Image : Greg Goldsworthy
太極拳
T'ai Chi Ch'uan
T’ai Chi Ch’uan is a health art, martial art, and meditative practice that has evolved over centuries. With roots tracing back over 5,000 years to the earliest Taoist traditions, it represents the physical embodiment of Taoist philosophy in motion.
This gentle yet powerful system is built around non-forceful exercises, deep breathing techniques, moving forms, and partner work. Together, these elements help cultivate internal energy—known as chi—which strengthens the body from within, enhances flexibility and suppleness, supports regeneration, and boosts overall vitality.
T’ai Chi is more than just movement; it’s a pathway to maintaining a healthy mind, spirit, and body through the harmonious flow of energy and intention.
The Lee Family Style
李氏太極拳
At Tao Yin Arts, we teach the Lee Family Style of Tai Chi Ch’uan—one of the few systems that closely follows the philosophical principles of Taoism, with the balance of yin and yang at its heart. This style is soft and flowing, yet dynamic, helping to generate and cultivate the body’s internal energy, known as chi. Through regular practice, it promotes flexibility, suppleness, and a deep sense of relaxation and calm, supporting both mental and physical wellbeing.
The Lee Style includes two distinctive free-flowing forms. The first is the Tai Chi Dance, also known as Flying Hands (Tiàowǔ 跳舞), which is expressive and fluid in movement. Rooted in the five elements and Li energy, it helps open the body’s energy pathways, loosen joints, improve cardiovascular health, and develop stillness within motion.
The second form is simply called the Tai Chi Form, or Square Yard Tai Chi, named for its ability to be practiced in a small space. Movements are timed with deep breathing, creating a deeply meditative experience that enhances focus, internal energy, and inner strength.
In addition to these forms, the Lee Style also includes:
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Kaimen and Tao Yin Qigong: Breathing and stretching exercises that support energy cultivation and flexibility.
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Li and Chi Harmony Exercises: Designed to deepen understanding of external energy and how it can be harnessed internally.
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Partner Sensitivity Work: Including I Fu Shou (the Enlightened Hand), whirling arms, and sticky hands exercises that develop awareness, responsiveness, and flow in movement.
Professor Chee Soo and the Lee Style Legacy
The Lee Family Style of Taoist arts was popularised in the West by Professor Chee Soo, a renowned martial artist and health practitioner who taught extensively from the 1950s until his passing in the 1990s. His influence spread across the UK, Europe, and beyond, inspiring thousands of students and shaping the way these arts are practiced today.
Professor Soo’s teachings continue through various associations and clubs led by his senior students, who carry forward his legacy in the UK, Europe, and as far afield as Australia. His deep understanding of Taoist philosophy and practical application of energy arts made him a respected figure in both martial and healing circles.
He authored several books covering T’ai Chi, Chinese healing arts, diet, and the Feng Shou Kung Fu system. His book on Feng Shou was so highly valued that, until its recent republication, second-hand copies were selling for up to £100.
For more background on this extraordinary teacher and the arts he shared, you can explore the Wikipedia article here .