Qi Gong

 Philosophy

These books I think all serious practitioners should have on their shelves!

 

 

1. Opening the Energy Gates is an excellent book for those interested in the practice and principles of Qi Gong.  A good beginner's book as well as for the advanced student.
2. The Way of Energy, so far, is the best book on standing meditation. The author also has excellent videos and more books.
3. Tao Te Ching is the source book for all Taoist related arts.  This and Chuang Tsu are considered among the older classics forming the arts of Qi Gong, Taiji, Bagua, and Xing Yi.  There are many translations available but the beauty of the calligraphy and photos make these my favorite.
4. Chuang Tsu was more mystical than Lao Tsu's Tao Te Ching.  Master Tchoung Ta Tchen would relate the stories in Chuang Tsu to proper practice and applications.

  

1. Every sincere Taiji instructor should have this book and read it often.  The chapters describe the various energies used in Taiji and Bagua push hands and applications.
2. Translated from a book said to be from the Yang family manuscripts this book has wonderful guidelines and
   explanations on qi gong theory and practice. 
3. This is a good book with several qi gong methods, the Yang 24 form, and Partner Taiji exercise.
4. A Taoist Source Book.  Covering many of the ancient classical writings.

Bagua
Zhang

BAGUA JOURNAL CD AVAILABLE!

The best collection of Bagua history, theory, styles, practice methods, and historical figures.  Published by by Dan Miller (High View Publications) is better than any book on the market and important for Bagua practitioners to have in their library.  All issues are now available on this CD from:
www.plumflower.com or 800-531-0693)  $34.95

1. Sun Xikun was a disciple of Cheng Ting Hua's oldest son, Cheng Yulong.  It's a required book in my library.
2. Emei Bagua Zhang is actually a version of Cheng Ting Hua Bagua.  This book contains the traditional Bagua Qi Gong, training methods, Changes, and a very detailed history of the lineage of the art.
3. Sun Lu Tang was the first one to write in detail of the internal arts.  Not only was his skill very high but his understanding was deep and he was able to put it in print.
4. Liu Xinhan was lineage holder of the Cheng Ting Hua Nine Palace Method.  This book contains history, Qi Gong, applications, and information about the special Bagua energies.
5. Bagua:  walking meditation and walking qi gong.

    

1. One of the first Bagua books to be written in English I'm so happy it's being reprinted.  It contains a chapter to Mr. Smith from one of his teachers describing how to practice correctly.  It's excellent.
2. This is actually a modification of Mr. Smith's first book listed #1.  The nice thing about this book it that it contains pictures of Master Wang Xujin's Bagua changes performed my Allen Pittman.

Classical Bagua Fighting System and Weapons
By Sifu J. Johnson & J. Crandall
$25.00
Excellent book with drawings of the various 'styles' of Bagua, history, and weaponry.   This book can be ordered directly from Smiling Tiger Marital Arts.

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Taiji
Quan

Taiji
Quan

Taiji
Quan

Taiji
Quan

 

1. A Study of Taijiquan is Sun Lu Tang's book on his Sun Style Taiji.  But more importantly it contains a complete history of his life and his teaching on correct practice.  It's and excellent source of history and information.
2. This Chen book contains the most detailed history and development of the Chen Family Taiji Quan as well as good information for correct practice.
3. Kuo Lien Ying taught a rare Yang Taiji method known as Kwang Ping Taiji which is suppose to be descended from Yang Ban Hou. A good book to expand your understanding of Taiji Quan.
4. Chen Wei-Ming was one of Yang Cheng Fu's most advanced students. This book contains questions he asked of Yang Cheng Fu to refine his practice. This book is required for our dojo library.
5. The Dao of Taijiquan is like an encyclopedia of the art.  It shows drawings of all the basic styles.

 

1. Master Cheng's Thirteen Chapters and Thirteen Treaties are different translations of the same book.  Both excellent.
2. This was Cheng's original book on his short form Taiji.  Look at the photos.  His postures are very crisp, clear, and open.
3. See #1 above
4. There Are No Secrets gives great insight into Master Cheng Man-Ching's art and life.  Excellent for anyone interested in mastering Taiji Quan.
5. Embrace Tiger Return to Mountain is a fun book about the Taoist philosophy and how it applies to Taiji.

1. Gilman's 101 Reflections on Tai Chi is one of my favorites.  The book gives excellent meditations to reflect upon during practice. It's a small book and easy to carry around with you.
2. This is an excellently put together book on the Taiji classics.  It should be in all Taiji libraries.
3. This is another great book covering the Taiji Classics by Master Liao.
4. Another book on Kwang Ping Taiji by Master Kuo's wife.
5. Tai Chi Touchstones contains many writings of the Yang Taiji Family in regard to practice and study. Yang Taiji practitioners should already have this one.

 

 

 

Aikido

Aikido

 

     

1. Though a Xing Yi book, this book is valuable for any internal stylist.  The first part of the book contains principles for correct practice.
2. Xing Yi Nei Gong are a series of internal exercises for long life, health, and strength.  This book explains the principles that govern Xing Yi Quan and show a detailed history of the great mastes.
3. Smith's Xing Yi book is a who's who of early Taiwan. 
4. Like all of Dr. Yang's books this one contains tons of information, basic drills, and partner work.