www taichichuan com br€¦ · N U M B E R 18 M A Y 2018 EQUILIBRIUS® Quarterly Newsletter Yang...

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18MAY

2018

EQUILIBRIUS® Quarterly NewsletterYang FAMILY Tai Chi Chuan

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EQUILIBRIUS® NewsletterYang family Tai Chi Chuan

http://www.facebook.com/equilibrius.rphttp://www.youtube.com/equilibriusbrasilwww.taichichuan.com.br

This is a quarterly electronic publication by

EQUILIBRIUS® – Centro de Tai Chi Chuan, Acupuntura e Cultura OrientalYANG CHENGFU TAI CHI CHUAN CENTER BRAZIL

R. Cerqueira César, 1825 - Jd. Sumaré - Ribeirão Preto - SP - CEP 14025-120Phone: (16) 3911-1236 – E-Mail: [email protected]

DIRECTORS: Fernando De Lazzari and Dra. Cenira Braga BarrosGRAPHIC DESIGN AND TRANSLATIONS: Cyntia S. Levy / EDITING: Cyntia S. Levy and Fernando De Lazzari

SUPPORT: RTBC (Tai Chi Brasil Magazine) - www.RevistaTaiChiBrasil.com.br

This publication and its contents may not be utilized or reproduced, in any form (electronic or mechanical), without the Editor’s prior permission.

Editorial

Tai Chi Chuan is becoming

more popular, and an in-

creasing number of people are

welcoming this chinese Art,

in search of balance, tranquil-

ity and better health.

At the same time, this is

also happening because of the

growing number of people

dealing with stress, anxiety,

depression and many health is-

sues. Therefore, the awareness

that taking care of one’s physi-

cal and mental health is essen-

tial in order to enjoy life with

quality is also spreading.

The number of Tai Chi

Chuan Instructors, in Brazil and

in many other countries, is

growing too, in order to at-

tend those who are in need of

an activity that can bring them

physical, emotional and men-

tal balance, and that can help

them deal with life’s difficuties

and problems.

Nowadays, EQUILIBRIUS

has 14 Instructors in 11 cities

throughout Brazil, working

with love and dedication to

teach Tai Chi Chuan and help

these people.

We’re in close contact with

the International Yang Family

Tai Chi Chuan Association’s

work, that has many Instructors

teaching in dozens of countries.

The mission of the Association

and the Yang Family is to

spread this Art, and to help

improve people’s health in

many aspects.

In this and in the previous

17 Newsletters, you’ll see

we’re strongly engaged in pro-

moting Tai Chi Chuan to as

many people as possible, and

to share information and

teachings of great Tai Chi

Chuan Masters and Professors.

Tai Chi’s practice and philoso-

phy are valuable allies for

those seeking better health,

balance and well-being.

We feel gratified just to

see the excellent results shown

by the practitioners, telling us

about many benefits and im-

provements they are experi-

encing with the regular prac-

tice of Tai Chi Chuan. And with

the help of the Instructors, stu-

dents and fans of this Art, we

shall continue to promote this

path of well-being, so we can

live in a better society.

As the wise men say: “If

you want to change the world,

try to improve yourself first, by

renewing your inner being.

These transformations will

bring positive changes in your

family circle and work environ-

ment. From then on, the

changes will expand in even

bigger proportions, because

everything we do has an effect

and causes an impact”.

Certainly we all want posi-

tive and uplifting effects in our

lives; so, let’s cultivate and

cherish what’s good and brings

us and others happiness. This

is our motivation and our goal!

Enjoy the teachings and

information in these Newslet-

ters, and make an effort to put

them into practice. There’s no

doubt that there’ll be positive

results, and you’ll benefit from

them. You are the maker of

your life’s legacy. See you all

in our next edition!

Prof. Fernando De Lazzari

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EQUILIBRIUS® NewsletterYang FAMILY Tai Chi Chuan

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Short Storiesof Great Masters

Free translation and text editing of articles published at: https://munndialarts.com/english/master-yang-shao-hou/; Wikipédia; https://www.facebook.com/notes/toni-parada/master-yang-shaohou/1997833636898167/; http://discovertaiji.com/it/yang-family-fajin_91.html;http://www.itcca.it/peterlim/yshsmfr.htm

The older brother of the celebrated MasterYang Chengfu and grandson of Master Yang

Luchan (Newsletter nº1 / Feb2014), Master Yang Shaohouwas born in 1862, his father being Master Yang

Jianhou (Newsletter nº15 / Aug2017). His name at birth –

Yang Zhaoxiong, was later changed to Mengxiangand then Shaohou. He and his brother YangChengfu represent the third generation of theYang Family Tai Chi Chuan.

Yang Shaohou studied with his father andalso with his uncle Yang Banhou (known as “Invin-

cible Yang” - Newsletter nº10 / May2016). In the early years,

he taught the ‘middle frame’ developed by hisfather, but later he began developing his own sig-nature style, which was likely developed from thetechniques taught to him by his uncle.

He taught this ‘small frame’ or also known as´small circle´ Form only to advanced students, whohad already become accomplished in the largeForm. Its execution demanded a very high levelof preparation, including intensive practice andsystematic zhan zhuang, as well as other internalre-enforcement exercises.

It was known as the ‘small frame’ because ofits compact movements, and should be distin-guished from the ‘small frame’ taught by YangLuchan and Yang Banhou in the Imperial Court.Yang Shaohou’s small frame is essentially a com-bination of the elements of the large and smallframes, characterized by high and low postureswith small movements done in a sometimes slowand sometimes sudden manner. Its 200 movementswere done very quickly – in about 2 to 3 minutes,but without losing the qualities of the large frame,such as relaxation, sinking, calmness and continu-ity. It was a Form of Tai Chi Chuan centered onefficacy in combat.

Yang Shao Hou’s Tai Chi Chuan exhibited thelittle known advanced level skills such as attack-ing accupoints, bone locking, bone hitting, block-ing and controlling pressure points relating toblood flow, spectacular fa-chin at great speed andcontinuous motion with one technique flowinginto another.

When he did his Form, his eyes led the way,blazing and looking in all directions; he often hada grim smile on his face and would shout and roar

to distract the oppo-nent. Though hismovements were re-laxed, sunk and con-tinuous, his Form wasso swift that he ap-peared to be dartingall over the place.

It is told that whensomebody referred toTai Chi Chuan as a poor method, unable to bringfighting skills, Shaohou would get in the mood tofight, and although the opponents were oftenstrong men, they would not stand a chance againsthim. His skills in vibrating and receiving jin wereso deep that he would win with just one touch.His fighting style relied on vitality and he appre-ciated moving steps pushing hands, especially theLu technique – reason why he became known as“Fei-Lu Yang Shaouhou”, and also “Mr. Big”.

One of his students said: “Yang Shaohou’s jinwas ever spontaneous and song to the extreme,fast beyond compare. His body skills were myste-rious and treacherous like a ghost appearing and

reappearing, fooling his opponents, so they wouldhave no idea what was happening or how to de-fend themselves until they had fallen to his jinbefore even knowing it.”

Yang Shaohou, like his uncle Banhou, wasknown to have had a very forceful nature, and bothof these Masters are considered to have been verydemanding teachers. He was known for not re-straining his strikes with his few students and todemand tough training regimes. In contrast to hisbrother Yang Chengfu, he did not seek to changehis training to make it more accessible. On the con-trary, he sought to teach the Art of combat only tothe best students, sorted on the fly through theroughest and strictest of teaching methods.

Master Yang Shaohou had only one son –Yang Zhen Sheng (1878-1939). He took his own lifeat the age of 68, in 1930.

Master Yang Shaohou

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Pat Rice has been involved in in-

ternal health practices since 1972

and in Chinese Martial Arts and in-

ternal practices since 1975.

In 1988, she was an athlete mem-

ber of the U.S. Wushu Team and com-

peted in Tai Chi Chuan at the Inter-

national Wushu Invitational Tourna-

ment in Hangzhou, China. During

that event, she met Grandmaster

Yang Zhenduo, and arranged to study

further with him in Taiyuan, Shanxi.

She participated in many na-

tional and international tourna-

ments and championships as a mem-

ber of U.S. team, and later on has

sponsoured, directed, judged and or-

ganized many other courses and

events around the world.

Also, she served as mem-

ber for several Wushu related

organizations and commit-

tees, besides publishing ar-

ticles on Tai Chi Chuan,

Wushu, and self defense.

She has conducted

workshops in the U.S. and

abroad for more than 30

years. She is Director and

Instructor at her own

school, the Shenandoah

Taijiquan Center / Yang

Chengfu Center in Win-

chester, Virginia since 1992.She’s part of the Inter-

national Yang Family Tai ChiChuan Association’s Advi-

sory Board of the Judges

and Ranking Department.

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Pat RiceInterview with Prof.

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EQUILIBRIUS: We wish to thank you very much

for granting us this interview, and for sharing

your experience and knowledge in the prac-

tice and teaching of Tai Chi Chuan.

PROF. PAT: It’s my pleasure. I enjoy this kind of

exchange very much, so thank you for inviting

me to share my views and experiences.

1 • EQUILIBRIUS: When have you known and

started to practice Tai Chi Chuan?

PROF. PAT: I first saw Tai Chi Chuan around 1977

and I was immediately enthralled. Very soon I

began to learn it, first as an adjunct to the

Kung Fu studies I was engaged in, and then as

a stronger focus, and eventually I came to study

it almost exclusively.

2 • EQUILIBRIUS: You’ve learned many Styles

of Martial Arts throughout the years. In your

opinion, what are the highlights of Tai Chi

Chuan, especially of Yang Family Style?

PROF. PAT: I have had numerous opportunities

to participate in other styles of Martial Arts,

mostly Chinese styles. Over my more than forty

years as a student and an observer and as an

official at numerous tournaments at all levels

– including internationals, I have had the ex-

traordinary opportunity of meeting many

high-level practitioners, seeing them demon-

strate their skills, and hearing them explain and

teach their Art.

I’ve taken a few workshops and some ex-

tended studies, but really Tai Chi Chuan has

been my first love and primary focus.

I think the reason I am attached to this Art

form, above all others, is that it touches me in

many areas of my life. I can attest to its value as

a physical Art that gives me health and strength.

Its philosophical basis guides me through many

life changes and crises and pleasures. I’ve met

countless special players and made treasured

friendships. And it is my livelihood, too!

I had learned four other Yang-based Forms

before I met Grandmasters Yang Zhenduo and

Yang Jun. I felt a kinship right away and made

the decision to follow them, because of their

knowledge and the generosity of their teach-

ing. The Yang Family style seems to suit me

very well because of its simplicity and its depth.

3 • EQUILIBRIUS: When people start to learn

and practice Tai Chi Chuan, aparently the

physical aspect is the main difficulty. How can

the emotional and mental balance help in a

students’ development in the Art?

PROF. PAT: There’s no doubt that Tai Chi Chuan

is challenging to learn, just from a physical

perspective. There can be an overwhelming

amount of detail to the movements.

I like to remind students that it’s a life-time

project to learn this, and even if they don’t

ever ‘get good’ at it, it’s the work that delivers

the benefits. And it should be fun to partici-

pate, even when its purposes are serious –

“Brush Knee and Smile!”

In 2006, alongside Master Yang Jun and fellow CenterDirectors, during the 49 movements Form Seminar,

held at EQUILIBRIUS in Ribeirão Preto, Brazil

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4 • EQUILIBRIUS: What do you consider to be

an ideal daily Tai Chi Chuan practice?

PROF. PAT: I don’t know if there is such a thing!

It depends on what stage of learning one is

going through, to decide whether to repeat a

whole routine, study intensively just a few

movements, address basics, handle weapons,

train with a partner.

I’d like to say that the main point is to dedi-

cate some part of each day to training, and

certainly to take the lessons into the rest of

one’s life.

5 • EQUILIBRIUS: You have created and orga-

nized in U.S.A. a big event called “A Taste of

China”. When did this event start? What was

the purpose of this event?

PROF. PAT: A Taste of China started in 1983, when

my first teacher, Steve Rhodes, went to the

Beijing Sports Institute to train Tai Chi Chuan,

and so many people wanted to know what it

was like that we decided to organize an event

that would simulate some of that experience.

From the beginning, our purposes were

quite clear: we wanted to promote Tai Chi Chuan,

to bring together Tai Chi players of all schools

and styles, to create a basis for further exchange,

and to create an opportunity for many distin-

guished and well-known Teachers to meet to-

gether and exchange ideas and experiences.

As we expanded the scope and themes of

‘AToC’, we invited top-level Teachers from all

over the world to be on our faculty – probably

more than 50 – teaching many topics in nearly

a hundred programs.

And participants came from everywhere,

too. One favorite feature was the “Friendship

Demonstrations”, where the audience got to

see many styles of Chinese Martial Arts per-

formed by outstanding practitioners.

In 1988, we introduced “The USA All-

Taijiquan Championships”, the first of our four-

teen tournaments that were exclusively for Tai

Chi Chuan and other Chinese internal Arts.

Grandmaster Chen Xiao Wang was a special

guest Instructor for the annual Seminar.

In 1990, Grandmaster Yang Zhenduo and

Yang Jun were featured, and they returned

several times. In 2012, the thirtieth year, I “re-

tired” A Taste of China.

I believe that it accomplished the goals

that we’d established, as it created a time and

place and atmosphere where players of all lev-

els got to meet each other. Many lasting con-

nections arose from those interactions, and it

influenced the development of Tai Chi Chuan

in a way I truly could never have anticipated.

Interview with Prof.

“I hope students will

allow themselves

sufficient time at the

beginner level to feel

the self-improvements

they’re looking for.”

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6 • EQUILIBRIUS: You have known many Tai Chi

Chuan Masters. What were the most precious

experiences and teachings that you have

learned with these Masters?

PROF. PAT: Yes, what extraordinary opportuni-

ties I have had in my life, to meet so many high-

level Masters! I’ve traveled in many countries,

and to cities large and small, and seen famous

places and people, because of my involvement

with Tai Chi Chuan.

I’ve been an athlete competitor in Forms

and Push Hands, been trained and served as a

tournament judge, organized and directed

tournaments, composed rules for tournaments

and Push Hands competitions, been an admin-

istrator for three International Wushu Tourna-

ments, toured as a performer, and worked in

various ways with many other knowledgeable

officials and Masters.

I’ve had the privilege to study with some

of the best Instructors in the world. I wasn’t

always the best student, usually struggling to

be worthy. The very top Instructors were al-

ways kind and encouraging as well as highly

skilled. I have been blessed!

7 • EQUILIBRIUS: What are your recommenda-

tions to the beginners and to those who want

to start practicing Tai Chi Chuan?

PROF. PAT: I believe that Tai Chi Chuan can be

good for everyone, so I try to emulate my fin-

est Teachers, by encouraging new students to

be joyful in what they are learning, not to be

overly self-critical, and to be persistent.

One of my favorite teachers used to say

“If they like you, they will like Tai Chi!” So I try

to show my passion for Tai Chi Chuan, to have

fun myself, not be too strict, and to be an ex-

ample of Tai Chi Chuan’s good benefits. I hope

students will allow themselves sufficient time

at the beginner level to feel the self-improve-

ments they’re looking for.

Pat Rice

7 • EQUILIBRIUS: And what are your sugges-

tions to advanced practitioners?

PROF. PAT: Not so different from beginners,

actually – they are still learning, and some

things are new to them. I have that experience

myself at our Director’s Seminars!

Making corrections and developing good

foundational work becomes more important

at this level. And it’s even more essential to

adhere to classical Principles, and to be self-

reflective. What is really a special joy to me as

a Teacher is to have long-time students who

become colleagues.

8 • EQUILIBRIUS: Please, leave us a final message!

PROF. PAT: For all of us who have entered the

door into the study of Tai Chi Chuan, we share

the attitude that we do this not merely to train

our body and to fill our head, it is a way to

preserve our spirit and to open our heart.

Thank you for inviting me to speak about

these things and people that are dear to me.

Thank you very much!

“We share the attitude

that we do this

not merely to train

our body and to fill our

head, it is a way to

preserve our spirit and

to open our heart.”

Prof. Pat between Prof. Fernando De Lazzari and MasterYang Jun, at the 2008 Directors Seminar in Seattle, U.S.A.

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2018 WORLD TAI CHI CHUAN

World Tai Chi Chuan &

Qi Gong Day is cel-

ebrated since 1999, and its

main purpose is to promote

this Art and make it more

acessible to the people.

Since 2000, EQUILIBRIUS

participates in this event, al-

ways on the last weekend of

the month of april. Teachers,

practitioners, students and the

general public gather to en-

joy open practices and also

watch demonstrations of

Yang Family’s Forms, Weapons

and Tui Shou, so they can bet-

ter grasp the scope of this Art.

For more information

about this important com-

memorative date – which is

part of the World’s Health

Organization’s calendar of

events, see Newsletter nº6 /

May2015, and also check out

the photos of the activities

that EQUILIBRIUS and its Rep-

resentatives have organized.

At EQUILIBRIUS • RIBEIRÃO PRETO – SPwith Profs. Fernando De Lazzari & Castro Júnior

In BOTUCATU – SPwith Prof. Marcelo Delmanto

In REGISTRO – SPwith Prof. Anderson Severo

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& QI GONG DAY CELEBRATION

In SÃO MANUEL – SPwith Prof Simone Destro

In MARÍLIA – SPwith Prof. Murilo dos Santos

In BELO HORIZONTE – MGwith Prof. Tiago Tosi

In GOIÂNIA – GOwith Prof. Geraldo Teixeira

In SÃO JOSÉ DO RIO PRETO– SPwith Prof. Geraldo Sabino

In SÃO CARLOS – SPwith Prof. Débora Ferreira

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About the Cultivation of WillYì Zhì •

Once in a TV interview, the consultant

Robert Wong was talking about motiva-

tion – and listed five reasons which usually

drives us to do something, universal reasons

that apply to us all:

1 obligation / necessity • It’s like a duty,

an imposition, like “I have do do it”.

2 fear / insecurity • It’s something that if we

don’t do, will bring negative consequences

(that we don’t want/ desire); like “I cannot

escape from doing it”, or “if I don’t do it...”

3 acceptance / non resistance • It’s something

that’s part of our routine, our responsibili-

ties/tasks; something we’re used to doing and

is part of our daily tasks; like “I do it, or

I’m ok in doing it”.

4 satisfaction / pleasure • all the activities that

gives us pleasure, that we enjoy and do with

a smile and happiness; like “I like to do it”.

5 love / will • It’s everything that we engage

in doing with free will, with good mood and

in a spontaneous way; like “I want to do it”.

Will ( yì zhì / ) is the first item which

we must cultivate in the Moral of the Mind

( pin dé / ) of the Martial Morality Code

( wu dé / ). Will precedes all actions. It’s

the supreme ridge of intent and the fondation

of action. If we do something against our will,

it’ll be for one of the three reasons listed above.

If something we do is considered to be an

obligation, the following action will be empty,

devoid of motivation and susceptible to mis-

takes and negative results. For instance: if we

go to work only thinking about the reward at

the end of the month (paycheck), we might not

fulfill our responsibilities regarding the roll we

assume in the organization, and will not have

motivation to try and be more efficient,

or even to learn more and improve ourselves.

If in a given moment we act from fear of

the consequences, the action is a temporary

remedy and will not have structure, time will

tear it down. It’s like when we study only to

pass the test, but the teachings won’t be as-

similated, because the mind didn’t absorb

them; we’re only using our short-term memory.

Another example: if we go to a class, course

or any other event simply because we already

paid for it, something is speaking louder than

our will, and consequently we negate ourselves

of the benefits that we could reap.

When we act with non resistance, still we

don’t feel glad about it; instead, we feel neu-

tral and think: “whatever”, a vague feeling of

mission accomplished. Even so, being used to

doing something is a kind of mental stagna-

tion, a numbness that comes from a tempo-

rary relief, self-resigning with a situation. If a

relationship is described as being “not all bad”

or is referred to as “could be worse”, we are

interacting with the situation, as co-partici-

pants – and not acting by ourselves as the main

characters. This can be perceived when we

answer something like “as always...” whenever

we’re questioned about our lives.

The actions done with satisfaction aren’t

more common than the last three above,

although maybe they are more easily remem-

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yì zhìidea

opinion

reason

“the toneof the

heart”

will

volition

to remember

WILL

MORAL OFTHE MIND

pin déquality

goods

rank

sample

virtue

personal energy

“to act withthe heart ina truthfulway”

ˆ

MARTIALMORALITY

wu démilitary

martial

virtue

personal energy

“to act withthe heart ina truthfulway”

ˆ

bered because they’re pleasant, and our mind

likes good memories, as well as our heart. In

this case, no one forces us to act, nor there is a

threat that instigates our action; also, our mind

isn’t disturbed, and our actions are more fo-

cused and clear. But unfortunately, it’s impos-

sible for us to do only the things that gives us

pleasure – we live in a society, and each per-

son, space and situation are different to us.

Now, the voluntary action (the one that’s

done with spontaneity, without coercion, structured

on one’s own will) is a goal, something we strive

for. That’s because before existing as inherent

to us, it has to get rid of everything that we

depend upon: physical and emotional barri-

ers. We can perceive these obstacles whenever

we give excuses, such as: lack of money, lack

of time, lack of support, lack of space. The big-

gest lack, in truth, is our mind’s lack of focus.

When we act guided by will, we do it not

only because we like it, but because we want

to do it. There is nothing in that action that

diverts us, prevents us, runs us down or makes

us doubt it. In this action, which is built upon

the so-called will power, vibrates the sparkle

of what is natural to us, part of our essence.

It’s the liveliness, the mood, the inner joy.

No longer our mind diverts us, demands from

us, threatens or punishes us, nor does it see be-

yond the present moment. That’s why the ac-

tion done by will represents the now, and doesn’t

have the results as a target, but instead embod-

ies the action, making it real (genuine, pure).

In the ancient texts of the Orient (texts of

the Bhagavad-Gita, Upanishads, and the Buddhist

precepts) there are comments about the over-

coming of the desires. These are created by

our tendency in discriminating things, there-

fore establishing likes/predilections (raga) and

dislikes/aversions (dvesa), and consequently –

bringing pain/suffering (dukkha).

When we discriminate things, persons or

situations, we walk away from their essential

neutrality (the reality). Doing this, we wrongly (by

ignorance) embed ourselves with a load of respon-

sibility: “if I don’t like/enjoy this, I’m not happy...”

But satisfying oneself by doing what one

likes or by getting rid of a dislike is a tempo-

rary relief, because desires never end by being

saciated. In this way, the happiness we seek

always seems to depend on something – we

seek it (or we don’t find it) in things, persons and

situations. Swami Dayananda Saraswati tells us:

“Our predilections and aversions don’t allow

us to feel the joyfulness that we are, and makes

us see it in things where it can be found.“

Will is a virtue we must conquer, that

should be cultivated, it demands discipline,

because it requires the quietude of the mind –

its balance is not disturbed by external inter-

ferences. An action that comes from will

doesn’t create the need of searching for hap-

piness, because it’s done in happiness (with it).

We are happy in doing it – it doesn’t create

the eagerness for positive results. Will is not a

fruit that we collect, but it’s the seed we plant.

Be willing to do something, wanting to do

it, means that mind and action are syncronized,

and one doesn’t subjugate the other. When

Master Yang Chengfu teaches us about “Har-

monizing the Internal and External” on the Ten

Essential Principles of Tai Chi Chuan, he’s show-

ing us the path to self-control, as well as show-

ing how to cultivate will. Body and mind mov-

ing together silently in the present moment,

and not attached to external influences.

So, regarding any action we may take, we

can try to discover and think about what is

pushing us (desire), what results we are expect-

ing (intention), and how our minds are involved

in it all. Everyday, and in every decision, we

have the opportunity to better know ourselves.

“The mind should be tranquil to discover tran-

quility, relatively happy to discover happiness,

and relatively affectionate to discover love.”

About will, Bruce Lee once said: “I’m just

being natural, because there’s no fear or doubt

in my mind.” Tai Chi Chuan’s ultimate goal is

to bond the spirit of man to that of nature’s.

Doing something having will as a guide is con-

necting oneself to nature, and in doing so,

the action will be worthy of its essence.

Cyntia S. Levy

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201818Nº

EQUILIBRIUS® NewsletterYang family Tai Chi Chuan Shen (Kidneys) according to

Traditional Chinese Medicineby Dra. Cenira Braga Barros • Acupuncturist and Biomedic

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Regarded as the organ thatoriginates life, Qi (Energy),

the basis of Yang and Yin, andof the body’s water and fire.Water is the body – the kidneysshape; fire is its execution – thekidneys functions.

It’s an even organ, and tra-ditionally, there’s a distinctionbetween the left kidney (Yin) andthe right kidney (Yang). It’s a sym-bolic and physiological distinc-tion, not an anatomical one.

The kidneys are the root ofthe prior Heaven, source of thetrue Yin (Zhen Yin) and the Origi-nal Yang (Yuan Yang). Althoughgenerally, regarding water andthe Five Movements, the kid-neys are known to be organs ofwater and fire.

It’s main function is tolodge one of life’s treasures:the Essence or Ancestral Energy(Jing). The parents’ Prenatal Jingis the origin of the body; that’swhy the kidneys are calledthe root of life, since the Pre-natal Energy is the basis of Qi,together with the Postnatal(Postnatal Jing).

Because it stores Jing,Shen is often known as the“Root of Precelestial Qi”. It’s thebasis of the whole body’s Yin

and Yang. They control the wa-ter and collect the Qi.

According to Nan Jin (The

Classic of Difficult Issues), the MingMen (the Gate of Vitality) is theright kidney (Yang kidney) andthe left one is the organ (Yin kid-

ney). For others, Ming Men ex-ists in both kidneys. And thereare some such as Zhao Xian Ke,of the Ming Dynasty, that pin-points it between the two kid-neys. Be that as it may, Ming

Men represents a particular as-pect regarding the activities ofthe kidneys.

The main purpose of MingMen is to regulate the Yuan Qi

(Original Energy), which is essen-tial to create the body’s ener-gies; that’s why the expression“Ming Men Fire” refers to theYuan Qi. Because Ming Men ifoften related to the kidneys’Yang and is responsible for theregulation of the body’s tem-perature and activities.

But, for some authors,Ming Men cannot be limited tothe Yang aspect. For them,Ming Men is the Original Yang,the true Yang, the so-called“Ming Men Fire” (Ming Men Huo)

and the Original Yin or True Yin,called “Ming Men Water” (Ming

Men Zhi Shui), also a more Yin

aspect. It regulates the sexualactivities, helps the kidneysgather the Qi and the heart inhousing the spirit.

Water’s Yin aspect repre-sents the ability to let things flowalong the natural course ofevents, of following our desti-nies, which depends on the goodhealth of the kidneys, which pro-

vides us with the wiseness andcompetence for doing so. Fear,which is a common emotion ofour survival intinct, guides theQi by submerging or contractingit, similarly to the energy of thewater element connected tothe kidneys.

Fear is harmful to the kid-neys; if its energy is unbalanced,it’ll create deep or irrationalfobias or fears.

The process of aging alsois related to the the kidney’senergy deficiencies – the longerone lives, the more it wearsdown, that’s why we get old.

The stress of modern daylife also can cause serious mal-functions to the kidneys,decreasing our body’s vitalityand taking away some years ofour lives.

One should maintain andpreserve the energy of the kid-neys, for it’s the body’s most im-portant reservoir. In some cases,they compensate the deficien-cies of other organs, regardlessof the most essential vitalforces. That’s why ancient au-thors recommended to fre-quently invigorate the kidneys.

Main Functions of the Kidneys

• Store Jing and regulate birth, growth, reproduction and development, assuring the strenght of all physiological processes• Produce the bone and spinal marrow, supply the brain• Control the bones• Basis of Yin and Yang (Prime Fire) of all organs• Regulate the movement of water• Gather Qi and distribute it• Control the two lower orifices• Host the willpower• Its energy opens up in the ears and manifests itself in the hair• Fear is the emotion linked to the kidneys

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13MAY

2018

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18Nº


Hexagram 42

INCREASE

Top trigram Sun(Wind) over bottom

trigram Chen (Thunder)

The hexagram represents thesacrifice of those who, liv-

ing in better conditions, wishto benefit those who arestruggling; this is consideredto be an increase, a uniquespirit able to help the world.

Observing how thunderand wind are capable of get-ting stronger and conse-

quently raising each otherspower, men can learn aboutself-development.

Whenever someone seessomething good in otherpeople, one should try to em-body it, so that good thingscan spread. And when notic-ing something bad in oneself,one should eliminate it, free-ing oneself from evil. This ethi-cal transmutation is conscious-ness’ most important increase.

Choosing the path ofrighteousness means that oneis capable of being strong(thunder); correcting one’sflaws suggests flexibility (wind).Perceiving this, wise menknow that in order to increase

what’s good, it’s necessary tominimize flaws and mistakes.

True kindness doesn’t askfor gratitude or recognition – itexists as an inner virtue. A heartthat’s truly kind feels confortedwhenever its kindness is noticed.Therefore, its good influencegrows without barriers.

The real increase occurswhenever man creates properconditions for its arisal in hisown inner self; this happenswhen one cultivates opennessand the love for what is good,when one seeks to increaseone’s virtues. I doing so, what-ever one is hoping for willsurely come his way, as inevi-table as are the laws of nature.

Master Yang Jun is the sixth generation of the Yang Family Tai ChiChuan, current President of the International Yang Family Tai ChiChuan Association and one of today’s greatest Tai Chi Chuan Masters.

Every year, he teaches Seminars in many countries, workingnon-stop to promote the Yang Style Tai Chi Chuan, which isbecoming a popular and worldwide recognized Chinese Art,furthermore helping to improve people’s health.

This is the fifth time that EQUILIBRIUS has the honour of welcomingMaster Yang Jun to Ribeirão Preto and the Tai Chi Chuan Seminar.Any interested person can attend, even without previous experiencein the Art.

V INTERNATIONAL YANG FAMILY TAI CHI CHUAN SEMINARWITH MASTER YANG JUN IN RIBEIRÃO PRETO - SP

Date: November 09, 10 and 11, 2018Place: EQUILIBRIUS / Yang Chengfu Tai Chi Chuan Center – BrazilRegistrations: EQUILIBRIUS Ribeirão Preto Unit – SP(55-16) 3911-1236 or send an e-mail to [email protected] Information: www.taichichuan.com.br/semi18rp.phpRegister now!

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BOOK OF CHANGESI CHING

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14MAY

201818Nº


Yang Family’s Tai Chi Chuan has a new logo. It was con-

ceived so as to be readable in China, as the Association

expands in the country. Grandmaster Yang Zhenduo was respon-

sible for painting the calligraphy used in the logo’s design.

Another modification was the use of the words “Yang Fam-

ily Tai Chi” instead of “Yang Family Tai Chi Chuan”. The term

“Tai Chi Chuan” refers to the Martial Art itself. The term

“Tai Chi” is more expansive, reaching beyond the Martial Art

and expanding its meaning, since it encompasses health, busi-

ness and many other areas.

Yang Family’s Tai Chi ChuanNew Logo

CONNECTIONSAssociation’s

ElectronicNewsletter

Have you already heard of Connections?

It’s a quarterly electronic newsletter, pub-

lished by the International Yang Family Tai Chi

Chuan Association.

Its 6th edition was recently released in

march, 2018. Edited by Carolyn Fung and trans-

lated to 7 languages, including portuguese

and spanish, Connections shares brief notes of

the most recent news regarding the Associa-

tion and its Schools, including events, photos

and videos.

Connections is published in the months of

march, june, september and december.

It’s another way for you to feel more

connected to the Association and also make

good contacts with other members all around

the world.

In this last edition, you can see an exclu-

sive video of Master Yang Jun demonstrating

the New 22 movements Essential Form – which

Master Fang Hong will be teaching this year

at the Seminar in São Paulo – on June 2nd and

3rd. See the calendar of events on page 18 and

at EQUILIBRIUS’s website!

The Association’s Journal continues to be

published twice a year – in march and

september, in both PDF and interactive versions.

Connections, as well as the Association’s

Journal, are exclusive publications for members-

only! Connections is e-mailed to the members,

and the Journal is available for download in the

Members-Only area of the Association’s website.

So, join now! Information on how to become a

member is on page 17 of this newsletter.

PAG

15MAY

2018

☯

18Nº

EQUILIBRIUS® NewsletterYang FAMILY Tai Chi ChuanStudent Testimony

Personal views about the practice of Tai Chi Chuan

After six months learning and practicing Tai Chi Chuan, I can assuredly say that I’m in the rightpath to finding the balance that I need!

It all began when a genetic and hereditary process, which causes joint inflammations, was con-firmed; one of its worst symptoms is uveitis – a painful inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of theeye. There’s no cure for it – and it’s caused by an antigen found in the blood, known as HLA-B27. Stressand exaustion can also trigger it.

I was doing weight-lifting and physical conditioning at that time, not to mention the everydayrunning around routine, and this ended up making me feel more tired and stressed, causing additionalinflammatory issues. I strongly felt that what was lacking was a connexion between the practice ofphysical activity and the mental balance. What could I do, if not change some habits and try to findtranquility and improve health?

What brought me to EQUILIBRIUS was the need of a physical activity that could provide balance tothe physical issues I couldn’t control. Here, I have weekly Acupuncture sessions, and became amazedwith the practice of Tai Chi Chuan. I leave the classes calm and serene, and I sleep much better too. Thiscozy and silent ambience makes us feel the tranquility we are all searching for.

I haven’t been feeling the pain in the joints, which used to constantly inflammate and kept me fromengaging in physical practices, for six months now. It was a vicious circle! Now my mind is tranquil, lessstressed out and more introspective. Because of this, I read and study more!

Lerning about the practice of Tai Chi Chuan also expanded my knowledge about the interactionsbetween body and mind, about the balance of the body’s vital energies, and also about the correctpractice of physical and breathing exercises. I’m seeking a more natural and healthy lifestyle, and Ibelieve I found the one that suits me through Acupuncture and Tai Chi Chuan.

Like Tai Chi’s symbol, the interaction of the principles of yin and yang energies, the practice ofmeditation in motion, I feel I’m experiencing a virtuous circle – where body, mind and consciousness acttogether, bringing me peace and well-being!”

Heloisa Nogueira

“

My name is Milena, I’m a post-graduate and I’ve been practicing Tai Chi Chuan for over six months.Due to the excessive stress I experience in the academic circles, I sought the study and practice

of this Art, trying to find physical and mental balance.I couldn’t be happier with the choice I’ve made; since the first weeks, I already could experience

some benefits, such as a considerable improvement in the quality of sleep, having more energy for thedaily tasks and also less pain.

Besides the physical improvements, Tai Chi Chuan’s practice has also been very effective in improv-ing my mental well-being. Slowly but surely, I’ve noticed I was less anxious, and more focused whileperforming tasks that require mental effort or sustained attention. It also has been easier to overcomeobstacles, whatever they may be, with tranquility and without overexerting myself.

Having experienced so many benefits, my only regret is not to have known this practice sooner.For those who are searching for a better and healthier way of life, I certainly reccommend the practice

and study of Tai Chi Chuan.”

Milena Locci de Oliveira

“

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16MAY

201818Nº

OF

EQUILIBRIUS

RETROSPECTIVE

ACTIVITIES


Mar 3rd

Mar 10th

14th group of the Instructor’sGraduation Course, Ribeirão Preto, SP

feb 2018

Class for students of thepre-entrance exam course, with Prof.

Murilo dos Santos, Marília, SP

Mar 18th & 19th

Instructor’s Reunion and Training,Ribeirão Preto, SP

“Tai Chi at the Park”,with Prof. Geraldo Teixeira,

at Beija-Flor Park, Goiânia, GO

Apr 2018

View EQUILIBRIUS’s Photo Gallery at:www.taichichuan.com.br/fotos.php

Master Yang Jun’s Disciple Ceremony.Standing, from left to right: Profs. Jefferson I. Duarte,

Valéria Sanchez, Roque Severino, Cláudio Montenegro,Angela Soci, Tobias Velho, Andréa Muchão,

Davi Garritano and Adriano Carneiro, in Datong, China

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17MAY

2018

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18Nº


The purpose of this Courseis to impart the teachingsand practices of the Tradi-tional Yang Style Tai ChiChuan, according to thetradition of the Yang Fam-ily Tai Chi Chuan Masters.

Another of our goals is toprofessionally qualify TaiChi Chuan Instructors, ableto promote and teach YangFamily Tai Chi Chuan, inorder to improve people’shealth and quality of life.

This Course is recognizedby the International YangFamily Tai Chi Chuan Asso-ciation, of which we areaccredited and representa-tives in Brazil.

Tai Chi Chuan Instructor’sGraduation Course

REGISTER NOW!

CONTENT AND INFORMATION ABOUT THE COURSE AT:

www.taichichuan.com.br/formacao.php

BECOME A MEMBER OF THE INTERNATIONALYANG FAMILY TAI CHI CHUAN ASSOCIATION –JOIN NOW!

Member Benefits:• Access to the download of Association Journals and electronic publications• Right to an Association’s Member Credential• 10% discount on Seminar tuition• 10% discount in monthly fees for Tai Chi Chuan classes at EQUILIBRIUS• Discount on Association products• Discount on EQUILIBRIUS products• Right to participate in Ranking System• Members may apply to establish a Yang Chengfu Tai Chi Chuan Center

Individual Registry US$ 20/yrFamily Registry US$ 35/yr- The prices are in US$ dollars.- The annuity payment can be made throughbank deposit in brazilian currency (Reais - R$).

To become a member of the InternationalTai Chi Chuan Association, fill the form on the link:http://www.taichichuan.com.br/afilie.php

EQUILIBRIUS® / Yang Chengfu Tai Chi ChuanCenter - Brasil - Ribeirão Preto represents theAssociation and is authorized to register anyperson who wishes to become a member.

O R G A N I Z I N G A N E W G R O U P

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18MAY

201818Nº


FOR MORE INFORMATION ON OUR SCHEDULE OF EVENTS, VISIT:

www.taichichuan.com.br/agenda.php

Tai Chi Chuan Instructor’sGraduation CourseProfessional Graduation Courserecognized by the InternationalYang Family Tai Chi Chuan Association.

Monthly Graduation CourseOrganizing a new group

Intensive Graduation Course1st Module: September

14th – 23rd, 2018

Meditation CourseClasses once every weekfor two months

Starts: May 17th, 2018

Meditation and BreathingExercises WorkshopDate: July 21st, 2018

Instructors andStudents TrainingDate: August 25th, 2018Review and Corrections ofthe Chi Kung sequences

EQUILIBRIUS’s AccreditedInstructors ReunionDate: August 26th, 2018

Introduction do Do-In(Acupressure) andTraditional Chinese MedicineFundamentals CourseStarts: August, 2018

Tai Chi SaberIntensive CourseDate: October, 2018

Pa Tuan Chin CourseEight Pieces of the Brocade

Main CourseDate: to be defined

Advanced CourseDate: to be defined

COURSES • WORKSHOPS • TRAININGS

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EVENTS • SPECIAL ACTIVITIES

at EQUILIBRIUS & other places

Yang Family’s EssentialForm SeminarWith Master Fang Hong

Date: June 1st – 3rd, 2018Open Lecture’s Address - Jun 1st:R. José Maria Lisboa, 612 - sala 7São Paulo – SP (SBTCC Headquarters)

Seminar’s Address - Jun 2nd & 3rd:Al. Lorena, 665 – São Paulo – SPMore Info at: www.sbtcc.org.br

5th International Yang FamilyTai Chi Chuan SeminarWith Master Yang Jun

Date: November 9th - 11th, 2018Place: EQUILIBRIUS – RibeirãoPreto – SP

Yi Jin Jing WorkshopWith Prof. Paula Faro

Date: June 22nd (Lecture) /June 23rd & 24th, 2018 (Workshop)

Place: EQUILIBRIUS – RibeirãoPreto – SP

Tui Shou WorkshopWith Prof . Jefferson I. Duarte

Date: September 29th, 2018Place: EQUILIBRIUS – RibeirãoPreto – SP

Ranking EvaluationLevels 1 to 4

Date: September 30th, 2018Place: EQUILIBRIUS – RibeirãoPreto – SP

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at EQUILIBRIUS • Ribeirão Preto • SP Where to Practice /Representatives

EQUILIBRIUSRibeirão Preto – SP

(16) 3911-1236www.taichichuan.com.br

PROF. Fernando De [email protected]

PROF. José Luiz de Castro [email protected]

PROF. Patty Brown(16) 99994-2403

[email protected]

PROF. Eder José [email protected]

Belo Horizonte – MGPROF. Tiago Vieira Tosi

(31) [email protected]

Botucatu – SPPROF. Marcelo Delmanto


Goiânia – GOPROF. Geraldo Alves Teixeira Júnior


Indaiatuba – SPPROF. Cyntia S. Levy


Marília – SPPROF. Murilo dos Santos Almeida


Registro – SPPROF. Anderson Luiz E. Severo


São Carlos – SPPROF. Débora Ferreira Leite(16) 99704-1416 / 3413-1426

[email protected]

São José do Rio Preto – SPPROF. Geraldo Sabino


São Manuel – SPPROF. Simone Destro


Sertãozinho – SPPROF. Daniel Henrique S. Madruga


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