| Feature Article Points to Look For in Your Practice
The old masters referred to the form as the structure.
Learning the Tai Chi form is really building the structure. When you practise, each
posture should embody the principles of Tai Chi, such as, rounded limbs, straight spine,
distinction of the solid from the empty, relaxed muscles, etc. Once you have achieved this
stage, you gradually incorporate the more advanced requirements, such as, continuity in
the form, whole body moving as one unit, the mind directing the movement, and the unity of
the internal and external. Practising every day and adhering to these principles will
guarantee a strong body and a calm mind.
 The slow, even movements of Tai Chi gradually help you to
accumulate qi (chi) and enhance your spirit. This is how we train the internal and
external. If your practice is too fast, you will not achieve the above. Instead, your
energy will be dispersed and the internal and external will not be harmonised.
When you practise, you should feel that your whole body is relaxed, comfortable and
connected. Use your intention, that is, your mind, to direct your movement. Feel your
spine and waist as the axis completely centered. What the mind conceives, the body
expresses. The more you practise this way, the more you will understand the meaning of
coordinating the internal with the external.
Next, you try to make your movements light, flexible and soft like cotton. Famous Tai Chi
martial artist, Yang Cheng Fu, was a large man but he could move with great dexterity. He
could follow his opponent's energy, as if he was his opponent's shadow. However, his touch
could be as heavy as a mountain. It was reported that his power was so great that two
fingers placed on his opponent's forehead was enough to render him unconscious.
Once you have developed a good understanding of the form, Push Hands training is
invaluable. This practice enables you to correct weaknesses from your form. It adds
substance to your movements. It trains advanced coordination, leg strength, good posture
under pressure and deep relaxation. It also develops sensitivity and Pung Jin (ward off
spring force), which can only be correctly developed through partner work.
Students sometimes think that one only needs to practise Push Hands if one is interested
in martial arts. Push Hands is essential for developing Tai Chi martial art, but it is
still only one aspect of the total system. All students will benefit from practising Push
Hands because it has a direct bearing on the correct application of Tai Chi principles and
strengthening one's foundation.
Learning Tai Chi is a journey. The journey itself is enjoyable and beneficial. Naturally,
one will have a wider view of the landscape as one moves up the mountain. The important
point is that you have set out on the journey.
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