Yiquan (Taikiken) Books

Yiquan (意拳), known as Taikiken in Japan, is a Chinese martial art deeply rooted in the principles of internal strength, mental clarity, and mindfulness. Developed in the early 20th century by Wang Xiangzhai, a martial artist and scholar, Yiquan (or Taikiken) offers practitioners a holistic approach to physical and spiritual cultivation, drawing from ancient Daoist and Buddhist wisdom.

The history of Yiquan (Taikiken) traces back to Wang Xiangzhai's quest to distill the essence of traditional Chinese martial arts into a practical and efficient system. Inspired by his studies of Daoist philosophy, Chinese medicine, and martial arts, Wang Xiangzhai developed a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes central equilibrium, natural movement, and spontaneous response.

Central to Yiquan (Taikiken) training is the practice of standing meditation, wherein practitioners cultivate a state of relaxed yet alert awareness, focusing inward to align mind and body. This practice, known as "zhongding" or central equilibrium, forms the foundation for all subsequent training and serves as a gateway to deeper understanding and mastery.

In addition to standing meditation, Yiquan (Taikiken) includes dynamic exercises known as "dachengquan," or "the great achievement fist," which aim to develop internal power, sensitivity, and martial skill. These exercises emphasize natural, flowing movement and encourage practitioners to adapt intuitively to the demands of combat or confrontation.

Yiquan (Taikiken) has gained popularity both in China and abroad, with practitioners drawn to its practicality, adaptability, and emphasis on mindfulness and intention. In Japan, where it is known as Taikiken, the art has found a dedicated following among martial artists and enthusiasts seeking holistic approaches to health, wellness, and personal development.

Our store offers a curated selection of instructional books on Yiquan (Taikiken) that cover a wide range of topics, including standing meditation, dachengquan exercises, martial applications, and philosophy. Whether you are a novice seeking to explore the fundamentals or a seasoned practitioner aiming to deepen your practice, our books provide invaluable insights and practical guidance to support your journey of discovery and mastery in Yiquan (Taikiken).