Health / Tai Chi Glossary

Acupressure: Acupuncture without needles

Acupuncture: Using needles (French, acu = needle) to stimulate or alter the flow of energy in the meridians

acupuncture meridians: Channels of energy circulating through the body, many of which are connecting to the functioning of organ systems.

An (On): Literally 'press down with the hand,' this is one of the Eight Gates Taiji energies. In Taijiquan, the palm is an important conduit for Qi. This makes An (On) jin very direct and powerful. T . . . View Full Definition

Ba Bei (Ba Bui): Literally: 'pulling out of back.' This refers to the convex surface across the upper back that follows abdominal breathing and proper taiji posture with head elevated and shoulders lowered. . . . View Full Definition

Ba gua: The bagua octagon--see explanation on first page of this website. Also, an internal martial art focusing on circular movements.

Ba Hui: A line from behind each ear to the midline on the top of the head will find this point.

Bai Men (Baat Mun): The Eight Gates, referring to eight forms of energy or 'jin/ging' that can be applied in Taijiquan. They are all manifestations of the single internal energy potential of Taiji, which assume . . . View Full Definition

Bubbling well: Also known as bubbling spiring, Kidney 1 (K1 on charts).In the middle of the foot, on the ball, right on the edge of where the arch starts. An energy gate, opening to the earth.

Buddhism: Philosophy of China with focus on the mind and realtiy

Cai (Choi): Literally: 'pick, pluck, gather.' This is one of the Eight Gates energies. It should not be understood as muscular tugging or pulling. It is most effectively applied with a light, quick Yin . . . View Full Definition

central equiliabrium: Look left, look right, shift forward, shift back and central equilibrium are the 'five elements' of Tai Chi movement

Chan: Sticking, adherence.

Chang San-Feng: Master of the Shao-lin Monastery, created the principles of Tai Chi Chuan

Chen Jian Zhui Zhou (Cham Gin Jui Zhau): Literally: 'Sinking the shoulders and dropping the elbows' Lowering the shoulders while keeping the weight of the arms down reduces physical and emotional stress and creates a solid, grounde . . . View Full Definition

Chi: Qi – Energy. Often referring to energy inside the body. Also means breath.

Chi Kung: Qigong – Energy work. A system or method of working with the bodies energy. There are many different kinds of chi kung and many different schools of thought. Tai Chi is one type of Chi Kung.

chin: An explosive force, release of internal energy.

Chin Na: Seize and hold. Refers to Chinese grappling techniques.

ching: Aseminal essence developed in the kidneys: not to be confused with chin.

Confucianism: Philosophy of China based on teaching of Confucius, with focus on relationship of man and society, family and morals.

Confucius: Chinese philosopher: literally 'Mr. Kung Fu.' See kung fu

cosmic stance: Standing meditation posture with arms at chest height like 'hugging a tree.'

Dan Tian: Energy Center. There are three Dan Tian’s in the human body.

Dim Mak: Death Touch. This refers to a knowledge of the bodies vulnerable areas and how to strike them.

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