Cullen and Master Zhou

A Scholar’s Story: Finding Balance Through Tai Chi

When Cullen McManus first encountered Tai Chi, it was not through a lifelong plan or a neatly defined path. Like many meaningful things, it entered his life quietly—through curiosity, timing, and need. Cullen, Daoist Gate Beverly’s Scholar for 2025–2026, was introduced to Tai Chi and Qigong through an elective course at Salem State University taught…

Tai Chi vs. MMA

Tai Chi vs. MMA

Fighting requires speed, force, and knowing how to take a hit.  Sure, tai chi contains techniques that can be used in a fight.  But, there is no way around it…the only way to learn how to fight is by fighting.  Practicing tai chi forms alone will not teach students to fight.