Tai Chi, if being looked at from a Western point of view, can be best described as a moving form of yoga and meditation combined. Originally derived from martial arts, the slow, graceful movements also in places reflect the natural movements of animals and birds, as symbols or 'pictures', designed to focus the mind and breathing through a complex series of executions.

In Tai Chi, where the form is practised in slow continual fluidic movement, muscles and joints are in motion, and breathing is regulated as an integral part of this. The effect is a sedative upon the central nervous system which helps to stimulate improvements upon the body's other systems. It is calming and de-stressing, the movements themselves becoming physical poetry to a meditative process. When practised properly, Chi energy is increased, and one often feels a 'tingling' of fingers and toes, and a warming up of the body. The mind becomes clear, and relaxed. The movements give practically a means for motor control, balance etc. and can help posture and loosen tight muscles.

Long Yang Form is one of the longest forms in the tai chi pantheon, and for the first time on interactive media, Taichido.com are proud to introduce the full form as step-by step instruction.

Learn the Form at your own pace, look at it from different angles, read and listen to instruction, understand other aspects such as breathing and footwork, and gain an understanding of the wider view of tai chi.

Gary Robinson/Mark Allen