T’ai Chi Classics: Illuminating the Ancient Teachings on the Art of Moving Meditation (Shambhala Classics)

T’ai Chi Classics is a wonderful place to start if you have never tried T’ai Chi but have always wanted to. The book explains a lot about the history of martial arts, especially that of T’ai Chi and integrates the basic facts about the practice. Even if you’re not new to T’ai Chi, this book is great for referencing different forms and techniques. I enjoyed reading about how to be mindful with ones energy and how to shift energy without making a single, physical movement. The book includes some simple illustrations of each form which is helpful when trying to figure out what each one looks like.

As someone who has dabbled in Qi Gong and T’ai Chi, I can appreciate the simple explanations about how to cultivate ch’i, how to turn it into jing, and how to shoong, or relax. While reading this book, I tried several of the exercises and found that the more I did them, the more I could feel my energy in different parts of my body. This ancient practice is wonderful for all ages and I would recommend this book to everyone.