Tai Chi

WELCOME TO QIBELLY TAI CHI
Chen Style Hun Yuan Tai Chi Quan

A better way of movement. A better way of living.

Applying ancient wisdoms to the here and now, Yin and Yang is ever present.

Paul Lara is a 20th Generation TaiJi lineage holder under Master Zhang Yu Fei. He studied with Master Zhang for 2 years while living in Beijing, China.

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Tai Chi Explained 

Trained simultaneously with QiGong, TaiJi forms focus on strengthening the body, increasing overall flexibility, and sharpening mental awareness. From soft and fluid, to solid and powerful, QiBelly Tai Chi gives one the tools needed to address daily stressors with proficiency and naturalness.

QiBelly Tai Chi

aka 

Hun Yuan San Shou 

aka 

Chen Si Xin Yi Hun Yuan TaiJi Quan

QiBelly Tai Chi is based on the orginal Chen Xin Jia form (New Frame) that consisted of 83 movements. Desigend by my Grandteacher, Master Feng Zhi Qiang this style of Tai Chi consists of both 1st Road and 2nd Road (Yi Lu & Er Lu) practices.

Traditionally, Chen Style Tai Chi is characterized by large, deep stances that are typically more dynamic in nature. However, Yi Lu (First Road), is primarily focused on soft, fluid movements that create healthy alignment and circulation. Yi Lu forms are what people most commonly associate with Tai Chi. Yi Lu comes before Er Lu and must be understood fully before moving onto the latter.

Er Lu (Second Road) Forms are more martial based with an emphasis on the transitioning between “hard and soft” applications. This advanced aspect of Tai Chi is considered to be Kung Fu. Explosive and vibrant, this level of the training is quite demanding.

In terms of health, the training has a very valuable effect on overall adaptability. The benefits it creates, allows one the ability to react appropriately in accordance with any situation. Stressors come at us in varying degrees of intensity. Training Tai Chi in its full capacity should give one the tools needed to address daily stressors with proficiency and naturalness.

Ultimately, Hun Yuan Tai Chi Quan cultivates the body, mind and spirit. It involves philosophical study and dedicated physical practice, thereby making it an ideal addition to any individual’s healthy lifestyle.

Redefining Kung Fu

In China, the term Kung Fu (Gong Fu) literally means “a skill acquired over time”. Mechanics that work on cars, for example, can have Kung Fu. The translation in terms of daily living, gives Kung Fu a more well rounded perspective. Day by day, month by month, over the years, we train a skill that we refine and apply to various aspects of our life.

Kung Fu is not just about martial arts. Although “fighting spirit” is a major piece of the pie, there is much more to the practice. Kung Fu is a discipline. One that promotes adaptability and longevity.

Heart & Mind Six Combination Fist

The QiBelly Tai Chi lineage can be defined as Chen Shi Xin Yi Hun Yuan Tai Chi Quan. Meaning, that along with Tai Chi, there is also Xin Yi Lui He Quan (Heart & Mind Six Combination Fist). Quite different to Tai Chi, yet complementary to the overall practice, Xin Yi is another internal style of Kung Fu from northern China that takes its shape from animal forms.

In this art, six combinations must be in accordance. Internally there are three, externally there are three. The Xin (heart) and Yi (intent), the Yi and Qi, the Qi and Li (power), these are the three internal combinations. The hand and the foot, the shoulder and the hip, the elbow and the knee, these are the three external combinations. Internal and external are one, these become the six combinations.

As Defined by Master Zhang Yu Fei

‘When Xin is stirred it creates Yi, when Yi moves it’s called fist (boxing). As Yi changes Xin follows, though Yi is born from Xin. To be utilized perfectly, they’re as one.

So from Xin there is feeling, Yi must then respond. Yi acts and so Qi must follow. It is said Xin is the ruler, Qi is the command given, the hands and feet are the subjects.

Of the actions of Xin Yi, any occurrence is handled with composure. When the moment for change comes, act as fast as a lightning bolt. The rulers command is given, the subjects comply in unison. This is called De Xin Ying Shou (from the heart all things are easily attained).

Body methods include: chicken leg, dragon body, bear shoulder, eagle claw, tiger stare, and thunder sound. When proceeding, it is like the tiger pouncing. When grasping it is like the eagle catching.

The internal power of a Xin Yi practitioner comes from anywhere at anytime, though in expression there is shape. It is difficult to discuss, but this theory is solid. So the skillful practitioner’s Qi will be abundant. The heart moves and Qi follows, Qi moves and strength manifests. These principals are essential.

To sum up, when utilizing the three characteristics, one slight move in combat is like a tiger extending and grasping, but the grasp is not seen. Nothing can escape. Like a dragon using it’s strength, but the strength is not seen. Even a mountain cannot stop it.’ – Master Zhang Yu Fei

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