MASTER FENG GUO AN (GORDON FENG)
Taiji is the application of general Taoist principles and ideas in the context of human motion and physical conflict. One might say that Taiji is principally a means for cultivating an understanding of humanity in its complexity, and Taiji Chuan is the part that addresses human energy and movement. Because Taiji uses qì (气), and most people only use force (lὶ, 力) to move or fight, Taiji operates effectively at a different metaphysical level than force and thus is able to control force. At its most profound and effective level, Taiji is the internalizing of a set of principles governing the use of body, energy and mental intent to affect motion, stillness and balance.
These principles and ideas allow the practitioner to use energy and yì (意) to control his or her opponent, and not use muscle or force. This makes the Taiji practitioner appear to be able either to stand strong like a tree or a mountain, or move effortlessly against opposition like a river or the wind. These are things you can experience. Pushing against a casually standing practitioner is like pushing against a solid immovable object. Conversely, the practitioner can brush the largest opponent aside without using force. This is because Taiji does not use muscle.
I have helped many students understand what is holding back their internal development, whether it’s body position, energy cultivation, or misunderstanding the principles of use or engagement. Within a short time I can identify the deficiencies in your practice and help you overcome them. And then, as new ones develop, help you overcome those as well. Practiced correctly, Taiji has no end. You can continue to practice and improve throughout your life. However, it is also very easy to go off on the wrong path, to use force, to miss balance, to incorrectly use yì (意), the gift of stillness (yīn, 陰) and movement (yáng, 陽) and therefore not improve in this essential way.
Student Experiences
“The most gratifying aspect was that Master Feng wanted me to understand, to really get it; a most welcome change from most teachers”
“Master Feng really wants and enjoys sharing his insights and exploring them with the student.”