David Chang, founder of the Fuewei T’ai Chi Research Center in Newbury Park, will offer a free lecture and demonstration on how to incorporate the nonconfrontational, healing and peaceful principles, philosophy and physical exercises of t’ai chi into one’s life from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Wed., Jan. 11 at the Calabasas campus of Soka University of America, 26800 W. Mulholland Hwy.

The event is open to the public. Reservations are required by calling (818) 878-3741.

Prior to establishing the Fuewei T’ai Chi Research Center, Chang was an inventor, computer scientist and founder-owner of EMCO International, which designed and marketed IBM-compatible computer systems worldwide.

In 1992, Chang sold EMCO, and began traveling to China, pursuing his longtime interest and love of Chinese philosophy, art and poetry and its impact on living a happy, peaceful and healthy life “without spending a lot of money.”

By meeting and studying with the t’ai chi grand masters, philosophers and practitioners, he learned how to apply the knowledge of Chinese philosophy to the ancient t’ai chi meditation practices, exercises and internal/external body movements.

“I came to understand that it was of no importance for me to have the final word in discussions with family and friends,” he said.

“T’ai chi’s fundamental purpose is not for us to feel vindicated, but rather, for us to be comfortable and at peace in our own bodies, and to wish the same for others.”