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If you want to know, for example, from where the Chinese developed their unique system of martial arts, why the Chinese meditate and we in the west pray, what Tao is, or how ying and yang explains the way energy works, then this book is for you. 'Beyond the Closed Door' will help you to understand that Tai Chi is a physical and mental re-creation of Chinese culture.

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Beyond the Closed Door can be read and re-read on many levels; a well-written introduction to Chinese history and philosophy; a handbook of preliminary techniques in meditation; a guide to one of the oldest and most successful martial arts Jerusalem Post Magazine

This is no ordinary book on Tai Chi…Enjoy a dynamic consideration of the growth of Chinese Buddhism and the evolution of a movement transcending martial arts. Bookwatch, selected as Reviewers Choice

Beyond the Closed Door succeeds in introducing the mysteries of Chinese thought and culture, drawing together a vast array of sources, and piecing together the Chinese world view that is intelligible to Westerners. Readers already acquainted with the primary sources will appreciate the author’s syntheses and insights…Those trying to enter the gates of taijiquan would do well to open this portal on the East. The Journal of Asian Martial Arts

I found the stories and lessons in this book fascinating and would recommend it to anyone interested in the origins and sources of Taiji. Lenzie Williams, well-known teacher of Taiji

'Beyond the Closed Door' Contents
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Part 1 – The Canvas of Chinese Culture

• Chapter 1 The Transformation of Chinese Society
• Chapter 2 The Dynamic Universe: Yin/Yand and the Five Elements
• Chapter 3 Three Thinkers who Shaped the Chinese Mind: Confucius Lao Tzu, Chang Tzu

• Chapter 4 Chinese Buddhism: Its Growth and its Influence
• Chapter 5 Varieties of Taoism
• Chapter 6 Neo-Confuscianism: The Grand Synthesis

• Chapter 7 The Origins of T’ai Chi Ch’uan: Foundation and Founders
• Chapter 8 T’ai Chi and Push Hands – The Form and the Formless

• Chapter 9
   1) The Importance of Mind
   2) Intentionality
   3) The Idea of Chi
   4) Relax
   5) Balance
   6) Rootedness
   7) Change and Changlessness
   8) Flow and Continuity