Tai Chi Sword Joins Body, Mind and Spirit in Harmony
The history of Tai Chi and Taoism are shrouded in mystery but there is a similarity of the two moving through time on parallel paths: movement and exercise coupled with a philosophy that compliments the body, mind and spirit.
The Tai Chi Sword is one of the most popular weapons in the Tai Chi Chuan System and shares many common concepts and principles. To use the Tai Chi Sword means years of learning Tai Chi and attaining a sense of balance and flexibility so one can move in unison with the other. This is the first basic principle. The second principle is to move with speed and accuracy. The third principle is to have spirit and natural breathing in each movement for smooth execution.
Holding the sword correctly is one of the most important aspects in practicing the Tai Chi Sword. In general, the grip should not be too tight, but should be held loosely so that the sword is held lightly with firmness. A flexible wrist for easy rotation and bend is required. The speed of the Tai Chi Sword should be faster than the actual Tai Chi Chuan’s solo form. The bottom line to master Tai Chi Sword is through control without stress to allow for flexibility.
The ultimate goal is to bring mind and body into harmony so that the sword becomes an extension of the body. It is essential to extend the mind through the tip of the sword for a smooth flow of power that moves through the blade, not the arm. Using the Tai Chi Sword can be a mystical experience.