Daoism

What is the Qi (氣) in Tai Chi and Qigong and how does it work?
Daoism / Qigong / Tai Chi

What is the Qi (氣) in Tai Chi and Qigong and how does it work?

In the many articles and news items which proliferate in the media about Tai Chi and Qigong and Chinese medicine, the word which crops up again and again is ‘qi’ (氣). Pronounced ‘chee’ and not to be confused with the word ‘chi’ in Tai Chi the concept of ‘qi’ pervades much of Chinese medicine […]

Heidegger’s Hammer: being and mindfulness, trying and not trying
Book Reviews / Daoism / Meditation

Heidegger’s Hammer: being and mindfulness, trying and not trying

I recently read an article that was in essence a summary by the author of his book Trying not to Try (publication date: 3/4/2014). I really enjoyed the article and will be buying the book just as soon as it is published as it has some fascinating insights into Daoist […]

The Daoist Origins of Tàijí Quán (太極拳)
Daoism / Guest Post / Tai Chi

The Daoist Origins of Tàijí Quán (太極拳)

The Daoist Origins of Chinese Martial Arts in Tàijí Quán (太極拳) Manuals published in the West By: Dominic LaRochelle, Ph.D. Laval University, Quebec City. In Chinese martial arts circles, differences of interpretation concerning the origins of the art of Tàijí Quán are not new. In fact, they are at the […]

The Scroll of the Nine Dragon Sons
Daoism / Qigong

The Scroll of the Nine Dragon Sons

The Scroll of the Nine Dragon Sons was painted by Chén Róng (陈容, 1210-1261AD) and depicts nine dragons as they chase each other across the sky. It is a beautiful painting full of energy and mystery. The dragons climb over hills and seem immersed in a mist. They play among clouds, wind, […]

Tai Chi: a movement that satisfies itself!
Daoism / Tai Chi

Tai Chi: a movement that satisfies itself!

The latest issue of Yangshang arrived in my inbox the other day and the first article I read was on the subject of ‘Zhuangzhi on Freedom’, a discussion by Livia Kohn on this ancient Daoist classic text. While reading it I was especially struck by one of the interpretations of […]