The Concept of Yielding in Tai Chi as taught by Cheng Man Ching
Cheng Man Ching’s teachings on yielding in Tai Chi are deeply rooted in the principles of Taoism, particularly the teachings of Lao-tze. Yielding, according to Cheng, is not about weakness or mere passivity; it involves an active and dynamic engagement with the opponent’s force.
Here’s a detailed explanation of yielding as articulated by Cheng Man Ching:
- Invest in Loss: Cheng frequently used the phrase “invest in loss” to encapsulate the essence of yielding. This concept involves accepting temporary defeat or disadvantage to gain a better strategic position in the long run. It’s about letting go of the immediate urge to resist forcefully, which can lead to greater control and mastery of the situation[1][2].
- Follow the Dao of Lao-tze: Cheng emphasized following the Daoist way of non-action (Wu Wei), which means achieving more by doing less. In practical terms, this translates to not meeting force with force but rather, absorbing and redirecting it. This approach allows a Tai Chi practitioner to stay relaxed and use the opponent’s energy against them[1].
- Softness Overcomes Hardness: Echoing the Daoist philosophy, Cheng taught that softness and flexibility overcome hardness and rigidity. This principle is evident in how a practitioner handles incoming force, choosing to yield and redirect rather than confront it directly. This method is not only effective in martial arts but also promotes harmony and balance in personal interactions[1][2].
- Maintain Root and Alignment: Proper yielding does not mean collapsing or giving up one’s structure. Cheng stressed the importance of maintaining one’s root (stable base) and proper alignment even while yielding. This ensures that one remains balanced and ready to respond effectively, turning a defensive move into a counterattack opportunity[2].
- Yielding as a Path to Power: By yielding, a practitioner can conserve energy, reduce vulnerability, and prepare for a more strategic engagement. Cheng pointed out that true power in Tai Chi comes from this ability to yield, which allows for controlling the encounter by aligning with the natural flow of events rather than opposing them directly[1].
- Practical Application in Push Hands: In the Tui-shou (push hands) practice, Cheng demonstrated how yielding works as a practical technique. Students learn to feel the force, follow it, and eventually guide it, turning their opponent’s strength to their advantage without the need for overt resistance[1].
Through these teachings, Cheng Man-ching illustrates that yielding is not just a physical technique but a philosophical approach that applies to both martial arts and everyday life. It’s about understanding the dynamics of power, the importance of adaptability, and the strength inherent in softness.
Sources:
[1] https://www.chengmanching.com/yield3.html
[2] https://discovertaiji.com/en/blog/cheng-man-chings
[3] https://discuss.yangfamilytaichi.com/viewtopic.php?t=200
[4] https://taiji-forum.com/lao-tzu-laozi-quotes-tai-chi-sword-45/