Talking Tai Chi with the teapotmOnk
By Paul Read
Additional links for further studies can be found at teaptmonk.com or at the training site 21stcenturytaichi.com
Talking Tai Chi with the teapotmOnkMay 05, 2022
What’s happening Mr Monk?
Tai Chi: The Nuts and Bolts of the Art for Beginners
2024 is time for a update to the old FAQ and beginners guide, so this month I'm giving you a brief audio version of the new guide that you can find here, with all the associated videos that explore each question in more detail.
The new post and guide
https://www.teapotmonk.com/beginners-guide-tai-chi
Keep it Simple and Stupid
Going Beyond the Final Frontier.
What do we mean by The Tai Chi form? How long is it? How many postures does it have? How long does it take to learn?
These simple questions are some of the most difficult to answer, because the Form is not one thing.
There are so many variations that it becomes meaningless to discuss in general terms, but that is what we shall do today. We shall ask Captain Kirk to join us as we go boldly forth and attempt to break it all down, then pick it back up and in so doing, learn a little about what makes a Tai Chi form.
LINKS
A Tale of Two Tai Chi Masters: Perfected Pot Bellies and Proud Eyebrows:
Today, a short Taoist tale recovered recently amongst the ruins of a temple, once situated on the far banks of a certain river, sheltered in the shadows of the Wudan mountains.
The story tells of a peculiar Tai Chi tournament and is called Perfected Pot Bellies and Proud Eyebrows. It features two unusual Tai Chi masters, a goat and the meaning of winning or losing.
For more info and associated graphics see
teapotmonk.com
For more info on the new paperback and free complete Tai Chi video course - see
https://www.teapotmonk.com/learn-a-simple-10-step-tai-chi-form
Every month on the 10th - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- The teapotmonk: https://www.teapotmonk.com
What was your Name Again?
The use and abuse of titles in the martial arts, society and all other places beneath the ozone layer.
- Why is the telephone engineer called Bob and not Master Bob?
- Why is a specialist carpenter, artist or musician not called "Master"?
- Why is there an over reliance on lineage to determine worth?
- How to avoid the dangers of titles and names
On the 10th of each month - a new episode. (with surprise episodes released in-between so make sure you subscribe not to miss these special episodes.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- The teapotmonk: https://www.teapotmonk.com
- The Tai Chi Illustrated Workbook: https://www.teapotmonk.com/taichi-illustrated-workbook
- The new Tai Chi Form paperback: https://www.teapotmonk.com/learn-a-simple-10-step-tai-chi-form
Do Not Die in Shackles (part 2)
How to turn a good intention into a daily practice with Mencius and his radical ideas about doing good. Well, not so radical really, for his ideas are pretty simple, but simplicity is hardly the flavour of the month when we are being sold the idea that life is so complicated we need to purchase out way to simplicity.
On the 10th of each month - a new episode. (with surprise episodes released in-between so make sure you subscribe not to miss these special episodes.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- The teapotmonk: https://www.teapotmonk.com
- The Tai Chi Illustrated Workbook: https://www.teapotmonk.com/taichi-illustrated-workbook
Don't die in Shackles (Part 1): What underlies Your Practice of Tai Chi?
There are many different reasons (on the surface) why we begin our practice of Tai Chi, but underneath this there is but one reason: We are afraid. Afraid of getting hurt, afraid of getting ill, afraid of feeling lost.
Why does fear lie grumbling beneath our feet?
Part 1 in a 2 part series in which we delve into the reasons behind the fear..
Next month: the solutions.
On the 10th of each month - a new episode. (with surprise episodes released in-between so make sure you subscribe not to miss these special episodes.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- The teapotmonk: https://www.teapotmonk.com
- The Tai Chi Illustrated Workbook: https://www.teapotmonk.com/taichi-illustrated-workbook
The Subversive Force of Laughter: Tai Chi's Secret (Unused) Weapon
Welcome to this episode in which we explore the subversive side of humour and how it can liberate, inform, expose and undercut in a way that no kick or punch could ever do. In this episode we ask:
- Why is it that no-one ever chuckles when reading the The Tai Chi Classics?
- What happens when two taoists and a giraffe walk into a bar and one says to the other..
- What is the relationship between eyebrows and cul-de-sacs?
Discover the hidden elements that will help you forget a new form, a new approach and a new haircut and allow your Tai Chi to express itself, rather than simply mirror that of your instructor.
Learn the secret tools of humour in this special version of One Last Thing here.
Renowned International Journalist Gerald Greene is about to retire - when he is persuaded to do One Last Thing - travel back in time to interview the greatest writers and fighters:
- Bruce Lee talks about his nunchaku obsession with Carl Jung
- Alan Watts lectures The Priests from the Shaolin Temple Kung Fu Series
- Rocky talks aggression with Marshal McLuhan
- Lao Tzu discusses productivity and wifi issues in the 5th Century BC
- David Carradine challenges Bruce Lee (on the phone)
- Mas Oyama talks Animal Rights
- Krishnamurti discusses hair with Colt
- Mr Han-Man talks about his concerns with the poster of Enter the Dragon
On the 10th of each month - a new episode. (with surprise episodes released in-between so make sure you subscribe not to miss these special episodes.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- The teapotmonk: https://www.teapotmonk.com
- The Tai Chi Illustrated Workbook: https://www.teapotmonk.com/taichi-illustrated-workbook
The Cult of the Individual
Goodness is spread like a dollop of marmite on your neighbours toast.
Welcome to this second series that begins with a look at how rampant individualism has percolated down into everything we do, even the practices we adopt. It has come to define our lifes purpose, our health, our relationships, our aims and objectives and our martial arts.
What can we do to counter this tendency and how can a practice like Tai Chi offer us a solution? This is the theme of this new series to be released on the 10th of each month. And in between, sporadic and spontaneous complimentary episodes on a host of related material.
Today we begin with the Cult of the Individual and ask: How do you escape the reverb of your thoughts? How do you combat the complacency of the age we live in? And Where do you find purpose in what you do? (answer the poll in this episode notes)
On the 10th of each month - a new episode. (with surprise episodes released in-between so make sure you subscribe not to miss these special episodes.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- The teapotmonk: https://www.teapotmonk.com
- The Tai Chi Illustrated Workbook: https://www.teapotmonk.com/taichi-illustrated-workbook
What's New This mOnth?
The new Tai Chi suggestion page for June is out - plus get 30% off price of the new workbook. See link in show notes and this month you will find:
- An article on the famous ping-pong nunchaku Bruce Lee video that eternally crops up on timelines. What is the truth behind the match?
- You'll also find preview of the podcasts and a video on the Baduanjn bears, that lead into the workouts this month that focus on energy and qigong.
- There is also a brand new 10 minute stretch sequence that will be released on Thursday to alleviate tense and tired bodies
- And a downloadable PDF on the superfood drink of Turmeric and black pepper
- Finally this months audio-book review is RL Wing on the I Ching and and we look not only at a physical book, but the app version too and the digital casting of the coins. Something that sets it apart from all other versions as it is an interactive workbook, something you not only consult but engage with.
PLUS! The New Illustrated Workbook is out. First 30 people get 30% discount.
- The first 30 people to use this coupon will the book at the discounted price.
Discount Code for Workbook
https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/tai-chi-workbook?coupon=PODCAST30PEOPLE30DISCOUNT
What's new this month
https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/this-month
Every month on the 10th - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- The teapotmonk: https://www.teapotmonk.com
Ways we learn Tai Chi: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
Introduction to Series 2 of Talking Tai Chi
A brief introduction to Series 2 of Talking Tai Chi with the teapotmonk.
Every month on the 10th, a new episode to be uploaded, with surprise additional episodes in between, so make sure you subscribe to be notified when the surprises occur.
In the meantime check out the new workbook coming out next month
Every month on the 10th - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- The teapotmonk: https://www.teapotmonk.com
- Ways we learn Tai Chi: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
The Menu is not the Meal
More on Alan Watts
Every other Thursday - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
Tai Chi Training and Resources: www.21stcenturytaichi.com
The teapotmonk: www.teapotmonk.com
Ways we learn Tai Chi: www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
The Teapot Q&A
As we near the near of this series the teapotmonk brings this short update on where we are, whee we are going and changes expected for the rest of the year.
Links form this episode include:
Remember before you go - 3 things you can do right now:
- Go to your podcast app and leave a 5 star review on Spotify, Apple or Google - this will make me insanely happy and will really help others to find it.
- Then go to www.21stcenturytaichi.com and become a member of the academy - that way you’ll get access to the Sketchy history and lots more.
- Finally Whilst there and wondering how to fill your time, Check out the This month tab for all the crazy and amazing new content each month
I look forward to greeting you as a new member and working towards something special from herein
The Illusion of Knowledge
The enemy of knowledge is not ignorance, said Stephen hawking, but the illusion of knowledge.
And what about humility? Where has this gone in an era of self-promotion? And if Sifu does know everything, is that good or bad?
Every other Thursday - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- The teapotmonk: https://www.teapotmonk.com
- Ways we learn Tai Chi: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
Is Tai Chi the Ultimate Productivity Tool?
Understanding the principles of Tai Chi can help you mange your time and handle the pressure to always appear "busy". But how do we apply these principles to the tai chi form and indeed, learning anything?
The Manual of Bean Curd Boxing
Every other Thursday - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- The teapotmonk: https://www.teapotmonk.com
- Ways we learn Tai Chi: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
How to find your Inner Rhythm in Tai Chi
At some point you will have to stop copying and start creating. But how do you find your inner rhythm if you have only been watching another for all time? Discover the best tips including:
Rooting and Shifting
Broken rhythms
Putting down the Remote
Yielding to yourself
Every other Thursday - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- The teapotmonk: https://www.teapotmonk.com
- Ways we learn Tai Chi: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
How to Identify a Sage in under 10 minutes
There is good and bad in everything. In fact most things are composed of the two. Thats what Yin Yang theory tells us. And in the search for a guide or Guru, Sage or Supporter, we often have to compromise.
So take your own critical awareness with you, but don't be too harsh. We all need different things at different times in our lives, and so just make the best of where you are, with whom you are with, and the opportunities that are there. If that is a local class, then go for it and make the best of it. If it is online, then, well, make the best of that too.
Watch this for an update on online teaching.
Krishnamurti appears in One Last thing
Every other Thursday - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- The teapotmonk: https://www.teapotmonk.com
- Ways we learn Tai Chi: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
The Empty Honey Pot: The Tao Te Ching
Forget the Tai Chi Classics or your average manual of instructions. These will tell you what to do, but won't tell you why. For the deeper stuff you'll need to get a copy of the Tao te Ching. In this week we talk about how many toes you should have on your feet, Pooh Bear, Alan Watts and the benefits of the empty honey pot.
Discover the best versions in this book list
Every other Thursday - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- The teapotmonk: https://www.teapotmonk.com
- Ways we learn Tai Chi: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
The Book of Changes: I Ching
It's the ultimate shuffle playlist
The Red pill or the Blue?
The 64 Hexagrams that have been used throughout history to guide behaviour and suggest solutions.
But is the oracle anything more substantial that a series of reflections on change and impermanence?
Check out the list of the best versions
Every other Thursday - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- The teapotmonk: https://www.teapotmonk.com
- Ways we learn Tai Chi: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
Yin & Yang
What do we mean by being in balance and the harmony of the opposites? History, meaning, application and interpretation in this weeks black and white episode.
Every other Thursday - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- The teapotmonk: https://www.teapotmonk.com
- Ways we learn Tai Chi: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
Is Less really More and why should we get to know our Cutlery?
What does this - now cliche - mean and does it have anything useful to tell us about our tai Chi practice? Can Tai Chi help us counter the culture of consumerism?
Minimalism, Voluntary simplicity, downsizing, and going slow. Discover the secrets to getting to know you cutlery in this fascinating episode.
Every other Thursday - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- The teapotmonk: https://www.teapotmonk.com
- Ways we learn Tai Chi: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
Applied Tai Chi Part 2: The Wu of the Wei
In the second part of this mini series we explore Wu Wei - often misunderstood as "non-action" - when it has more to do with timing, patience and when ready - action.
Every other Thursday - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- The teapotmonk: https://www.teapotmonk.com
- Ways we learn Tai Chi: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
Applied Tai Chi 1: The Way of the Tao
New 3 part series on Applied tai Chi - looking at the ways we can use this art outside the classroom and into our daily lives. Today we look at the Tao - and listen to what Bruce Lee, Alan Watts, water, cats and yielding can teach us.
Every other Thursday - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- The teapotmonk: https://www.teapotmonk.com
- Ways we learn Tai Chi: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
Chi, Cheese and a Gerbil's toothache: Part 2
Part 2 in our internal energy investigation and exploration of the elusive Taoist concept of Chi or Qi.
Every other Thursday - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- The teapotmonk: https://www.teapotmonk.com
- Ways we learn Tai Chi: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
Chi, rice and energy: Part 1
How do practitioners define this elusive concept? How can we make sense of it? How do we even spell it? Find out (or not) in todays episode in a new 2 part series.
The mOnks infamous Gazpacho recipe
Every other Thursday - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- The teapotmonk: https://www.teapotmonk.com
- Ways we learn Tai Chi: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
Language Abuse in the Classroom
Cliches can be harmless, if ineffective. But they can also be insulting, condescending and belittling. What are they? And how can we avoid the use and abuse of such phrases in Tai Chi?
Every other Thursday - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- The teapotmonk: https://www.teapotmonk.com
- Ways we learn Tai Chi: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
How to Keep healthy Knees in Tai Chi
Why do your knees ache after practising Tai Chi? Is it normal or is it a sign that something is wrong. Find out how to make sure your knees stay healthy in this weeks episode.
Links:
Every other Thursday - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- The teapotmonk: https://www.teapotmonk.com
- Ways we learn Tai Chi: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
That was Then. This is Now
A new updated podcast 10 years later to quickly review the changes and directions over a decade. Find out where we have been and where we may yet go...
LINKS
An Interview with Anthony Gilbert
Every other Thursday - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- The teapotmonk: https://www.teapotmonk.com
- Ways we learn Tai Chi: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
Meditation in Movement
Every other Thursday - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
Tai Chi Training and Resources: www.21stcenturytaichi.com
The teapotmonk: www.teapotmonk.com
Ways we learn Tai Chi: www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
Beyond the Mechanics of Tai Chi #2
Can Tai Chi cure toothache? Will it enable me to leap tall buildings in a single bound? Can it stop a locomotive? Will it help me develop a six-pack?
How can we go beyond the mechanics of the moves in Tai Chi? Part 2 or a 2 part series looking at the health aspects of the art.
Every other Thursday - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- The teapotmonk: https://www.teapotmonk.com
- Ways we learn Tai Chi: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
Beyond the Mechanics of Tai Chi #1
As a multi-disciplinary art - How can we go beyond the mechanics of the moves in Tai Chi? Part 1 or a 2 part series looking at the health aspects of the art.
Every other Thursday - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
Episode links:
- Read about Confirmation Bias in the Manual of Bean Curd Boxing
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- The teapotmonk: https://www.teapotmonk.com
- Ways we learn Tai Chi: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
How to Spot a thoroughly modern ninja
Why are we training? For what purpose? Who or what are we learning to fight or resist?
Every other Thursday - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Episode links:
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- The teapotmonk: https://www.teapotmonk.com
- Ways we learn Tai Chi: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
The Way of the Weapon
What makes an art Martial?
Do you practice full contact sparring as part of a calorie controlled diet?
What is tai chi? A health art or martial art?
First in a 3 part series on "everybody is tai chi fighting"
Every Thursday afternoon - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- Tai Chi and the teapotmonk: http://instagram.com/teapotmonk
- Ways we learn Tai Chi: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
Reasons to Practice Tai Chi outside the Classroom
Why should we practice outside the classroom and where should we practice?
What happens when someone throws asparagus at you whilst you practice in the park?
And how do you avoid talking tai chi fluff?
For more on the Manual of bean Curd Boxing - follow this link
Every Thursday afternoon - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- Tai Chi and the teapotmonk: http://instagram.com/teapotmonk
- Ways we learn Tai Chi: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
How long does it take to learn the Tai Chi Form?
Last week we looked at how best to learn the tai chi form and this week we ask: how long does it take to learn?
Maybe we should ask ourselves first, what's the rush?
Check out this video if you are really in a rush to learn.
One tip is to focus on transitions rather than moves and you will explore the beauty of learning with your body rather than with your ears or tongue.
Every Thursday afternoon - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- Tai Chi and the teapotmonk: http://instagram.com/teapotmonk
- Ways we learn Tai Chi: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
Going beyond Copying. Another Way to Learn Tai Chi
Thoreau said "only when we forget our learning do we begin to know".
Does your learning get in the way of your tai chi form? How do you learn from your teacher? By copying and pasting?
There are many ways to learn tai chi, but the most important is to look for principles over metrics. Avoid memorising as this only freezes postures and stagnates flow.
Every Thursday afternoon - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- Tai Chi and the teapotmonk: http://instagram.com/teapotmonk
- Ways we learn Tai Chi: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
Ice Dissolving in Water_ The Formless Form in Tai Chi
Memory - muscles, foam, short and long term - discover another anarchic 10 minutes of teapotmonk insights into Tai Chi and training.
See last weeks episode for more on this subject and...
Every Thursday afternoon - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- Tai Chi and the teapotmonk: http://instagram.com/teapotmonk
- Ways we learn Tai Chi: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
Authenticity and Pizzas in Tai Chi
Comedy Cafe: Two shackled Students of Tai Chi discuss which of their styles is more authentic than the other.
teapotmonk drama this week as he asks: Are you trapped in history? Does your teachers definition of authenticity define your every waking moment? How can we break out of this shackle that permeates our training and approach to learning?
Every Thursday afternoon - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- Tai Chi and the teapotmonk: http://instagram.com/teapotmonk
- Ways we learn Tai Chi: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
It's All About Style: Part 2
Second part in this 2-part series on Tai Chi Styles. What are they? What are the differences? Why are there differences and what criteria should we use - other than cheese - to determine which if any - are good?
Plus, How to Learn Online these days - link to an article and resources.
Every Thursday afternoon - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
- Tai Chi Training and Resources: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
- Tai Chi and the teapotmonk: http://instagram.com/teapotmonk
- Ways we learn Tai Chi: https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/ways-of-learning-taichi
It's All About Style: Part 1
What is it about Styles that divides and conquers? Why are we separated as stylists and what does this say about us? Find out in this 2-part series on Tai Chi styles and if you would like to see more about Spain and its fiestas - you can catch some glimpses as I travel across the country on my instagram travel account - teapotmonk.
Every Thursday afternoon - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com
http://instagram.com/teapotmonk
A Modern Take on Tai Chi History: Part 3
Part 3 of a 3 part series investigating the controversial and disputed history of the art. As the teapotmonk sees the line between fact and fiction as increasingly blurred, he presents his own take on how it all came about - in 3 parts.
For the full parody you'll need to read the History of Martial Arts Philosophy: One Last Thing in which, the narrator is able to travel back in time and record the words of the original protagonists for the enlightenment of all.
You may also wish to discover a little more about Cheng Man-ch'ing and can do so by downloading this free PDF on the man or read more about him here.
Every Thursday afternoon - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
A modern Take on Tai Chi History: Part 2
Part 2 of a 3 part series investigating the controversial and disputed history of the art. As the teapotmonk sees the line between fact and fiction as increasingly blurred, he presents his own take on how it all came about - in 3 parts.
For the full parody you'll need to read the History of Martial Arts Philosophy: One Last Thing in which, the narrator is able to travel back in time and record the words of the original protagonists for the enlightenment of all.
Every Thursday afternoon - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
Bonus Podcast: The New Kid on the Block
"Half an hour a week of any strengthening exercises, even something as basic as push-ups, could reduce your risk of dying from any cause (including heart disease, cancer and diabetes) by as much as one-fifth."
Guardian newspaper Feb 28th 2022 referring to article carried out in the British Journal of Sports Medicine
It is clear that our health and well-being depend on more than just deep breathing and good posture. As much as Tai Chi is a great exercise - Are we live in changing times in which we need now to be doing more?
What else can we do? What else Should we do? Well, that’s what we are going to look at in todays episode…
There are now 3 approaches to learning Online
- Self-paced courses
- Zoom or Youtube live
- A combination of 1 & 2 as a Hybrid
Discover something about the new hybrid models evolving that combine the best of research and self-study with the back up of an academy, q&a, forums and now weekly workouts covering the need for strengthening exercises that are so important as we get older.
A modern take on Tai Chi History Part 1
Part 1 of a 3 part series investigating the controversial and oft disputed history of the art. As the teapotmonk has absolutely no idea as to what could or could not be fact or fiction, he presents his own take on how it all came about - in 3 parts.
For the full parody you'll need to read the History of Martial Arts Philosophy: One Last Thing in which, the narrator is able to travel back in time and record the words of the original protagonists for the enlightenment of all.
Every Thursday afternoon - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
Why are there no uniforms in Tai Chi?
Todays Talking Tai Chi Episode: A Lack of Uniformity
In Karate and Judo and other martial arts, practitioners wear uniforms. In Tai Chi - some people wear silk suits whilst others wear jeans and t-shorts. And what about belts and gradings? Can you become a black belt in Tai Chi?
A brief discussion on why belts are great for holding up trousers, but not always for determining skill levels.
The teapotmonk muses on the nuances of the art in this 6th episode of the series.
Article Links
1. teapotmonk on Uniforms and Gift Culture in Tai Chi
2. Rodney Owen on Uniforms and Clothes
Josh Young on Cultural Inheritance (lost link)
Every Thursday afternoon - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
For more on Tai Chi - articles and videos: www.teaptomonk.com
For training courses and free introductory PDFs - www.21stcenturytaichi.com
Anniversary Edition: Cheng Man-ch'ing and his Tai Chi Short Form
SHOW NOTES
On this special anniversary of the death of Cheng Man-ch'ing - I have compiled a series of videos, articles and this podcast to celebrate the unique changes this man brought to the world of Tai Chi. Want to know what they were? Check out the links below for the video documentary on his legacy and testimonials from students and more.
Special Page
https://www.21stcenturytaichi.com/cheng-man-ching-anniversary-tai-chi
One Last thing
What Does Tai Chi Mean?
Todays Talking Tai Chi Episode:
Why are there different spellings and pronunciations of Tai Chi and what do they all mean? Why do schools and people argue over meanings and Does any of this matter at all?
The teapotmonk muses on the nuances of the art in this 5th episode of the series.
Every Thursday afternoon - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
For more on Tai Chi - articles and videos: www.teaptomonk.com
For training courses and free introductory PDFs - www.21stcenturytaichi.com
What Do We mean in Tai Chi by Rooting?
Every Thursday afternoon - a new episode. Subscribe for the whole series.
Find out more about learning Tai Chi in the 21st century with the teapotmonk
Yielding like Custard, Sticking like toffee. What does this mean in Tai Chi?
Every Thursday afternoon - a new episode
The Tao Te Ching says we should learn to Yield like a Portuguese custard tart, stick like gum on the bottom of your shoe...and of course Bruce Lee talks endlessly about water, flowing and being like a teapot my friend...
But how useful are these examples and how can we employ ancient concepts in the 21st century?
Find out more about applying Tai Chi lessons to the 21st century with the teapotmonk