This book grew out of a question one of the author's students asked. The answer proved to be longer than either teacher or student could have anticipated. As he looks at the complex art of 'Tai Chi', the author answers questions such as why, unlike in other martial arts, 'Tai Chi' has no gradings; how hard you should try; and how to make the most of your teacher. A wide range of material is covered, including fundamental points about the mechanics of movement and the 'energetic' aspects of practice, as well as the relationship between body, mind and spirit that emerges. The author also provides answers to questions that even experienced practitioners may not have thought to ask, such as what are the levels of self-defense in 'Tai Chi'? How do I refine and develop my 'Tai Chi'? What is the difference between method and technique? How do I put principles into practice? This insightful book covers all aspects of 'Tai Chi', answering questions that are beyond the scope of many classes. It will be of interest to anyone beginning 'Tai Chi' or Qi Gong, as well as to more experienced practitioners at all levels, practitioners of other martial arts, and friends and relatives of "Tai Chi" players who wonder what all the fuss and enthusiasm is about.

Chen style Taijiquan is the oldest of the five main Taijiquan styles. In this book, Master Jan Silberstorff, a leading Chen practitioner, shares his expertise and insights. He explains the background to Taijiquan, and its key principles, and gives the reader a true insight into the Chen system. Master Silberstorff sets this within the historical context of Taijiquan in China, its country of origin, and explains the martial, health and spiritual aspects of traditional Chen Taijiquan. He discusses the different Chen forms and the importance of each, as well as the place of competition and the effect on participants.The book also contains the complete sequences for both the empty hand and weapon forms. This accessible and comprehensive guide to Chen style Taijiquan is ideal for beginners and will also be useful to advanced practitioners wanting to deepen their practice.

This is the fully revised 2nd Edition of the popular book teaching how to Defend Against Attack. Based on over 1000 workshops completed and 25 years of experience in coaching students at all levels! With the aid of over 300 photographs showing attack reconstructions, Frank teaches with ease the safest forms of grappling, punching, kicking and blocking against individual, multiple and knife attacks. The manual will help to empower women to curb their fears. The techniques are explained simply and teach body mechanics and movement. Helping you achieve more confidence, alertness and overall fitness, whilst reducing stress and the fear of attack by preparing for it.

HEALTH / MARTIAL ARTS The techniques of Chi Nei Tsang evolved in Asia during an era when few physicians were available and people had to know how to heal themselves. Many people today have symptoms that modern medicine is not able to cure because a physical source for the problem is not easily found. The energies of negative emotions, stress, and tension--all common in modern life--and the weight of past illnesses accumulate in the abdominal center, causing energy blockages and congestion. When this occurs, all vital functions stagnate and myriad problems arise. By practicing the techniques of Chi Nei Tsang, this stagnation is removed and the vital organs surrounding the navel center are detoxified and rejuvenated. Master Chia teaches readers how to take full charge of their health using the self-healing techniques of Chi Nei Tsang. He offers fully illustrated exercises that show how to detoxify the internal organs and clear the energy (chi) channels throughout the body. He also presents methods for balancing emotions, managing stress, and observing the body in order to recognize, ameliorate, and prevent maladies before they become a problem. A student of several Taoist masters, MANTAK CHIA founded the Universal Healing Tao System in 1979 and has taught and certified tens of thousands of students and instructors from all over the world. He is the director of the Tao Garden Integrative Medicine Health Spa and Resort training center in northern Thailand and is the author of twenty-six books, including the bestselling The Multi-Orgasmic Man.

From the author of "The Secret Art of Seamm Jasani" comes the definitive guide to the ancient defense-meditation art of Boabom.
The success of "The Secret Art of Seamm Jasani" by Asanaro surprised many who wondered whether a little-known Tibetan movement system would be able to compete with yoga, Spinning classes, and tai chi. After several printings and thousands of Seamm Jasani converts, the secret is out. Seamm Jasani schools have cropped up across the country, thanks to the popularity of Asanaro's book, and more people than ever are discovering Seamm Jasani. For students eager to continue learning about ancient Tibetan body movement arts, or for anyone curious about cutting-edge strength and spiritual training, The Secret Art of Boabom is a must read.
A cross between martial arts and yoga, Boabom is an ancient system of relaxation, meditation, breathing, and defense originating in pre-Buddhist Tibet. The movements contained within the collective "Arts" of Boabom are designed to develop vitality and internal energy, as well as mind and body balance, which are achieved through movements of defense, self-healing, relaxation, and meditation. Boabom provides quick relief from stress, and improves focus and confidence, as well as physical condition and mental well-being.
"The Secret Art of Boabom" includes detailed descriptions and more than three hundred instructional drawings of Boabom movements, as well as information about its positive effects. But "The Secret Art of Boabom" is more than just a how-to book. Combining the thrill of adventure nonfiction, the depth of history, and the profundity of philosophy along with the practicality of a guidebook, Asanaro offers thiscompanion to those eager to explore the secrets of ancient Tibet in order to improve their health and well-being.

Born in 1935 Grandmaster Byong Yu was raised in Korea and later moved to the United States in 1964. Overcoming physical disabilities and homelessness, Grandmaster Yu took the martial arts tournament circuit by storm and eventually attained the highest rank of black belt (9th degree). He has been awarded numerous trophies and attained the prestigious Martial Arts World Federation Lifetime Achievement Award. In this, his first book, the reader will learn about his incredible journey. Grandmaster Byong explains the Golden Keys to Life - you do not have to physically practice martial arts in order to benefit from these lessons. This is a guidebook to discovering your true destiny and conquering every obstacle that stands in your path.

This moment of perfect clarity that is the force behind all the traditional Japanese arts--from archery to flower arranging--is celebrated here in Dave Lowry's exploration of the common principles shared by calligraphy and the martial arts.
Forty-two examples of Lowry's calligraphy, accompanied by his essays, show how the way of the brush reflects the strategic principles of the way of the sword. Each calligraphy represents a term from the martial arts--such as "do, " the way, or "wa, "harmony. The accompanying text amplifies our understanding of the term, what it meant to Japanese warriors, and what it means to practitioners of calligraphy and the martial arts today. What becomes clear is that these two seemingly unrelated disciplines actually partake of the same profound elemental spirit.

Resolved to give up spying for good, Mrs Pollifax can't stop herself agreeing to carry a small object to an agent in Thailand, and get one in return. The moment she lands, Mrs P. is horrified to find her contact dead and her husband kidnapped. The next thing she knows, she's tramping through the unfamiliar Thai countryside, led by a curious fellow who may be trying to help her find her husband. Or he may have other, more sinister plans ... Armed with only an open mind and a little karate, Mrs Pollifax is the most unlikely and lovable of international spies. What readers are saying: "Love, love, love Mrs Pollifax. Ms Gilman has an extraordinary way of keeping you on the edge of your seat and turning the pages of her books." "How can a sweet little old lady get into so much trouble? Mrs Pollifax is a gem and a hoot!" "A book that gives you a big smile on every page. I'm looking forward to my next Mrs Pollifax adventure." "Who wouldn't fall in love with a senior citizen who wears absurd hats, pushes the book cart at the hospital, and knows karate?" "I first read the Mrs Pollifax books when I was a little girl and I keep coming back to read the books again and again." "Read it, it's the best thing you can do for yourself. It's like a reminder of the zest for life." Editorial reviews: "Mrs Pollifax is an enchantress." New York Times "Mrs Pollifax gives Agatha Christie's Miss Marple a rival to reckon with." Toronto Star "Filled with adventures-and misadventures-but through it all Mrs Pollifax is triumphant." Booklist "Absorbing and worthwhile ... You won't want to put the book down." Portland Telegram "The pace never flags, bolstered by the shrewd Mrs P. and a host of well-defined characters who all work their surprising wiles." Publishers Weekly "Should delight you whether you're looking for smiles or thrills." New York Times Book Review "All's right with the world as long as Mrs Pollifax is part of it." Mobile Register

A clear introduction to Taiji, a slow and rhythmical martial art, this visual guide shows how it can be used as a 'moving meditation' that bestows strength, vigour and longevity. The book focuses on helping people apply the principles of the Taiji practice by offering a short introduction to its history and philosophy, as well as a primer on its general practices as established by the International Wushu Federation. Divided into five chapters, it includes an easy-to-learn warm-up, stances, hand techniques, steps, breathing, basic moves and the four Forms that are usually learned to receive a black belt in the art. With a growing focus on alternative ways of improving general health and well-being, Taiji as Moving Meditation is the perfect guide for those wanting to enhance focus and peace of mind.

When he was younger, Matthew Polly travelled to the Shaolin Temple in China and spent two years training with the order of monks who had invented the ancient art of kung fu. 15 years later, his weakness for Chinese takeout and Jack Daniel's had taken its toll. Now firmly into middle age and far removed from his past athletic triumphs, Polly decided to risk it all one last time. Out of shape and over the hill, he jumped headlong into the world of MMA. Polly chronicles his gruelling yet redeeming two-year journey through an often misunderstood sport.

The study of budo, or Japanese martial arts for self-cultivation, is a lifelong path toward achieving perfect balance in body, mind, and spirit. Here, Dave Lowry, who has pursued that path for over forty years, addresses the myriad issues, vagaries, and inconsistencies that arise for students of karate-do, judo, kendo, aikido, iaido and other Japanese martial arts--classical and modern--as their training develops, including:
- What students and teachers should expect from each other
- The meaning of rank
- The importance of cardiovascular fitness in the martial arts
- How to correctly and sensitively practice with someone less experienced than yourself
- How to practice as you age
- The responsibilities that come with seniority and increasing skill
- The importance of etiquette and decorum in budo
- How to train with children

Lowry also gives practical advice on improving structural integrity in posture and movement; focusing under stress; stances and preparatory actions before engaging with an opponent; and telling a good teacher from a bad one. Both beginning and advanced students of Japanese martial arts will appreciate Lowry's take on the real issues and experiences that they encounter in practice.

The charismatic form of healing called qigong, based on meditative breathing exercises, has achieved enormous popularity in China during the last two decades. Qigong served a critical social organizational function, as practitioners formed new informal networks, sometimes on an international scale, at a time when China was shifting from state-subsidized medical care to for-profit market medicine. The emergence of new psychological states deemed to be deviant led the Chinese state to "medicalize" certain forms while championing scientific versions of qigong. By contrast, qigong continues to be promoted outside China as a traditional healing practice. Breathing Spaces brings to life the narratives of numerous practitioners, healers, psychiatric patients, doctors, and bureaucrats, revealing the varied and often dramatic ways they cope with market reform and social changes in China.

Here is a collection of ancient Chinese maxims on strategy, battlefield tactics, and deception - in the spirit of such classics as 'The Art of War' and 'The Book of Five Rings' - made fresh and relevant with contemporary examples and explanation.

Many people will suffer from depression at some time in their lives. New research shows that Qigong, a traditional Chinese practice, can be an effective treatment for depression and can provide a good alternative or supplement to medication in some cases. Frances Gaik explains the basics of what Qigong is and why it is effective for depression, and shows the reader how to make use of Qigong to rise from the darkness of depression and regain strength and motivation in life. Based on the same principles as Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qigong works by promoting the movement of health-giving energy along the meridians of the body. The author shows how the practical application of Qigong can radically improve health and wellbeing, and provides a treatment plan, including Qigong exercises. Encouraging the reader to identify their problems and take action, Dr. Frances Gaik gives practical advice that will help anyone with depression to improve their mental health. Managing Depression with Qigong provides a guide to an effective and increasingly recognised form of treatment that will be invaluable to people with depression and their families.

The traditional arts of Taijiquan and Qi Gong are sophisticated expressions of Chinese martial. health and spiritual culture. Rooted in China's ancient past they are still practised by many people in China today to achieve good health, mental well-being and a long and active life; commonly called `Eternal Spring'. This book, written for a Western audience, explains the essential theories and strategies of Taijiquan and Qi Gong in an insightful and accessible way. It expounds their value in our daily lives as a most effective means of combating the stresses, strains and illnesses that are now so much a part of our modern lifestyle and positions these two disciplines as the most comprehensive strategies for health, happiness and rejuvenation currently available. Michael W. Acton guides the reader through core concepts with an insight and wisdom borne out of many years of practice, study and teaching. This book will be of use to anyone who is already on this path or who is interested in self-development, health and well-being or the fascinating philosophy and ideas that underpin these traditional Chinese disciplines.

Qigong is a traditional Chinese movement practice that is most often done to maintain health or to relieve specific illnesses. Here, Sat Chuen Hon, a master teacher and practitioner of traditional Chinese medicine and Taoist healing arts, presents a system of six gentle yet invigorating exercises, along with complementary meditations and vocalizations, which can improve overall health and increase energy. Hon includes both the physical exercises and the accompanying meditations and vocalizations, which deepen the healing effects of the practices.
Hon is a warm and humorous guide who makes the practice and philosophy of qigong accessible and relevant. The text includes step-by-step illustrations and is sprinkled with stories and anecdotes from the author's twenty-two years of practice.

Invincible Warrior tells the fascinating story of the life of Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969), whose quest for the true meaning of warriorship lead to the creation of the martial art called Aikido, "The Art of Peace." Ueshiba -- whose name means "abundant peace" -- is considered by many to be one of the greatest martial artists who ever lived. His documented ability to disarm any attacker, throw a dozen men simultaneously, and down and pin opponents without touching them has accorded his life legendary status.

Invincible Warrior presents the real story behind Morihei's achievement, illuminating the man and his message. Stevens describes the people, events, and ideas that influenced Ueshiba's lifelong spiritual quest, which culminated in the development of the unique teachings of Aikido. Illustrated with hundreds of photographs of Morihei in action and filled with revealing anecdotes about his life and times, Invincible Warrior also offers valuable discussion of the Founder's conception of Aikido as a path of harmony and love, unifying body and mind, self and others, humans and the universe.

Donn Draeger was one of the most famous and well-respected martial artists of the twentieth century, and he was a pioneer in bringing Asian martial arts study to the West. Here, he illuminates the compelling historical, political, and philosophical events that gave rise to the development of the budo arts. The classical "budo," or "martial ways" are not combat systems like their forerunner, "bujutsu," or "martial arts"; nor are they sports like modern "judo, kendo, "or "karate." They are first and foremost spiritual disciplines, whose ultimate goal, achieved through the most rigorous mental and physical training, is self-realization in the tradition of Zen Buddhism. The author details the history, philosophy, and methods of a variety of these "martial ways," some using weapons and some weaponless, and reveals how they evolved from their combative roots. The book includes fascinating artwork from classical sources, and archival photographs of modern budo masters in action.

A groundbreaking self-defense and fitness book for women by a ballerina-turned-self-defense expert. Learn how to become your own weapon of self-defense and fitness so that you can create and target your best life.

After ballerina Avital Zeisler was savagely attacked as a young woman, she lived in fear—until she took action to train with experts in self-defense from around the world. Seeking a method specific to women and using Krav Maga as a base, she created her own self-defense program: the Soteria Method. It was an immediate sensation, and is now in demand by everyone from corporate executives to Hollywood stars—such as Amanda Seyfried, Megan Boone, and Keri Russell, to name a few—who seek her classes both for the self-defense and for the intense, body-sculpting workout.

Unique and empowering, Weapons of Fitness will help get you into incredible shape—and just might save your life.

Traces the roots and history of the martial art which was developed by Brazilian slaves and combines dance, play, ritual, and self-defense.

Introduces the history, basic moves, and terminology of this martial art.

With a wealth of information for novice and advanced students, this book examines the fighting techniques of Tai Chi Chuan, including the martial applications for each movement of the form. The two-person fighting set, Tai Chi fighting tactics, and Tai Chi Pushing Hands training is also included. Unique among Tai Chi books, this volume reveals the martial essence of Tai Chi that most other books ignore. Clearly explained and illustrated, Tai Chi Chuan Martial Applications is a must for those who want to expand their knowledge and add depth and realism to their training. *Discover Chin Na, cavity strikes and takedowns hidden in the Tai Chi form.*Improve your Pushing Hands with martial applications.*Learn the unique Tai Chi Ball practice for Jing training.*Sharpen your Tai Chi and self defense skills.

Introduces the history, basic moves, and terminology of this martial art.