There have always been close bonds between Tai Chi and Equestrianism. In fact, there are many similarities between the principles of both disciplines, major ones being that correct posture and a relaxed body are essential components for success.
In the Far East, a large number of martial artists were also excellent horsemen. Manchurians were particularly known for their skill.
Wu Jian-Chuan, a Manchurian and the founder of Wu Style Tai Chi “could hide himself under the saddle of a horse or stand on his head on the back of a horse while it was running fast”, according to his daughter Wu Ying-hua in her book “Wu Style Taichichuan”.
Horse are naturally in tune with their own energy. As they are prey animals, even slight nuances and changes in energy are very important to them.
It is this wild quality of their energy that makes horses so attractive to us. Often, by just being in their presence, we can access this wildness and freedom within ourselves.