An Engineer is an ideal teacher of Classical Tai Chi

The science of Yin and Yang 

 

Interestingly, a 3-year tai chi student of another Tai Chi Style (Yang slow style) with a background in research gave such relevant commentary on Master Stephen Hwa in an Amazon book review. He was speaking about the book "Uncovering the Treasure" that Master Hwa wrote. By relevant, I mean he said, "...It reflects the author's engineering background...";

"... the book's solid conceptual framework should help clear some of the fog that seems to arise around tai chi chuan occasionally..."; "... Thank you, Dr. Hwa, for a scholarly and practical guide...".

 

 

He has never discussed it with me, but as an engineer, I am sure his analytical and problem-solving skills apply to Tai Chi. I know as a student I have been on numerous "buggy rides" of so called tai chi over many years.  I really appreciate his scientific approach. On the other hand, he noted in the book that he also liked the "...scientific approach..." that his teacher, Grandmaster Young Wabu, had. "...I was attracted to Young's teaching not only for its impact on my body's well-being but also for the logical, rational, and scientific approach...".

 

The book "Uncovering the Treasure" p. III,Introduction: 

"At first glance, it is very complex. Still, gradually, it becomes simpler because every element in it, no matter how minor, follows specific rules, forming a logical structure with calculated, scientific reasoning behind it. Every element is optimized toward two objectives: martial arts applications and health benefits. As a result, every aspect is tightly coupled with other components, even though they may appear unrelated."

 

• Related to the above paragraph, Master Hwa has taken a systematic approach to learning and teaching: Engineers are accustomed to breaking down complex systems into manageable components and understanding how they interact. Classical Tai Chi's emphasis on precise movement, structural integrity, and internal discipline can be seen as a system of interconnected elements, where each part influences the others. By applying an engineer's analytical mindset, one can better understand and optimize the relationships between these components.
  
• Mechanics and Kinematics: Engineers are trained to analyze the mechanics and kinematics of physical systems. Classical Tai Chi's slow, controlled movements of both "Round and Square Forms", can be viewed as a study in applied mechanics. This is where the practitioner manipulates the body's core with internal discipline of movement to achieve balance, coordination, and fluid motion.
• Whether they realize it, beginners pay the most attention to their hand movements, and to this teacher, it is evident. Watching their movement, I also see their heads turn so the hands can be seen. This is a DISCONNECT from their body. Faithful Classical Tai Chi must come from the core. Their eyes follow their hand postures, and they become disconnected from the body. Accurate Classical Tai Chi movements must instead come from the core, which drives the moves of the limbs.