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This Is Tai Chi: 50 Essential Questions and Answers Paperback – November 23, 2011

by Paul Read (Author)
4.3 out of 5 stars 28 ratings
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Tai Chi is a wonderful art to learn, but for many beginners the different styles and classes to choose between are confusing and unclear. Many books promote one style or school over another, one teacher or learning method above another. Most beginners however, simply want straightforward answers to simple questions. 'This is Tai Chi: 50 Essential Questions and Answers' sets out to give all beginners just that. 

'This is Tai Chi' is divided into nine distinct subjects including: The Basics, History, Tai Chi as a Martial Art, Health benefits, Energy sources, Form Practice, Styles, and applications. Each subject is comprised of a series of "Essential"questions for the beginner:
What is Tai Chi? What do the words mean? What are the origins of the art? Why are there different styles and what does this mean for me? Is Tai Chi a martial art or health practice? Will I have to wear a uniform? How best can I learn the Form? How long does it take to learn? And many more...

This easily readable book, full of anecdotes, facts and humour, answers all the questions you will have about this ancient art, and is all you need to help you decide if Tai Chi is right for you.

With over 20 years experience of teaching Tai Chi (Including monthly classes for absolute beginners), Paul Read writes in a simple yet insightful way that will help you understand the basic principles of this noble art and how to apply them to your daily life.

This is Tai Chi: 50 Essential Questions and Answers is the ultimate introduction and guide to starting a class of Tai Chi. If you are looking for an overview of Tai Chi before starting a class, then make sure you read this book first.
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Previous slide of product details
  1. Book 1 of 1
    The Tai Chi Trilogy
  2. Print length
    114 pages
  3. Language
    English
  4. Publication date
    November 23, 2011
  5. Dimensions
    5.83 x 0.26 x 8.27 inches
  6. ISBN-10
    147094023X
  7. ISBN-13
    978-1470940232
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Editorial Reviews

From the Author

  •  50 Questions and Answers forms part of the Tai Chi Trilogy -  and looks specifically at the basic questions we all have as learners of Tai Chi. Although it is the second book in the trilogy, it is a good starting point to gain a general overview and picture of where we are heading and why with this ancient art. Sometimes we all need to go back to the basics to remind ourselves why we do the things we do. 
  • The Manual of Bean Curd Boxing is the 1st book in the Tai Chi Trilogy and is aimed at everyone who has a curiosity about how Tai Chi and Taoism can be applied to our everyday lives. The fundamental aim is to show how by learning to leave things be (to step back, observe and await the ideal moment) we can live a life more fuller and more spontaneous. Bean Curd Boxing shows a new way for the 21st Century Warrior.
  • The Final book: Ways of Learning - is aimed at the more practised student and learner of the martial arts. It is the culmination of the 3 books and focuses on how, as learners and teachers of these noble arts, we can take that next step to turning our art into something revolutionary in our lives. If you we to look afresh at this world, then we do not need anyone to tell us what to think, but rather show us how to think: Ways of Learning.

From the Back Cover

50 Essential Questions and AnswersBefore starting a Tai Chi class it is always advisable to ask questions: What is Tai Chi? How long does it take to learn? What benefits can I expect from my practice? Why are there different styles and names? Will I be learning a system of self-defence or a system of meditation?All these questions are important and all need answering.After listening to the essential questions that beginners have consistently asked over the years, Paul Read has compiled the 50 best answers in this concise and informative book for beginners of Tai Chi. By exploring the basics of this fascinating art in a Questions and Answer fashion, readers can easily dip into the sections that are most approriate in order to discover, not only what Tai Chi really is, but its value and place in this hectic and fast paced century.

Product details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Lulu.com
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ November 23, 2011
  • Edition ‏ : ‎ First Edition
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 114 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 147094023X
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1470940232
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 5.3 ounces
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.83 x 0.26 x 8.27 inches
  • Book 1 of 1 ‏ : ‎ The Tai Chi Trilogy
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.3 out of 5 stars 28 ratings

About the author

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Paul Read

Paul Read

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Paul has been practising the martial arts since he was knee high to a grasshopper.

Given he's still not much taller, he continues his studies, focusing on the extraordinary practice and philosophy of Tai Chi. Having worked through numerous styles and schools he eventually created the teapot temple from which he produces mould-breaking online 21st Century Tai Chi courses, writes books for those searching for an amusing alternative to the norm, and podcasts and videos to antagonise his enemies.

All of this has failed to alleviate his restlessness and so he fidgets his way back and forth between the Uk and Spain in search of good coffee, good conversation and fresh vegetables.

You can track him down easily as the teapotmonk anywhere - unless he hasn't paid a bill somewhere in which case it may prove more difficult.

Customer reviews

4.3 out of 5 stars
28 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find the book provides a valuable introduction to Tai Chi concepts, with clear and easy-to-read content. They appreciate the well-balanced humor throughout the text.

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IntroductionClarityHumorReadability
7 customers mention "Introduction"7 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the book's introduction to Tai Chi concepts, finding it valuable and informative, with one customer noting it addresses questions commonly asked by students.

"...He does give us some basics and good reminders if you've been doing Tai Chi a while...." Read more

"...to the central concepts of Tai Chi (or Taijiquan), aimed at answering questions for the novice but also useful for more advanced practitioners to see..." Read more

"...Together with his Podcast, there is a wealth of information, not just for beginners. Does the exact style matter?..." Read more

"...He answers questions that my students often ask, but in an extremely clear, down to earth and understandable way...." Read more

5 customers mention "Clarity"5 positive0 negative

Customers find the book clear and easy to read, with one customer noting it uses metaphors to help visualize principles.

"...Paul helps explain some terminology for newbies (rooting, sticking etc) and reminds us in his easy going style to practice, have fun, and keep a..." Read more

"...He does an excellent job of addressing in a practical and concise way certain important but sometimes controversial topics such as the history of..." Read more

"...students often ask, but in an extremely clear, down to earth and understandable way. He uses many metaphors to help the reader visualize principles...." Read more

"Entertaining viewpoint on tai chi he sensual's. Easy-to-read great sense of humor regarding a subject that is often presented in a 'stuffy' manner..." Read more

4 customers mention "Humor"4 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the book's balanced humor.

"Paul gives us the basics of Tai Chi laid out in an easy read with a lot of humor...." Read more

"...The author treats in a lighthearted but simultaneously serious manner all of the elements of Tai Chi study and practice...." Read more

"...Easy-to-read great sense of humor regarding a subject that is often presented in a 'stuffy' manner to newcomers." Read more

"Excellent book, with insight and humor well balanced throughout. Makes me want to take a Tai Chi class with the author...." Read more

3 customers mention "Readability"3 positive0 negative

Customers find the book readable.

"...Well worth the read." Read more

"This book is a great read (pun intended) whether you are new to Tai Chi or a seasoned practitioner...." Read more

"Excellent book, with insight and humor well balanced throughout. Makes me want to take a Tai Chi class with the author...." Read more

Top reviews from the United States

  • Kindle Customer
    5.0 out of 5 stars Awesome Tai Chi Mentor, Humorous Truths
    Reviewed in the United States on March 1, 2012
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    Paul gives us the basics of Tai Chi laid out in an easy read with a lot of humor. With so many stuffy books written about the 'secrets' of Tai Chi, Paul gives us the secrets by telling us there are no secrets, Just a love of the art and some good old fashioned practice. He does give us some basics and good reminders if you've been doing Tai Chi a while. I shared a page with my Tai Chi Master teacher and he laughed his tail off, told me to keep reading, Paul as a true master. When you finish you've learned that yes we can do Tai Chi in special slippers, or bare feet, shoes or socks. We won't get better just because we wear special Tai Chi shoes - it's the details in the form and stance that matter. Paul helps explain some terminology for newbies (rooting, sticking etc) and reminds us in his easy going style to practice, have fun, and keep a sense of humor about Tai Chi, and more importantly, ourselves. In reading you get the feeling that Tai Chi is just part of this Bean Curd Boxers passion for life and his philosophy is deeply rooted in Taoism. I'm off to buy his other book now.
    3 people found this helpful
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  • Carlo
    4.0 out of 5 stars Valuable intro to concepts of Tai Chi practice
    Reviewed in the United States on August 17, 2014
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    This is a uniquely valuable intro to the central concepts of Tai Chi (or Taijiquan), aimed at answering questions for the novice but also useful for more advanced practitioners to see. The author treats in a lighthearted but simultaneously serious manner all of the elements of Tai Chi study and practice. This includes the martial, health, and philosophical aspects of the complete art. He does an excellent job of addressing in a practical and concise way certain important but sometimes controversial topics such as the history of Tai Chi. That said, I thought his treatment of Tai Chi's historical evolution to be a little haphazard and his discussion of Qi to be rather curt; in the latter case, mention of the modern concept of Qi as bioelectricity would have been helpful to the reader's understanding.

    This book fills a gap in published works on Tai Chi, providing a relatively short yet fulfilling orientation to its different components and greater meaningfulness. The author's style is both modern and respectful of tradition, and he shows a mature understanding of Tai Chi and its relation to one's life. Well worth the read.
    Helpful
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  • Florida Mike
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great Introduction to Tai Chi, from a Distinctly Different Direction
    Reviewed in the United States on May 26, 2014
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    I've read five of Paul's books. This is among my favorites. Some of the questions posed are ones I myself asked more than 20 years ago; some of the other questions I should have asked. I did buy Tai Chi Slippers, but not the Silk Suit - yet! Together with his Podcast, there is a wealth of information, not just for beginners. Does the exact style matter? How does one choose a good Tai Chi class? What if the instructor...? I stumbled upon this book searching for Cheng Man Ching, and came up with an interview by Paul. I was intrigued, since Cheng had died nearly 40 years ago. After I read the interview about four times, I started to "get" a bit about this Paul Read fellow.

    This is not an introduction to a particular style, nor does Paul try to tell you which is right for you. He does point you in the direction of how you can do that for yourself. And while I believe Lao Tzu might not approve of Paul's "reverence" for an authentic style, I'll bet Chuang Tzu would.
    Helpful
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  • Shana
    5.0 out of 5 stars A must read for anyone interested in Tai Chi...especially relative new comers
    Reviewed in the United States on September 15, 2015
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    Although new to tai chi within the last four years, I recently became certified to teach a program adapted to fall prevention for seniors. Paul's book could not have come to my attention at a more perfect time. He answers questions that my students often ask, but in an extremely clear, down to earth and understandable way. He uses many metaphors to help the reader visualize principles. His creative approach provides me with new language and ideas not only for my own practice and self development, but to share with my classes where the average age is 70+. Thank you, Paul...I look forward to reading the next installment.
    Helpful
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  • Marcel Sebald
    3.0 out of 5 stars Thin
    Reviewed in the United States on March 7, 2022
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    This book is advertised as short but it is indeed thin, too thin. The author should have tried harder and given us more.
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  • dale
    4.0 out of 5 stars Easy-to-read great sense of humor regarding a subject that is often ...
    Reviewed in the United States on June 5, 2016
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    Entertaining viewpoint on tai chi he sensual's. Easy-to-read great sense of humor regarding a subject that is often presented in a 'stuffy' manner to newcomers.
    Helpful
     Report
  • BC
    5.0 out of 5 stars You will become a follower of the Teapot Monk!
    Reviewed in the United States on March 18, 2012
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    This book is a great read (pun intended) whether you are new to Tai Chi or a seasoned practitioner. I purchased this book to help answer questions that my students often ask, and it does not disappoint! Often the answers are tongue-in-cheek, but that adds to the charm of the book. A caveat - do not expect to learn any Tai Chi form, since that is not its intention. I recommend this to all beginners who want to better understand the big mystery called Tai Chi Chuan.
    2 people found this helpful
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  • Adam Cloutier
    5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent book, with insight and humor well balanced throughout
    Reviewed in the United States on October 20, 2014
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    Excellent book, with insight and humor well balanced throughout. Makes me want to take a Tai Chi class with the author. Perhaps someday he may take the plunge and produce an online class or dvd.
    Helpful
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Top reviews from other countries

  • Mr Julian M Ryland
    5.0 out of 5 stars A great book to get if you're thinking about starting Tai ...
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on April 16, 2017
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    A great book to get if you're thinking about starting Tai Chi. It'll answer a lot of your questions and get you thinking about what you want from Tai Chi. If you enjoy this book definitely get The manual of Bean Curd Boxing as well. It goes a little deeper into certain aspects of Tai Chi and it's applications in everyday life. Both are written with a good sense of humour so they're far from being dry and boring.
    Report
  • Debbie J
    4.0 out of 5 stars A simple honest easy to read book.
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on May 9, 2014
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    I liked the format and the simple informational answers to the questions. I will defiantly buy another of the teapotmOnks books. The only reason way I did not give it a higher rating was because I wanted more questions and answers. There's always more in the Tai Chi world of learning. Why stop at 50? Thanks, Debbie J
    Report
  • Miss Julie M. Phillips
    5.0 out of 5 stars Brilliant
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on November 10, 2013
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    An excellent ebook giving an introduction to Tai Chi and the movement meanings. Not a substitute for attending classes but definitely useful to enhance learning
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  • Mrs Michele Gibson
    5.0 out of 5 stars Paul Read has a knack of getting to the heart ...
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on January 17, 2015
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    Paul Read has a knack of getting to the heart or the question in a most entertaining and readable way. The whole Trilogy is well worth having.
    Report
  • Craig Mason
    5.0 out of 5 stars ... of the two secrets of martial arts (and a happy and full life )
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on July 10, 2014
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    this book gives one of the two secrets of martial arts (and a happy and full life ) .so i would recommend it to all
    Report