing opponent.
Sun Style (孙式)
Founded by Sun Lutang, combining Tai Chi, Xingyi, and Bagua; known for agile steps.
Tai (塌)
“Collapsing.” A fault of slouching or having a limp posture, destroying structure.
Tai Chi Ball (太极球)
A training tool used to develop spiraling power and whole-body coordination.
Tai Chi Chuan (太极拳)
Internal Chinese martial art practiced for defense, health, and meditation.
Tai Chi Clothing (太极服装)
Traditional loose-fitting attire allowing unrestricted movement and airflow.
Tai Chi Fan (太极扇)
Practice combining Tai Chi principles with a fan, blending martial application with performance.
Tai Chi Sphere (太极球)
Concept of moving with a rounded, spherical energy; also refers to the physical training ball.
Tai Chi Sword (太极剑)
Practice of swordsmanship (Jian) based on Tai Chi principles of fluidity and adhesion.
Tai Chi Symbol (太极图)
The Taijitu, representing the interlocking and dynamic balance of Yin and Yang.
Taijiquan Lun (太极拳论)
The "Theory of Tai Chi Chuan," a seminal classical text attributed to Wang Zongyue.
Thirteen Postures (十三势)
The core technical framework consisting of the Eight Gates (hands) and Five Steps (feet).
Three Harmonizations (三合)
Coordination of Hand/Foot, Elbow/Knee, and Shoulder/Hip.
Three Rings (三圈)
Body alignment concept where arms and legs form rounded shapes to promote structure.
Three Treasures (三宝)
Jing, Qi, and Shen; the three essential foundations of life in Taoism and TCM.
Ti Xi Bu (提膝步)
“Knee-Lifting Step.” A high stepping method used for balance or avoiding obstacles.
Tian Ren He Yi (天人合一)
“Heaven and Man United as One.” The ideal state of harmony between humans and nature.
Tiao Shen (调身)
“Posture Regulation.” Adjusting the body into the correct structure for practice.
Tiao Xi (调息)
“Breath Regulation.” Adjusting breathing to be deep, slow, and even.
Tiger Style (虎拳)
An animal style embodying strength and ferocity with powerful clawing strikes.
Ting Jing (听劲)
“Listening Energy.” The sensitivity to feel an opponent's force and intent through contact.
Tui Na (推拿)
Chinese therapeutic massage and bodywork; also refers to "push and grasp" in martial context.
Tui Shou (推手)
Chinese term for Push Hands, the sensitivity training exercise.
Tai Chi Walking (太极步)
The fundamental stepping method in Tai Chi, also known as "Cat Walking." It emphasizes slow, controlled weight transfer, maintaining balance on one leg before placing the other, and rolling from heel to toe. It is widely practiced for balance improvement and leg strength.
Tongbei Quan (通背拳)
"Through-the-Back Fist." An internal-external martial art known for its long-range, swinging strikes that generate power through the spine and shoulders, often described as a "whip-like" force.
Understanding Jing (懂劲)
Mastery stage beyond Listening Jing, comprehending the opponent's force and nature.
Upright Posture (中正)
Maintaining vertical alignment from crown to perineum.
Vitality (活力)
The enhanced life energy and vigor cultivated through practice.
Wang Zongyue (王宗岳)
Pivotal historical figure credited with writing the "Tai Chi Chuan Classics."
Ward Off (掤)
English translation for Peng, the expansive, supporting energy.
Wave Hands Like Clouds (云手)
Descriptive name for the “Cloud Hands” movement.
White Eyebrow Style (白眉拳)
Baimei Quan; a Southern style known for explosive short-range power.
Whole-body Power (整劲)
Integrated force generated by coordinating all body parts.
Wing Chun (咏春拳)
Efficient Southern style famous for centerline theory and close-range combat.
Wu Style (吴式 - Wu Quanyou)
Founded by Wu Quanyou. Characterized by a compact frame, subtle movements, and internalization.
Wu Style (武式 - Wu Yuxiang)
Founded by Wu Yuxiang. Known for high stances, strict internal requirements, and scholarly theory.
Wu Wei (无为)
“Effortless Action.” A Taoist principle of acting naturally without forcing.
Wu Xin (五心)
“Five Centers.” The two palms, two soles, and chest center (or crown), used in energy work.
Wuji Zhuang (无极桩)
The "Wuji Posture" or Standing Meditation. A neutral stance with feet parallel and body relaxed, representing the state of emptiness before movement (Tai Chi) begins. It is the most fundamental practice for structural alignment and calming the mind.
Wu Yi Tong Yuan (武医同源)
“Martial Arts and Medicine Share the Same Origin.” The interconnection between martial arts and TCM.
Wudang (武当)
Sacred mountain and legendary birthplace of Internal Martial Arts.
Wuji (无极)
“Ultimate Nothingness.” The state before differentiation (Tai Chi) begins.
Xiang Huo (相火)
“Ministerial Fire.” Physiological fire in TCM necessary for metabolism.
Xiao Zhou Tian (小周天)
“Small Heavenly Cycle” (Microcosmic Orbit). Circulation of Qi along the Ren and Du channels.
Xie Bu (歇步)
“Resting Stance.” A low, cross-legged sitting posture used for transition and balance.
Xin (心)
Heart-mind; the emotional and mental faculties guiding intention.
Xingyi (形意)
“Form-Intention Fist.” Internal art known for linear, aggressive movements and Five Element theory.
Xu Ling Ding Jing (虚灵顶劲)
“Empty, Lively, Topping Energy.” Proper head alignment with the crown suspended.
Yang Luchan (杨露禅)
Founder of Yang-style Tai Chi, who popularized the art in Beijing.
Yang Style (杨式)
The most popular style, known for slow, steady, expansive, and soft movements.
Yang-style 108 Form (杨氏108式)
The traditional long form containing the full range of techniques.
Yang-style 24 Form (杨氏24式)
The Simplified Form created in 1956 for standardizing health practice.
Yao Ji Duan (腰际断)
“Broken at the Waist.” A fault where the waist is stiff, disconnecting upper and lower body.
Yi (意)
Intention; using mental focus to lead Qi.
Yi Jin Jing (易筋经)
“Muscle/Tendon Changing Classic.” Qigong exercises for strengthening tendons and bones.
Yi Lu (一路)
“First Routine.” Usually refers to Chen-style Old Frame First Routine.
Yield (让)
Yielding to incoming force rather than opposing it directly.
Yin and Yang (阴阳)
Concept of complementary opposites (dark/light, soft/hard) interacting.
Ying Qi (营气)
“Nutritive Qi.” Qi flowing in blood vessels nourishing tissues.
Yong Quan (涌泉)
Bubbling Well Point (K1) on the foot sole; the root of the body.
Yu Nu Chuan Suo (玉女穿梭)
“Fair Lady Works Shuttles.” A sequence involving turns and strikes to four corners.
Yuan Qi (元气)
“Original Qi.” Innate, pre-birth energy stored in the kidneys.
Yi Yang Sheng (一阳生)
"One Yang is Born." A concept from the I Ching and Neigong, referring to the initial spark of Yang energy returning at the depth of Yin (stillness), often associated with deep meditation or the Winter Solstice.
Zen (禅)
Meditative aspect of practice cultivating present-moment awareness.
Zhan Zhuang (站桩)
Standing meditation or "post-standing" for developing internal structure.
Zhao Bao Style (赵堡太极拳)
A distinct style with ties to Chen village, known for compact, spiraling movements.
Zhen Jiu (针灸)
Acupuncture and Moxibustion.
Zhen Qi (真气)
“True Qi.” The functional Qi circulating in meridians, formed from Yuan Qi and Gu Qi.
Zhong Ding (中定)
Central equilibrium; the balanced state from which movement originates.
Zhong Qi (中气)
“Central Qi.” Stable energy running along the body’s central axis.
Zhong Wan (中脘)
Middle Dantian acupoint on the abdomen, regulating digestion.
Zhong Zheng (中正)
Upright and Centered; maintaining vertical spine alignment.
Zhou (肘)
Elbow stroke energy; one of the eight energies.
Zhui Shen (坠身)
“Dropping the Body.” Letting weight sink downward into the feet.
Ziran (自然)
“Naturalness.” Taoist concept of spontaneous, unforced movement.
Ziran Men (自然门)
“Natural School.” Martial art emphasizing spontaneity and natural principles.
Zou Huo Ru Mo (走火入魔)
Adverse reactions from incorrect practice (deviation).
Zui Quan (醉拳)
“Drunken Fist.” Style mimicking a drunkard to disguise attacks.