David-Dorian Ross

Welcome to the guan, or tai chi studio. Start your journey on the path of mastery by discovering how taijiquan is a complex system that weaves together martial artistry, the pursuit of health and longevity, and the philosophy of harmony and balance. Then, practice several stances that you will use throughout the Yang-style 40-movement form, and learn your first tai chi principle.

Known for its grappling, flipping, and throwing techniques, judo is best summed up by a Japanese phrase translating to "maximum efficiency, minimum effort." After a review of the history and introductory concepts of judo, Sensei Fukuda takes you through a series of exercises and drills. Master Ross returns to offer additional insight.

Watch Mr. Ross with the tai chi straight sword, moving in tai chi's circles and spirals that are natural to the body. Your body has five natural curves, or bows, that increase the power of your movements. Learn relaxed postures that emphasize these gentle curves, and maintain your awareness of the body bows as you learn box both ears and separate the left foot.

Begin with a new stepping practice to get you focused on footwork. To have the proper balance and leverage, it's important to know which foot is weighted, or full, and which is empty-and to shift your weight smoothly and completely. Apply this new insight to the next form movements: fair lady works at the shuttles and part the horse's mane.

Tai chi becomes easy when you let go of mental and physical resistance and tension. By sinking the shoulders and relaxing the elbows, you improve your flow. Incorporate pivots to adjust your steps and alignment, and discover when the hands move in different rhythms. Learn the move cloud hands.

Tai chi is both moving meditation and movable meditation-you can perform the form anywhere, and you carry the mental aspects with you in every situation. This exemplifies the principle of tranquility within movement, and movement within tranquility. Continue your study of the form with turn and pat the foot and ride the tiger.

Intricate "forms" are a hallmark of kung fu practice, which allow you to refine your physical skills and control. As you continue your study of white crane kung fu, Coach Chang breaks down the essential moves of a routine. He then turns to some exercises to help you increase your mental focus and discipline.

Movements in tai chi are graceful, balanced, and unhurried, and this is accomplished through mindful awareness of your body, thoughts, and emotions. Mindfulness is an essential element of tai chi and a vital tool for a harmonious life. Use this awareness as you learn the next two movements of the form: single whip and step up and raise hands.

Like the karate kata, the tae kwon do forms - or "poomse" - are the key to practicing technique. After Master Ross introduces these patterns of attack and defense, Grandmaster Wheaton leads you through the first poomse, Chun-ji, which you can then try yourself.

Discover how to integrate the outlook and practice of tai chi into your work life. Study a routine that you can do in your office or cubicle, as it requires only one step in each direction. Then, learn Looking for the Needle at the Bottom of the Sea.