​Tai Chi Chuan, often shortened to Tai Chi, is a captivating martial art with a rich history spanning centuries. It seamlessly blends self-defence techniques with health promotion and spiritual cultivation. While its exact origins remain shrouded in myth and historical debate, its roots undoubtedly trace back to ancient China. There, it emerged as an "internal" martial art, emphasizing the cultivation of Qi (vital energy) and the principle of using softness and yielding to overcome force. Earlier Roots: Some researchers argue that Tai Chi's roots may predate the Chen family by centuries, potentially tracing back to the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD) or even earlier. This is based on the discovery of ancient texts and martial arts manuals that describe practices resembling Tai Chi principles and movements. The new evidence suggests that Tai Chi's development was not solely attributed to the Chen family but likely involved a synthesis of various martial arts styles, health practices, and philosophical traditions. This includes influences from Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism, as well as other martial arts like Shaolin Kung Fu and Wudang martial arts. Historical documents indicate that Tai Chi-like practices existed in different regions of China, suggesting that the art may have evolved independently in various lineages and communities. This challenges the notion of a single origin point and highlights the diversity of Tai Chi's development. The connection between Tai Chi and Qigong appears to be even deeper than previously thought. New evidence suggests that Qigong practices played a crucial role in the development of Tai Chi, influencing its focus on internal energy cultivation, breath control, and mind-body connection. The research further solidifies the close relationship between Tai Chi and Qigong, highlighting the importance of Qigong training for understanding and mastering Tai Chi. ​ The study of Tai Chi's history is an ongoing process, and new discoveries continue to emerge. Researchers are examining historical texts, analyzing martial arts manuals, and conducting archaeological investigations to piece together a more comprehensive understanding of this ancient art's evolution. As new evidence comes to light, our understanding of Tai Chi's origins and development may continue to evolve, enriching our appreciation for its rich heritage and its enduring relevance in the modern world. While pinpointing the exact genesis of Tai Chi is challenging, the earliest documented evidence leads us to the Chen family in Chenjiagou village (陈家沟) in Henan province, China. Around the 17th century, Chen Wangting (陈王廷), a Ming Dynasty general, is credited with formalizing Chen-style Tai Chi Chuan. He combined martial arts with principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Taoist philosophy, creating a holistic system of movement and energy cultivation.