RECOMMENDED READING
High quality reading material about Tai Chi and related internal arts can be hard to find. If you’re interested in learning more, we highly recommend the following books.
T’ai Chi Classics (translated by Waysun Liao)
Although sometimes a challenging read, this is a fundamental resource for serious Tai Chi practitioners.
The Tao Te Ching, by Lao Tzu (translated by Stephen Mitchell)
Lao Tzu’s book is a foundational text in the philosophy of Daoism, and many of its core principles inform Tai Chi. This translation by Stephen Mitchell is widely regarded as the most beautiful and accessible available.
The Tai Chi Book: Refining and Enjoying a Lifetime of Practice, by Robert Chuckrow
This is an essential and highly readable text discussing almost every aspect of Tai Chi. Chuckrow studied with Professor Cheng, who developed the Yang Style Short Form that we teach in our classes.
Tai Chi Dynamics: Principles of Natural Movement, Health, and Self-Development, by Robert Chuckrow
Covers a variety of topics for intermediate and advanced students. The author's deep knowledge of physics informs every page.
Tai Chi Walking: A Low-Impact Path to Better Health, by Robert Chuckrow
Chuckrow brings the principles of Tai Chi to something we do every day: walking.
The Harvard Medical School Guide to Tai Chi: Twelve Weeks to a Healthy Body, Strong Heart, and Sharp Mind, by Peter Wayne
The author, a researcher at Harvard Medical School, discusses the growing scientific data on the positive effects of Tai Chi.
There Are No Secrets: Professor Cheng Man Ch’ing and His T’ai Chi Chuan, by Wolf Lowenthal
Lowenthal also studied with Professor Cheng. The book provides insight into the process of learning and practicing Tai Chi.
Gateway to the Miraculous: Further Explorations in the Tao of Cheng Man Ch’ing, by Wolf Lowenthal
This is a follow up to There Are No Secrets.
Tai Chi Touchstones: Yang Family Secret Transmissions, by Douglas Wile
Wile provides important context on the Yang family. The book is out of print, so affordable copies can be hard to find.
Daoist Nei Gong: The Philosophical Art of Change, by Damo Mitchell
This book is a clear and informative text on energy work. It explains from a Daoist perspective what goes on inside the body during the practice of Neigong and Qigong.
Daoist Nei Gong for Women: The Art of the Lotus and the Moon, by Roni Edlund and Damo Mitchell
The essential guide to Neigong and Qigong for women.
Heavenly Streams: Meridian Theory in Nei Gong, by Damo Mitchell
An even more in-depth exploration of the internal workings of the body’s energy system.
Opening the Energy Gates of Your Body: Qigong for Lifelong Health, by Bruce Frantzis
This is a classic in the practice of Qigong from an expert in the energy arts.
The Four Dragons: Clearing the Meridians and Awakening the Spine in Nei Gong, by Damo Mitchell
The author provides a clear and authoritative explanation of the practice of Dao Yin.
The Way of Energy: Mastering the Chinese Art of Internal Strength with Chi Kung Exercise, by Lam Kam-Chuen
Another accessible and comprehensive guide to Qigong.
Mindfulness in Plain English, by Bhante Gunaratana
The author provides a clear and now classic introduction to mindfulness and meditation.