108-form Wu family tai chi chuan

108-form Wu family Tai Chi Chuan is a traditional Chinese martial arts form that is widely practiced for its health benefits, including stress reduction, improved circulation, balance, and general physical fitness. This form of Tai Chi Chuan is one of the major styles recognized within the Tai Chi Chuan spectrum, having been developed by the Wu family starting in the late 19th century. The 108 movements of this form are characterized by soft, flowing motions that are performed in a slow, focused manner.

History

The 108-form Wu family Tai Chi Chuan has its roots in the martial arts traditions of China, evolving from the teachings of Yang Luchan, who learned Tai Chi from the Chen family, the creators of the original Tai Chi form. Wu Quanyou, a student of Yang Luchan and Yang Banhou, his son, modified the Yang style to create a softer version that emphasized smaller movements and a higher stance. This adaptation was further refined by his son, Wu Jianquan, who is credited with popularizing the style in Beijing and beyond, leading to its recognition as one of the five major Tai Chi Chuan styles.

Principles

The 108-form Wu family Tai Chi Chuan emphasizes several core principles that are integral to its practice:

• Smooth, continuous movements: Each movement flows into the next without pause, ensuring a constant, unbroken flow of energy throughout the body.
• Integration of mind and body: Practitioners focus on mental calmness and clarity, coordinating their movements with their breath and intention.
• Softness and relaxation: Despite being a martial art, the form stresses the importance of softness and yielding over brute force.
• Balance and stability: The high stances and careful, deliberate movements enhance balance and physical stability.

Techniques

The 108 movements of this form are divided into sections, each with its own set of techniques that build upon each other. These include hand forms, stepping methods, and postures that are designed to improve flexibility, strength, and internal energy flow. Some of the key movements include:

• Grasp Sparrow's Tail: A series of movements that incorporate warding off, rolling back, pressing, and pushing.
• Single Whip: A signature Tai Chi movement that involves a distinctive hand gesture and stance, symbolizing the control of energy.
• Cloud Hands: A flowing sequence that emphasizes the shifting of weight and rotation of the body.

Health Benefits

Practicing the 108-form Wu family Tai Chi Chuan offers numerous health benefits. It is particularly noted for its ability to reduce stress and anxiety, improve cardiovascular health, enhance flexibility and balance, and strengthen the muscles of the legs and core. Additionally, its meditative aspects can lead to improved mental and emotional well-being.

Practice

To practice the 108-form Wu family Tai Chi Chuan, one should begin with learning the basic stances and movements from a qualified instructor. It is important to focus on the principles of smooth, continuous motion, integration of mind and body, and relaxation. As proficiency increases, practitioners can explore the deeper aspects of the form, including its martial applications and the cultivation of Qi (vital energy).

See Also

• Tai Chi Chuan
• Chinese martial arts
• Qi
• Martial arts