Within the unity of existence, there is always duality — a natural polarity known as Yin and Yang. Yin represents qualities such as the feminine, the passive, the soft, the night, and the moon. Yang is its counterpart, symbolising the masculine, the active, the firm, the day, and the sun. Nothing in the universe exists without its opposite; Yin and Yang are complementary forces that interact continuously to create balance and harmony.

Tai Chi draws directly from this dynamic interplay. Its method is to express harmony through movement, making it a profoundly deep and insightful training system. By applying the principles of Yin and Yang, Tai Chi cultivates a constant state of transformation — opening and closing, separating and combining, movement and stillness. These shifting states form the fundamental concepts of the art.

The name Tai Chi Chuan translates as “Grand Ultimate Fist,” pointing toward the natural order of the universe. Tai Chi reflects this grand ultimate principle — the universal force of which we are all a part. Through its philosophy, Tai Chi seeks to balance opposing energies, allowing Yin and Yang to fluctuate and return to equilibrium.

Nature is always in motion, and so is humanity. To follow the way of nature is to move in harmony with the grand ultimate rather than against it. Tai Chi teaches that extreme softness gives rise to true strength, and that natural breathing supports health, vitality, and inner calm.

Lao Tze said
 "Extreme softness in the universe can overcome extreme hardness in the universe"

Translation of the above is extreme softness is also extreme hardness. Extract from the Grandmasters book Tai Chi Revelations,(see recommended reading in club news).