Understanding Paper Taiji (Tai Chi)
Understanding Paper Taiji (Tai Chi)
Throughout history, countless individuals who devoted themselves to calligraphy and painting lived long lives. Figures like Liu Gongquan and Ouyang Xun of the Tang Dynasty, Wen Zhengming and Liang Tongshu of the Ming and Qing dynasties, and modern masters Wu Changshuo, Qi Baishi, and Zhang Daqian all reached ages of 80–90. What is the secret to their longevity? Simply put, it’s consistent daily practice of writing and painting. Human life reflects the interdependence of body and spirit. When physical and mental health are harmonized, longevity becomes possible—and calligraphy and painting achieve just that.
Calligraphy and painting are forms of qigong and tai chi performed on paper. Before beginning, one must clear the mind and focus on the dantian ("lower abdomen"). "First, meditate silently" to purify the heart—this is the "calm mind" stage preceding qigong practice. Then, channel energy through fingers, wrists, arms, and waist, directing full strength to the brush tip: every stroke, curve, or line embodies the entire body’s power. Some strokes resemble "dragons playing in the sea," others "dragonflies skimming the water"—resulting in brilliant, dynamic works. These movements mirror the precise steps of tai chi. Writing and painting require focused concentration, regulated breathing, and a balance of movement and stillness, hardness and softness, emptiness and fullness, varying pressure and speed. Naturally, this promotes circulation of blood and qi, balances excitation and inhibition in the brain, and enhances blood flow and metabolism. Hence the saying: “Calligraphers and painters often live disease-free and long lives.”
Calligraphy and painting cultivate the mind and nourish health, boosting energy and vitality. They demand calmness and composure—any distracted or anxious mindset is inappropriate. As the saying goes: “The essence of calligraphy and painting lies in cultivating the heart”—precisely this idea. Thus, practicing requires controlling the brush with focused intention: “No scattered thoughts—that is the path to entering a transcendent state.” By eliminating distractions and concentrating deeply, stillness can overcome movement. This greatly improves cerebral cortex function, sharpens mental acuity, enhances focus, and regulates mental activity.
Calligraphy and painting are refined artistic pursuits that foster joyful moods and broad-mindedness. On rice paper, the varied elegance of different scripts, the evocative landscapes in paintings, and the lifelike expressions in figure art all spark interest and deliver aesthetic pleasure. Hence, some say that writing and painting not only express refined tastes but also nurture character—a multifaceted approach to health preservation.