On Tuesday, Edinburgh held the honour of hosting Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei. Master Chen is a 19th generation member of the "royal family" of Taijiquan and 11th generation direct successor and keeper of Chen Style Tai Chi. The gravity of the situation is difficult to comprehend, but the truth of the matter is that it was a fairly important moment in the history of Tai Chi in the UK. GM Chen has visited the UK previously but has never been as far north as the Scottish Capital. His arrival in town is demonstrative of the hard work people such as Li Ho (my friend and colleague) and others have put into the development of Chen in Scotland. GM Chen arrived along with Master Kuang. I've had the opportunity to train with Master Kuang in China, he is a Northern region push hand champion in China and a student of my Master Liming Yue. He has gone on to become a Master in his own right and that gives me hope albeit a bit wishful thinking :)
Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei is almost 70 years old, but he moves with the grace, poise and power of someone much less advanced in years. His life has been devoted to movement and the spiritual acquisition that implies. His energy release, which is a very important factor in Chen style Tai Chi is tantamount to the sonic boom Guile delivers in the Street Fighter video games. Perhaps this short video doesn't give justice but GM Chen Zhengei's presence is quite something to behold up close.
Chen Zhenglei in Edinburgh
He spoke favourably about Edinburgh, he said he was in awe of its beauty. He went on to speak about the importance of Tai Chi. Specifically the three main reasons it is important to learn. A study had taken place at the Ivy league Universities in the US to establish just what it is that is required in a sport to facilitate well-being. It seems on this academic level all other Olympic sports had fallen short. GM Chen identified three factors:
1. It must be a movement that can be practised in Leisure time
2. The movement must consider the natural oxygen process
3. The movement must consider longevity of practise
Simple guidance and wisdom only an aged Master can highlight!
Later in the week I attended a workshop called Strength and Mobility for the Combat Athlete. I wholeheartedly accept that I am no longer an athlete, but my years of pain and sacrifice justified my presence on the workshop. It too was enlightening and expansive, teaching me that strength is a skill that can be improved upon given time and correct technique. I learned many drills around mobility, strength and dexterity each of which will help me develop. Understanding your baselines as a human, ie what you can and can't do, stands you in great stead for you realising just what it is you are capable of.
It's not mystical, it is about self reflection. Identifying what you can do to improve, even listening to people who have done it for you is key. There is a wealth of knowledge out there and it is not just for a privileged few. It's for anyone and everyone. I can only invite you to come and train but you have to RSVP. There are no short cuts, life requires movement.
