The answer is both!
Note: Throughout this post, I will use Ruler with a capital ‘R’ for the form/system, and ruler for the tool in order to differentiate between them.
The Tai Chi Ruler form is an ancient and gentle, yet powerful, exercise of Taoist origin. It is a unique method of cultivating Qi because it uses an external object to aid in its development. The system can be used for self-healing, or as a preparation for any form of bodywork. At the same time, the system calms the mind. In fact, the Ruler system is considered an antidote to the untamed mind, as it provides a new dimension of deep calm.
Tai Chi Ruler is done in continuous repetition with deep, slow breathing while holding the ruler (see below) between both palms. The hands make slow circles, which naturally brings attention to the ruler itself. Many Masters believe that this focus on the ruler helps generate Qi very quickly. The movements can be done standing or sitting, and imitate the movement of Qi inside the body, which further develops Qi circulation.
Not surprisingly, the exact origin and history of the Ruler system is clouded in myth and legend. The most prevalent of these states that during the Song Dynasty (960-1278c.e.), a famous Taoist hermit, Chen Hsi Yi (aka Fu Yao Tzu and Chen Tu Nan) was asked by his long-time friend, the Emperor Zhao Kuangyin (Emperor Taizu) to teach him the esoteric methods used to develop his inner power so that he might become a better and wiser ruler. The Ruler system created by Chen Hsi Yi was passed down orally as an Imperial Family secret treasure to other Masters for almost six centuries. In order to protect its secrecy, no written notes were allowed.
One of Emperor Taizu’s descendants, Chao Chung Tao (aka Zhao Zhong-dao), was taught the Ruler system by his 100 year-old grandmother. He became the first person to teach Ruler publicly and started “The Gentle Art of the Taiji Ruler Health Society” in Beijing in the 1950s. Chao, who was born in 1844 and lived to age 118, attributed his long life to practicing the Ruler system.
The ruler is a wooden dowel or rod, with rounded ends. It is between 10.5 and 12 inches long, with a contoured diameter largest at its ends, but it is not used to measure anything. The ruler is not gripped with the fingers, but rather held in the palms of the hands, thereby stimulating the lao gong acupuncture points. Many rulers are hand-crafted wood., and it is believed that the shape of the ruler is derived from the ancient Chinese sword handle.
Many martial artists and Tai Chi practitioners are unaware or unfamiliar with the Tai Chi Ruler, but many believe it provides the necessary foundation for advancing to higher levels of Qigong. The belief is that the Tai Chi Ruler will help attain, “the pliability of a child, the vitality of a lumberjack and the wisdom of a sage.”
Tai Chi Ruler system videos are available on YouTube and there are several DVDs, but if you have a serious interest in learning the Ruler system, check with your local Tai Chi or Qigong instructors and/or schools.
Buyer beware: Not all instructors, videos, and/or DVDs are created equal.