Laoshi: Tai Chi, Teachers, and Pursuit of Principle

A tai chi student explores the richness of the art (Zheng Manqing/Cheng Man-ch'ing lineage) with the aid of his teacher, Laoshi. Through personal accounts, reflection, and dialogue with Laoshi, we witness the novice’s evolution in his search for the spirit of the art—and the resulting bond forged with his instructor.

     Together, student and teacher examine the philosophical and martial aspects of tai chi. They demonstrate what it means to pursue principle, and they see the ease with which it can be lost to that trickster and provocateur, the ego.

     Engaging, sincere, and at times lighthearted, this fictional memoir narrated from the student’s perspective addresses themes familiar to all who study tai chi and the martial arts.

     Laoshi is a journey into tai chi and a meditation on life and living without fear.


“Located at the intersection of tai chi and life, technique and principle—the veteran,
beginner, and even nonpractitioner will find wisdom that never descends into cliché. Mr. Kauskas delivers a highly edifying and entertaining cornucopia of anecdote, aphorism, and apocrypha, destined to become a modern classic.”

> DOUGLAS WILE, Ph.D. (author, T’ai Chi’s Ancestors: The Making of an Internal Art)



“. . . informative and entertaining . . . . People who want to learn more about tai chi,
or Eastern philosophy in general, will be well served, and those who practice
tai chi will find answers to many of their questions in this book.”

> KEN VAN SICKLE (author, Taiji Feather Sword)



“Laugh, cringe, and marvel with a young warrior encountering his own issues and blind spots while navigating the labyrinth of martial arts training . . . . our protagonist stumbles and soars in his quest for mastery and enlightenment.”

> TRICIA YU (author, Tai Chi Mind and Body)



“Jan Kauskas covers all the topics and challenges we face in tai chi practice beyond
the physical movements. He shows the entire learning process, written beautifully
as dialogue between the student and his master, Laoshi. A really inspiring book
for all who are playing tai chi or would like to begin.”

> HELMUT OBERLACK (publisher, Taijiquan & Qigong Journal)



“This book allows us to meet that one teacher we all wish we could just spend our entire lives with. We can't help but feel inspired to not just be better martial artists, but better human beings.”

> YANG JWING-MING, PHD. (president, YMAA Retreat Center)