Deception in Education and Practice: Why Even Highly Educated Professionals Fall for Misinformation

As someone who has spent over four decades practicing, studying, and teaching martial arts and holistic health, I have witnessed firsthand the gradual erosion of authenticity and deception in traditional practices, particularly in the United States. With a Bachelor of Science in Holistic Health and formal studies in psychology, sociology, PTSD, physiopsychology, religion, philosophy, Eastern thought, and the U.S. healthcare system, I have sought to understand why deception in professional and educational settings is so prevalent.

Beyond martial arts, my experience includes 20 years at a high level within a highly insular, strongly hierarchical, and ideologically rigid organization that fostered a deeply immersive and echo-chamber environment. Within this structure, dogmatic teachings were reinforced, and critical inquiry was often discouraged. These insights have given me firsthand exposure to the power of groupthink, social conditioning, and blind trust in authority, leading me to question why even highly educated professionals, those who pride themselves on knowledge and integrity, can fall for deceptive practices, sometimes unknowingly, sometimes willingly.

The answer lies in a mix of psychological phenomena, social conditioning, and systemic complacency, all of which contribute to the uncritical acceptance of misinformation and misrepresented traditions.

How Deception Manifests in Professional Circles

The Bait-and-Switch Model

A classic example of deception is called the “bait-and-switch” model, orthe practice of marketing one thing while delivering something entirely different.

In martial arts, particularly tai chi, many instructors advertise lineage-based training but actually teach a mix of simplified qigong movements that lack the biomechanical structure, martial application, and philosophical depth of true tai chi. This bait-and-switch is not always done with malice, sometimes, these instructors were themselves misled.

The same pattern occurs in healthcare, education, and professional training programs. A wellness coach may be certified in “tai chi” after a weekend workshop that teaches nothing more than generic breathing exercises. A doctor might recommend a therapeutic method without investigating its legitimacy, relying solely on institutional backing.

Why does this happen? Because highly educated individuals are just as susceptible to deception as anyone else, sometimes even more so.

Understanding how misinformation spreads among professionals requires a closer examination of the psychological mechanisms at play. Many assume that education alone is enough to safeguard against deception, but the reality is more complex. The intersection of cognitive biases, institutional structures, and social pressures creates an environment where even well-meaning professionals may unknowingly perpetuate falsehoods.

Psychological Mechanisms That Enable Deception

1. Groupthink and Echo Chambers

Groupthink occurs when individuals prioritize group cohesion over critical thinking. In professional circles, questioning widely accepted practices can be socially and professionally risky. If an institution, hospital, or wellness center endorses a particular method, many professionals will blindly accept it rather than challenge its legitimacy.

Similarly, echo chambers are where people are only exposed to information that reinforces their beliefs, creating an illusion of consensus. In other words, if “everyone” in the field is saying something is true, then it must be, right?

Example: A hospital integrates “tai chi” into patient care, but what they are actually promoting is a set of disconnected qigong exercises. Because multiple institutions endorse the same program, no one questions its authenticity.

2. Compliance and Institutional Authority

Many professionals trust authority figures and institutions over personal investigation. If a method is backed by a well-known organization, it is often assumed to be legitimate. Compliance within hierarchical structures, such as hospitals, universities, or corporate training programs, discourages critical inquiry.

Another crucial factor is the Dunning-Kruger Effect, where individuals with limited knowledge overestimate their competence. This is particularly problematic in fields where professionals receive superficial training in a subject yet assume they have mastered it. A healthcare provider who attends a weekend seminar on tai chi, for example, may believe they fully grasp its principles and applications, despite lacking the years of rigorous training required for true expertise. This misplaced confidence can lead them to misrepresent tai chi, endorse incorrect practices, or dismiss criticisms from those with deeper knowledge.

Example: A university offers a “Tai Chi for Rehabilitation” certification, but the course is taught by individuals with no connection to lineage-based tai chi. Students accept the curriculum as valid because it comes from an academic institution.

3. Cognitive Dissonance and The Need to Justify Investment

Cognitive dissonance occurs when individuals experience psychological discomfort due to conflicting beliefs. Rather than admit they were misled, they will often rationalize their choices.

Example: A doctor who has been teaching “tai chi” to patients later discovers that what they learned has no real connection to tai chi principles. Instead of acknowledging the error, they convince themselves that what they teach is “good enough” because patients seem to benefit from it.

The greater the investment, whether in time, money, or personal reputation, the harder it becomes to admit fault.

4. Loss of Agency and The Illusion of Knowledge

Loss of agency happens when people rely too much on external validation rather than personal research. Many professionals believe that because they are educated, they are immune to deception, a form of bias of overconfidence.

Example: A physical therapist learns tai chi from a single continuing education course and assumes they now “know” tai chi. They never think to seek a lineage-based teacher because they believe their credentials alone make them competent.

This illusion of knowledge creates a false sense of expertise, making individuals less likely to seek out authentic sources.

5. The Hawthorne Effect and Operant Conditioning

The Hawthorne Effect refers to people modifying their behavior when they know they are being observed, often leading them to reinforce whatever system they are operating within. When professionals receive positive feedback for their work, they are more likely to continue it, even if it is flawed.

Example: A wellness instructor receives praise and recognition for teaching “tai chi” to seniors. Even if they later realize that what they are teaching lacks real tai chi principles, they continue anyway because the system rewards them for it.

Similarly, operant conditioning reinforces behaviors through rewards (career advancement, financial incentives, social approval), making individuals hesitant to challenge the status quo.

6. Professional Bias and Status Quo Thinking

Many educated professionals believe they are too intelligent to be misled, ironically making them more vulnerable to deception. They assume that because they have degrees or certifications, they are automatically capable of discerning truth from falsehood. This leads to status quo bias where established norms are favored, even when evidence suggests a better alternative.

Example: A medical board endorses a “tai chi” program without verifying its authenticity. Because it is institutionally approved, healthcare professionals continue promoting it even if they suspect it is inaccurate.

The Responsibility of Professionals to Seek Truth

Highly educated individuals, especially those who interact with the public, must be held to a higher standard of due diligence. Their decisions impact patients, students, and clients, and therefore, they have an ethical obligation to verify the accuracy of what they promote.

While many professionals fall for misinformation unintentionally, willful ignorance is not an excuse. In an era where information is readily available, professionals should be expected to:

Question the validity of institutional endorsements.
Seek primary sources and traditional lineages when applicable.
Acknowledge and correct misinformation rather than doubling down on errors.

Failure to do so not only undermine their credibility but also erodes public trust in education, healthcare, and martial arts traditions.

Conclusion: A Call for Intellectual Integrity

Deception in martial arts, healthcare, and other fields is not just an individual issue. It is a systemic problem rooted in cognitive biases, institutional authority, and social conditioning. By understanding the psychological mechanisms behind why professionals fall for misinformation, we can begin to challenge these patterns and restore integrity to our disciplines.

Education should not be about blind acceptance, but rather it should be about critical inquiry, truth-seeking, and personal responsibility. Those who pride themselves on knowledge must be willing to go beyond surface-level expertise and seek the depth that true mastery requires.

I look forward to further sharing more of my message by partnering with hospitals, wellness centers, VA centers, schools on all levels, businesses, and individuals who see the value in building a stronger nation through building a healthier population.

I also have hundreds of FREE education video classes, lectures, and seminars available on my YouTube channel at:

https://www.youtube.com/c/MindandBodyExercises

Many of my publications can be found on Amazon at:

http://www.Amazon.com/author/jimmoltzan

My holistic health blog is available at:

https://mindandbodyexercises.wordpress.com/

http://www.MindAndBodyExercises.com

Mind and Body Exercises on Google: https://posts.gle/aD47Qo

Jim Moltzan

407-234-0119

The Great American Contradiction: Why We Say One Thing and Do Another

My posts are mostly about holistic health, wellness, and various methods to achieve balance in our lives. Human behavior or psychology are subjects I have delved deeper into, as our behavior dramatically affects our mental, physical, and spiritual well-being.

The United States is a nation built on ideals of freedom, opportunity, and justice, but beneath these principles lies a web of contradictions. Many Americans know systemic issues, broken systems, and political dysfunction, yet they often feel powerless to enact meaningful change. Some believe they have no viable alternatives, while others simply don’t care as long as the consequences don’t affect them directly. Lack of agency (ability to act and make choices independently) and lack of control (exerting power or influence over others or outcomes) can have deep psychological effects, leading to many chronic cognitive ailments such as depression, anxiety, insecurity, and others. It’s time for a collective reckoning. Perhaps it’s time to ask not just, “Are we part of the problem?” but also, “What can we do to be part of the solution?”

Here’s a closer look at some of the most glaring contradictions or cognitive dissonance (the discomfort of holding conflicting beliefs or values) in American society, grouped by their interrelated themes:

🏛️ Government and Political Dysfunction

1. Term Limits vs. Career Politicians

There is widespread support for imposing term limits on politicians, yet career politicians dominate Washington. Many Americans believe fresh perspectives would benefit governance, but efforts to enforce limits consistently stall. Voters complain about corruption but continue re-electing the same people.

2. Politicians and Insider Trading vs. Public Trust

Most Americans believe politicians should not benefit from insider trading, yet cases of elected officials profiting from privileged information persist. Despite this, the same politicians often get re-elected. We claim to detest corruption but keep endorsing those who abuse their positions.

3. Foreign Wars vs. Public Opinion

A large portion of the population opposes foreign military interventions, yet the U.S. remains entangled in conflicts worldwide. Public sentiment rarely translates into policy changes, highlighting the disconnect between the will of the people and government actions.

4. Perceived Misuse of Tax Dollars vs. Continued Compliance

Taxpayers express frustration over how their money is spent, with glaring examples of inefficiency and corruption. For instance, California spent $24 billion to address homelessness, yet the crisis has only worsened. In November 2024, the Pentagon failed to pass its annual audit, meaning that it wasn’t able to fully account for how its $824 billion budget was used. This was the 7th failed audit in a row, since the Department of Defense became required to undergo yearly audits in 2018. Despite this, people continue paying taxes while feeling powerless to demand accountability.

5. Daylight Saving Time vs. Public Opinion

Twice a year, Americans grumble about the disruption caused by changing the clocks. Studies show that daylight saving time may increase health risks and reduce productivity, yet it persists. Despite widespread dissatisfaction, legislative inertia keeps the practice alive.

6. Limited Political Choices vs. Frustration with the Two-Party System

Americans lament the lack of political diversity and the stranglehold of the two-party system, yet alternative parties remain marginalized. Even though many feel disillusioned, they continue to choose between the “lesser of two evils.” Real change remains elusive because the system favors the status quo.

💰 Economics and Consumer Behavior

7. Support for Public Education vs. Private School Enrollment

Public education is hailed as the cornerstone of equal opportunity, yet families who can afford it often opt for private schooling. This creates a disconnect between advocating for public education and personal choices that contribute to inequality.

8. Supporting Local Businesses vs. Shopping Online

We talk about the importance of supporting local businesses, yet giants like Amazon, Walmart, and Starbucks continue to dominate, often putting small businesses out of business. Convenience, competitive pricing, and free shipping lure consumers away from their local economies.

9. Income Inequality vs. Celebrity Worship

While many decry income inequality and the wealth gap, America remains obsessed with celebrity culture and extravagant lifestyles. This fascination with the ultra-wealthy perpetuates distorted perceptions of success and value.

10. Perceived Value vs. Price Sensitivity

Consumers often complain about the declining quality of goods and services but continue purchasing cheap, mass-produced items instead of supporting higher-quality alternatives. The desire for instant gratification and low prices outweighs long-term sustainability.

🏥 Health, Lifestyle, and Well-Being

11. Fast Food Consumption vs. Health Awareness

We know fast food is unhealthy. Obesity, diabetes, and other ailments continue to soar, yet fast-food chains thrive. Parents claim they care about their children’s health but often default to convenience, feeding them processed foods while allowing endless hours of screen time. Nutrition takes a backseat to ease, and the consequences are generational.

12. Sedentary Lifestyles vs. Advocacy for Healthy Living

We advocate for fitness, movement, and healthy living, yet modern lifestyles promote sedentary habits such as long hours at desks, excessive screen time, and minimal physical activity. Knowledge doesn’t always translate to action.

13. Healthcare System Criticism vs. Reliance on It

Americans recognize that the healthcare system is broken, yet they remain reliant on it. Pharmaceutical companies flood the media with advertisements, influencing consumers and doctors alike. Few healthcare professionals advocate for changes in lifestyle, diet, and exercise favoring “a pill for every ill.” The system favors profits over people, but viable alternatives are scarce, leaving many trapped in a cycle of dependency.

14. Body Positivity vs. Unrealistic Beauty Standards

The body positivity movement advocates for acceptance and inclusivity, but media, advertising, and Hollywood continue to promote unrealistic beauty standards. Thinness, youth, and perfection remain the ideal, perpetuating negative body image and self-esteem issues.

15. Desire for Work-Life Balance vs. Overworking Culture

Many Americans yearn for a better work-life balance, yet the culture of overwork persists. Long hours, limited vacation time, and a “hustle mentality” lead to burnout and mental health struggles. We value personal well-being in theory but often sacrifice it in practice.

🌎 Environment and Sustainability

16. Environmental Awareness vs. Consumerism

Many Americans express concern about climate change and environmental degradation but continue consuming at unsustainable levels. Convenience, affordability, and habit often override sustainable choices. The “Not in My Backyard” (NIMBY) mentality prevails, as people want solutions without altering their lifestyles.

17. Recycling Rhetoric vs. Minimal Action

Americans advocate for recycling and environmental protection, yet most recycling programs are underutilized or ineffective. Many items placed in recycling bins end up in landfills, and people often lack awareness of proper recycling practices.

🔒 Privacy, Technology, and Social Isolation

18. Privacy Concerns vs. Social Media Addiction

Many express concerns over privacy and data security in the digital age, yet millions willingly share intimate details of their lives on platforms that harvest personal data. We fear surveillance but continue scrolling, liking, and posting. Convenience and entertainment often outweigh the fear of losing control over our private information.

19. Spam, Telemarketers, and Privacy Violations vs. Acceptance of Invasions

Americans complain about the relentless onslaught of spam calls, telemarketers, and digital intrusions, yet many accept these invasions as a normal part of modern life. We express frustration over privacy violations but rarely take steps to secure our information or demand accountability from corporations that exploit personal data.

20. Community Engagement vs. Social Isolation

Americans value community engagement and connection, yet the rise of digital communication and urbanization has led to increased social isolation. We crave connection but often retreat into virtual worlds, losing the sense of belonging that real communities provide. We see electronic devices as babysitters for children and adults alike, and then wonder why so many are depressed, anxious, and unable to be comfortable in real-life social settings.

21. Mistrust of Big Tech vs. Dependence on It

Americans frequently express mistrust of big tech companies, citing concerns about monopolies, privacy, and censorship. Yet, dependence on platforms like Google, Facebook, and Amazon remains pervasive. We resent their power but rely on their convenience.

⚖️ Ethics, Morality, and Social Justice

22. Human Rights Advocacy vs. Selective Outrage

Many advocate for human rights and justice but remain selective in their outrage, often influenced by political affiliations or cultural biases. Genuine concern for equality should transcend partisanship, yet inconsistencies persist.

23. Religious Values vs. Material Pursuits

America prides itself on being a nation of faith, yet materialism and consumerism often overshadow spiritual values. Many profess religious beliefs but prioritize wealth, status, and success over moral and ethical principles.

24. Public Demand for Change vs. Fear of Disruption

Perhaps the most significant contradiction is that while Americans express a desire for change, they also fear the disruption that change may bring. Breaking free from familiar systems requires effort, sacrifice, and discomfort—something many are unwilling to endure.

🪶 Historical Amnesia and Disregard for the Marginalized

25. The Forgotten Victims: Native Americans and Historical Amnesia

America celebrates its history of freedom and democracy while ignoring the ongoing consequences of genocide and displacement inflicted on Native American communities. Treaties were broken, lands were stolen, and entire cultures were nearly erased. Yet, mainstream narratives often gloss over these atrocities, perpetuating historical amnesia. The plight of Native Americans remains a footnote in history books, even as they continue to face systemic inequalities.

26. Advocacy for Social Justice vs. Ignoring Indigenous Struggles

While advocating for social justice and equality, many overlook the ongoing struggles of indigenous communities. Issues such as land sovereignty, environmental degradation, and broken treaties remain unresolved, highlighting a glaring inconsistency in America’s commitment to justice.

🔍 A Nation at a Crossroads

America’s contradictions are not just individual dilemmas—they reflect the collective psyche of a nation grappling with competing values and desires. To move forward, we must confront these inconsistencies with honesty and courage. True change starts not just by acknowledging these contradictions but by taking deliberate action to align our values with our behavior. “Change the world!” “Fix the system!”

Instead: Are we ready to face the mirror? How about changing ourselves?

I also have hundreds of FREE education video classes, lectures, and seminars available on my YouTube channel at:

https://www.youtube.com/c/MindandBodyExercises

Many of my publications can be found on Amazon at:

http://www.Amazon.com/author/jimmoltzan

My holistic health blog is available at:

https://mindandbodyexercises.wordpress.com/

http://www.MindAndBodyExercises.com

Mind and Body Exercises on Google: https://posts.gle/aD47Qo

Jim Moltzan

407-234-0119

Fascia and Energy Flow: Unlocking the Link Between Myofascial Trains and TCM Meridians

Recent research has found links in form and function between the interactions of the fascial network and acupuncture. Health and fitness researchers have discovered that connective tissue, along with collagen fibers and fibroblasts, wraps around the end of the acupuncture needle when it is rotated in place. These effects have been seen at up to 4cm away from the site of needle insertion. Researchers have surmised that acupuncture energy meridians may follow the intermuscular or intramuscular myofascial lines (Yunshan et al., 2025).

The myofascial meridians do not follow the precise lines of the Chinese energy meridians, which are an energetic connection rather than physical. However, there is some definite overlap. The unrestricted movement, taught in the Chinese internal martial arts, involves the free flow of Qi and aligning the myofascial lines.

The connection between Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) meridians and the myofascial trains described in modern anatomy, particularly by Thomas Myers in Anatomy Trains (2016), is a fascinating area of study. This relationship bridges ancient wisdom with contemporary science, offering insights into how energy and structure interact within the human body.

1. Structural Similarities

Meridians in TCM – In TCM, meridians are pathways through which qi (vital energy) flows, connecting organs, tissues, and systems. These pathways follow predictable routes along the body and influence both physical and energetic health.
Myofascial Trains – Myofascial trains, as described by Myers, are continuous lines of fascia and connective tissue that transmit tension, force, and movement throughout the body. Myers identified 12 major myofascial lines, many of which mirror the flow of energy described by TCM meridians.

Overlap: Many of the fascial lines align quite well with the primary TCM meridians:

The Superficial Back Line aligns with the Bladder Meridian running down the back.

The Superficial Front Line aligns the Stomach and Spleen Meridians.

The Lateral Line aligns with the Gallbladder Meridian.

The Deep Front Line aligns with the Kidney and Liver Meridians, especially in the connection between the psoas and diaphragm.

2. Fascia’s High Water Content and Conductivity

Hydrophilic Nature: Fascia is composed primarily of collagen and elastin fibers suspended in a gel-like ground substance known as the extracellular matrix (ECM), which is about 70-80% water. This high water content allows fascia to conduct electrical signals efficiently.
Structured Water and Bioelectricity: Within the fascia, water exists in a structured or “exclusion zone” (EZ) state, where the water molecules align in a crystalline lattice. This structured water behaves like a semiconductor, facilitating the transmission of bioelectric signals, which closely parallels the movement of qi in TCM.
Fascia’s Role – Fascia is highly innervated and acts as a communication network, responding to mechanical, chemical, and energetic stimuli. It conducts bioelectricity, making it a potential medium for the flow of qi.
Piezoelectric Effect – When fascia is stretched or moved, it generates electrical charges through the piezoelectric effect. This phenomenon may correspond to the concept of qi moving through the meridians, providing a scientific basis for the energetic flow described in TCM.

3. Points of Intersection

Acupuncture Points and Fascial Crossroads – Many acupuncture points are located where fascial planes intersect or where fascia connects with nerves, vessels, and muscles. Stimulating these points may influence both the fascia and the flow of energy, restoring balance in structure and energy flow
Trigger Points and Ashi Points – rigger points in fascia often correspond to Ashi points in TCM. This overlap highlights a deep connection between fascial dysfunction and energy stagnation, further supporting the integration of these systems.

4. Dynamic Interplay of Movement and Energy

Tai Chi, Dao Yin and Qigong – Practices like dao yin and qigong manipulate both fascial tension and qi circulation, encouraging smooth flow along these pathways. The slow, mindful stretching and holding in these exercises release fascial restrictions while restoring balance to the meridians.

5. Scientific Validation Growing

Studies using fMRI and infrared thermography have shown that needling acupuncture points activate areas along predictable pathways, which often align with fascial lines.

Research on fascia’s bioelectric properties suggests that it may serve as the “physical” counterpart to the meridian system described in ancient texts. This growing body of evidence bridges the gap between TCM and modern anatomy.

6. Potential Implications

Holistic Therapies

Combining myofascial release with acupressure or acupuncture can enhance therapeutic outcomes by addressing both the structural and energetic dimensions of the body. This integrated approach allows practitioners to work more holistically, benefiting patients on multiple levels.

Blending Ancient and Modern Knowledge

Understanding the correlation between fascia and meridians helps modern therapists—such as osteopaths, physiotherapists, and acupuncturists apply ancient wisdom in a contemporary context. This connection exemplifies how ancient practices anticipated discoveries that Western science is only beginning to explore. In essence, fascia may serve as the physical matrix through which the meridian system operates, blending ancient wisdom with modern anatomy. This connection is a prime example of how ancient practices anticipated discoveries that Western science is just beginning to explore.

Fascia may serve as the physical matrix through which the meridian system operates, blending ancient TCM principles with modern anatomical insights. This evolving understanding highlights the profound interplay between structure and energy, offering a unified perspective on health and healing.

References:

Myers, T. W. (2020). Anatomy trains: Myofascial meridians for manual and movement therapists (4th ed.). Elsevier.

Themes, U. (2016, June 11). Fascia and biomechanical regulation. Basicmedical Key. https://basicmedicalkey.com/fascia-and-biomechanical-regulation/

Yunshan, L., Chengli, X., Peiming, Z., Haocheng, Q., Xudong, L., & Liming, L. (2025). Integrative research on the mechanisms of acupuncture mechanics and interdisciplinary innovation. BioMedical Engineering OnLine, 24(1), 1–24. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12938-025-01357-w

I also have hundreds of FREE education video classes, lectures, and seminars available on my YouTube channel at:

https://www.youtube.com/c/MindandBodyExercises

Many of my publications can be found on Amazon at:

http://www.Amazon.com/author/jimmoltzan

My holistic health blog is available at:

https://mindandbodyexercises.wordpress.com/

http://www.MindAndBodyExercises.com

Mind and Body Exercises on Google: https://posts.gle/aD47Qo

Jim Moltzan

407-234-0119

“True words are seldom kind. Kind words are seldom true”

The statement, “True words are seldom kind. Kind words are seldom true,” reflects the dynamic interplay of yin and yang, as well as the balance between truth (emotion) and rightness (logic), with correctness emerging as their synthesis.

Yin and Yang in Truth and Kindness

Truth (Yang – Hard, Objective, Direct): Truth is clear and straightforward, focusing on facts rather than perceptions. It aligns with the logical aspect of “rightness,” emphasizing what is accurate over emotional considerations. Similar to yang, truth clarifies reality without prioritizing comfort.

Kindness (Yin – Soft, Subjective, Nurturing): Kindness is based on empathy and the emotional aspect of interactions. It often aims to soften the impact of truth to maintain harmony and relationships. This relates to the emotional side of “truthfulness,” focusing on how something feels rather than its factual accuracy. Similar to yin, kindness nurtures and soothes, sometimes prioritizing comfort over complete disclosure.

Correctness as Balance

Neither extreme of blunt truth nor gentle avoidance leads to effective communication. The optimal form of communication balances emotional sensitivity and logical correctness. Wisdom involves knowing when to emphasize accuracy, when to offer empathy, and how to integrate both aspects. Similar to how yin and yang transform under specific conditions, truth can be softened by kindness without compromising its integrity, while kindness can convey truth without becoming misleading. The skill of achieving balance lies in articulating what is true appropriately, ensuring it is both logically accurate and emotionally resonant.

Real-Life Examples of Truth vs. Kindness

Balanced (Correct – Yin-Yang): “I see your potential, and I think with some focused effort in these areas, you could perform at a higher level. I’d love to help you get there.”

Health & Well-Being:

Pure Truth (Yang): A doctor bluntly tells a patient, “You are dangerously overweight, and you need to lose weight immediately, or you risk serious health issues.”

Pure Kindness (Yin): “You’re perfect just the way you are. Don’t worry about your weight.”

Balanced (Correct – Yin-Yang): “Your health is important, and I want to support you in making changes that will help you feel better and live longer.”

Relationships & Personal Growth:

Pure Truth (Yang): A friend tells another, “Your behavior is selfish, and that’s why people distance themselves from you.”

Pure Kindness (Yin): “You’re wonderful just as you are. Everyone should accept you without question.”

Balanced (Correct – Yin-Yang): “I value you as a friend, and I’ve noticed that some of your actions push people away. Would you be open to talking about ways to strengthen your relationships?”

Work & Professional Feedback:

Pure Truth (Yang): A boss tells an employee, “Your work is subpar, and you might not last here if you don’t improve.”

Pure Kindness (Yin): “You’re doing just fine, no worries!” (even when the work needs improvement).

Balanced (Correct – Yin-Yang): “I see your potential, and I think with some focused effort in these areas, you could perform at a higher level. I’d love to help you get there.”

I also have hundreds of FREE education video classes, lectures, and seminars available on my YouTube channel at:

https://www.youtube.com/c/MindandBodyExercises

Many of my publications can be found on Amazon at:

http://www.Amazon.com/author/jimmoltzan

My holistic health blog is available at:

https://mindandbodyexercises.wordpress.com/

http://www.MindAndBodyExercises.com

Mind and Body Exercises on Google: https://posts.gle/aD47Qo

Jim Moltzan

407-234-0119

Tai Chi in the US: Tradition, Truth, and the Illusion of Authenticity

Tai chi, one of the most well-known Chinese martial arts, has evolved significantly as it has spread beyond China. Originally developed as an internal martial art (neijia) integrating martial applications, health benefits, and Daoist philosophical principles, tai chi has often been misrepresented in the United States. While many instructors have contributed positively to promoting its health benefits, others have mischaracterized the art, not necessarily by teaching bad practices, but by presenting something entirely different under the tai chi name.

Having practiced, studied, and researched martial arts for over 40 years and legitimate tai chi for the last 25 years, I have personally witnessed the “bait-and-switch” tactics used to market tai chi to Western audiences. Some instructors, either due to a lack of proper training or deliberate deception, have claimed to teach authentic tai chi while actually presenting simplified qigong exercises, unrelated movement drills, or incomplete systems. While qigong and tai chi are both respected Chinese internal arts, they are not interchangeable. All tai chi is qigong, but not all qigong is tai chi. This misrepresentation undermines the integrity of an institution built on discipline, honesty, and tradition.

This article examines the philosophical foundations of tai chi, its key physical components, and the ways to identify authentic practice, particularly within the Chen, Yang, and Wu styles, which are three prominent traditional lineages.

Firsthand Observations of Tai Chi’s Migration and “Bait-and-Switch”

When tai chi was first introduced in the United States, several Asian martial artists took advantage of the limited understanding of internal martial arts among Western practitioners. Some presented adjusted qigong sequences or simplified slow-motion movements as “tai chi,” presuming that American students would not discern the difference.

A fitting analogy for this phenomenon can be seen in the restaurant industry. Imagine going to a Chinese restaurant and ordering the Korean dish “bi bim bop.” The menu lists it clearly, so you expect to receive the correct dish. But when the server brings your meal, you are given “lo mein” noodles instead, and they insist that this is bi bim bop. While lo mein is still an Asian dish, and perhaps even delicious, it is NOT what you ordered.

Yang style 24 – **This IS tai chi**, complete with names for each exercise

This is exactly what has happened with tai chi in the West. Many students sign up for classes expecting to learn a legitimate tai chi lineage, yet what they receive is a completely different system, usually a generic set of slow movements, breathwork, or unrelated qigong exercises.

Another analogy would be a student enrolling in a college program to earn a degree in Cantonese. They spend four years diligently studying, assuming they are learning the language they signed up for. However, upon graduation, they realize they have actually been taught Mandarin instead. While Mandarin is still a valuable language, the fact remains that the institution misled the student about what they were learning.

Similarly, in the world of tai chi, many instructors have claimed to teach legitimate Chen, Yang, or Wu styles tai chi, but in reality, what they teach lacks core structural components, martial applications, key internal mechanics and the philosophy of these arts as a whole. While what they offer may still provide health benefits, students deserve transparency about what they are actually learning.

I have personally encountered numerous instructors who claimed to teach authentic tai chi but omitted core elements such as silk-reeling energy (Chan Si Jin), fajin (explosive power), and martial applications. Similarly, other teachers abandoned tai chi’s rooting, structural integrity, and push hands training, reducing the practice to mere choreographed relaxation exercises or maybe physical fitness methods at best.

This misrepresentation, while sometimes unintentional and at other times deliberately misleading, is problematic because martial arts in general and tai chi in particular are institutions that pride themselves on high moral standards, integrity, and character. The issue is not that what these instructors teach is inherently bad or ineffective. Many of these adapted forms still provide great health and self-defense benefits. However, they have misrepresented their systems as part of a legitimate lineage when they are not.

This is mostly NOT Tai Chi – however, legitimate static exercises of qigong or dao yin

With greater access to legitimate sources, historical records, and international training opportunities, modern practitioners can now recognize the discrepancies between traditional tai chi and commercialized adaptations. However, the impact of this bait-and-switch phenomenon still lingers in the tai chi landscape today.

Philosophical Foundations of Tai Chi

Tai chi is deeply rooted in Daoist and Confucian philosophy, incorporating yin-yang theory, Five Element Theory (Wu Xing), and Bagua (Eight Trigrams theory). These principles shape both the physical movements and the strategic martial applications of the art.

Yin and Yang: The Balance of Softness and Strength

Tai chi, literally translated as “Supreme Ultimate”, embodies the interplay of yin (softness, receptivity) and yang (hardness, action). Movements transition fluidly between yielding and attacking, expansion and contraction, in accordance with these principles.

This balance is evident across all major styles:

Chen-style integrates sudden explosive releases of energy (fajin) alongside soft, coiling movements.
Yang-style, derived from Chen, smooths out the transitions but retains the root structure and internal power.
Wu-style, known for its compact, small-frame movements, emphasizes yielding and subtle redirections over forceful exchanges.

The Five Elements (Wu Xing) in Tai Chi Practice

The Five Element Theory (Wu Xing) describes dynamic interactions in nature, which tai chi integrates into its movement and energy principles. Each element correlates with essential aspects of tai chi’s execution:

Wood (expansion, spiraling energy) – Silk-reeling movements (Chen-style) and the extension of intent through structure (Yang & Wu styles).
Fire (ascending, explosive power) – Fajin (Chen-style), as well as the expansive issuing energy in Yang and Wu applications.
Earth (stability, neutrality) – Rooting and central equilibrium across all tai chi styles.
Metal (condensing, refining force) – The precision of structure and economy of movement, particularly in Wu-style’s compact footwork.
Water (flow, adaptability) – The continuous, uninterrupted movement quality of Yang and Wu styles, contrasted with the coiling, wave-like motions of Chen-style.

Bagua (Eight Trigrams) and Cycles of Transformation

Tai chi shares conceptual similarities with Bagua Zhang (Eight Trigrams Palm), particularly in its circular stepping and understanding of transformation in combat. The eight trigrams (Bagua) symbolize the natural forces of heaven, earth, wind, thunder, water, fire, mountain, and valley, each influencing different movement qualities. The 8 energies of fundamental tai chi principles correspond with the 8 trigrams of the bagua:

Peng (heaven) – Ward Off: This energy is about expanding outwards and destabilizing an opponent, likened to a filling balloon.
Lu (earth) – Roll Back: This energy involves a rolling or drawing action while grounding and stabilizing, like drawing a line with a brush.
Ji (water) – Press: This energy involves a squeezing or pressing action, often used to control an opponent’s movement.
An (fire) – Push: This energy is a direct pushing action that moves an opponent away or creates an opening.
Tsai (wind) – Pluck: This energy is a plucking, pulling or grabbing action, used to disrupt an opponent’s balance.
Lieh (thunder) – Split: This energy involves a splitting or parting action, used to create space or to separate an opponent.
Zhou (valley) – Elbow: This energy uses the elbow as a weapon, either for striking or for blocking.
Kao (mountain) – Shoulder: This energy uses the shoulder to bump or lean into an opponent, creating an opportunity for attack or defense.

Physical Components of Authentic Tai Chi

Having personally trained with high-level practitioners from traditional tai chi lineages, I can confirm that authentic practice requires adherence to specific biomechanical principles. Many modern adaptations focus solely on relaxation, neglecting the essential physical structure required for both internal energy development and combat application.

Kinetic Linking: The Chain of Movement

Tai chi follows the principle of kinetic linking, where movement flows seamlessly through the entire body. This structure applies across all major styles:

The feet root – Power originates from the ground.
The waist and spine direct – The dantian (energy center) leads all movement.
The arms and hands express – Energy manifests outward through an integrated whole-body structure.

Recognizing Authentic Chen, Yang, and Wu Tai Chi

Chen-Style Tai Chi

Alternating slow and fast movements – Not just slow-motion practice.
Silk-reeling drills – Without these, it is not real Chen-style tai chi.
Explosive fajin strikes – Demonstrating internal power expression.

Yang-Style Tai Chi

Large, flowing postures – Emphasis on balance and smoothness.
No abrupt power releases – Unlike Chen-style, Yang-style minimizes fajin.

Wu-Style Tai Chi

Smaller movements and compact footwork – Close-range efficiency.
Subtle redirections – Making use of yielding and sensitivity.

Conclusion

As someone who has spent over four decades practicing, studying, and researching tai chi and other martial arts, I have personally witnessed both authentic and misrepresented versions of tai chi in the United States. While many well-intentioned teachers have promoted tai chi’s health benefits, others have knowingly or unknowingly diluted the art, leading to confusion among students seeking traditional training. If a martial arts master, expert, or instructor is going to invest their time, effort, and passion in teaching others, why not spend that time learning one of the original, legitimate styles? Perhaps it is easier for them to perpetuate the deception rather than embrace the challenge of learning an authentic style. Is it pride, unwillingness to admit there’s more to learn, or simply a lack of access to true knowledge? Whatever the case, commit to authenticity and honor the lineage of the art.

The bait-and-switch marketing model has been a persistent issue, with many instructors selling qigong exercises as tai chi, stripping the art of its core biomechanical principles and martial applications. However, today’s practitioners have more access to knowledge than ever before. By asking the right questions, studying traditional principles, and seeking qualified lineage-based instruction, students can ensure they are learning true, authentic tai chi, rather than an imitation product rebranded for unknowing students and even healthcare professionals who associate with these practices.

This issue extends beyond martial arts circles. Healthcare professionals, wellness coaches, and others who incorporate tai chi into their practices should be held to a higher standard of ethical responsibility. Professions that pride themselves on education and evidence-based care must ensure that what they promote aligns with authentic traditions, not diluted versions repackaged for commercial appeal. By failing to verify authenticity, they risk misleading their patients and clients, ultimately undermining trust and diminishing the effectiveness of these ancient practices. In a world where information is readily available, there is little excuse for perpetuating misconceptions. Upholding the integrity of both martial arts and healthcare professions requires a commitment to truth, accountability, and respect for the original systems that have endured for centuries.