​Taijiquan is based on the Taiji and Bagua of the Book of Changes, and the ideas of Li (principles), Qi (energy), and Xiang (image) help to give shape to these concepts. Confucius said of the Changes, “Modeled on heaven and earth’s transformations, it never goes beyond them.

​"At the beginning of study do not be concerned with cultivating the chi, but strive rather for precision in your body, leg and eye techniques. It is also important not to use strength, but following the natural movement of each posture perform them slowly and deliberately. Be sure the body moves as one complete unit....All the joints and bones should be relaxed and open".

- Attributed to Scohlar, Ch'ang Nai-chou.
​Source: Lost Tai-chi Classics from the late Ch'ing Dynasty - Douglas Wile.

Professor Cheng Man-ching.