Oct 05 2009
10 Concepts of Tai Chi – Essential to its Practice
by Walter McKibben
Tai Chi is not just about the mere swing of the arm or the slight movement of the feet. There is a meaning behind every movement and change of style that is performed. These concepts led the way to building every Tai Chi form. So you have to pay close attention on every action because even though it seem so basic, they are indeed essential.
Here are 10 of the most important concepts that you should remember when practicing Tai Chi. By being able to remember these concepts, you’ll be it able to fully understand and appreciate the forms that are performed. Read on!
Concept #1
Tai Chi is performed with emphasis on every movement. The manner with which every pattern is done must be harmoniously connected with one another. In terms of motion in the body, it must always begin from the spine, going down to the waist, move lower to the legs and then the feet. It simultaneously goes up the body then to the arms, hands and last, the fingers.
Concept #2
Maintain your shoulders dropped so that any tension will be eliminated. Shoulders that are always propped are said to have overflowing tension.
Concept #3
Maintain a straight wrists in order to keep your arms and hands supple and open to energy. This allows the energy to flow, not just through your arms, but is an important part of learning to move the energy throughout the body.
Concept #4
Slow motion is one of the best ways to achieve mastery. It can never be overlooked because if the slow rate of your motions is performed with continuous smoothness, this will improve the connection of your body to your environment.
Concept #5
Do not allow external forces to distract you and lose touch. Always stay connected with every instruction by listening carefully to the feeling of your body so that you can overcome any distraction.
Concept #6
Keep your knees bent during the entire form. Your height must not bob up and down. Although, there are some considerations, your height must still be maintained at a constant level.
Concept #7
The power of Tai Chi travels parallel from its movement. It will start from the feet, going up the legs, being directed through the waist, to be expressed finally, by the hands and fingers.
Concept #8
Your head must be maintained as if it was suspended on air.
Concept #9
Your chest must be depressed and your back should be raised but this must be done without exerting any force.
Concept #10
Your breath must be focused on your dan-tien (your body?s center of gravity); this is done smoothly without the exertion of force. In the long run, you?ll likely be synchronizing your breathing with the movements that you make.
Always heed the advice of your teacher regarding the proper rate of inhaling and exhaling.
The last thing you ever want to get is bad or outdated information on Tai Chi and health. Tai Chi is gaining popularity these as it is believed to promote personal energy for self healing and wellbeing when applied. Now, you?ll never have to worry about misinformed after you visit Los Angeles Tai Chi Classes.
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