Tai chi's unlikely disciple
After leaving his US home behind 14 years ago, Jake Pinnick has dedicated his life to the sacred ways of Wudang Mountain
In touch with tradition
Pinnick's dedication to Wudang culture is unwavering. Whether at home, traveling by train or plane, or even celebrating Christmas with friends, he remains clad in his Taoist attire.
"Practicing tai chi is a way to start a new day that is even better than having coffee," says the American.
Pinnick is proud of his book Introduction to the Dong Xiao: Learn How to Play the Chinese Vertical Flute, which was published in the United States in 2022. He says there are few English books on tai chi or Taoism and he feels obligated to create learning resources for the many enthusiasts worldwide.
Currently, Pinnick is researching the ancient text Tao Te Ching and writing a book in English that includes his own understanding of the work.
"Many people are curious about how I explain traditional Chinese culture in English. My answer is to learn Chinese first and then express it in English," says Pinnick, adding in Chinese that "traditional Chinese culture is profound and extensive, and I became fascinated. Learning for two or three years is not enough; it may take a lifetime, and different ages bring different understandings."
Pinnick's Sino-American family lives and breathes Chinese culture daily. His 9-year-old daughter, Cao Linna, not only practices tai chi and Wudang Sword but also plays the guzheng and hulusi.
Looking ahead, Pinnick's vision is clear: to establish martial arts schools in both China and the United States.
"Many Westerners hope to study on Wudang Mountain, but they don't have the time and opportunity. So, I will take Wudang culture to the US," said Pinnick. "Except that I can't see myself living away from Wudang. This is my second home, where I have my family and my students."
In his quest to promote tai chi, Pinnick has earned certification from the American Council on Exercise and is currently enrolled in a two-year online university course. His philosophy of life is simple: pursue your passions relentlessly. "I don't want to be an ordinary coach teaching ordinary students," he says. "I want to become a master, dedicated to carrying forward Wudang culture and nurturing the 17th generation disciples of the Wudang Sanfeng lineage."
Xinhua
