Tai Ji Qigong – Transitions
From the TCM and TJQ point of view the body is a “holistic entity”, and scientific in nature. To develop one section of the body while ignoring another will have a detrimental affect overall. Therefore to design a comprehensive exercise routine for the individual is very important. TQJ gives one the opportunity to cultivate a system of sensitivity and awareness which is almost unique when combined with Zhan Zhuang.
The Preparatory Exercises give the clue to this study. These preps evolve over the years to contribute a mindful and physical experience which people not involved in the art are completely unaware.
Please note how professional football players performing their warm ups. Tai Ji Qigong’s assist development of form by the refinement of dynamics; this is derived by the single minded concentration to direct the body. The exercise gestures are interrelated, and when amalgamated with attention to detail, will have a mutual effect throughout one’s whole system.
Tai Ji Qigong – Training
Have an upright and balanced centre, enables one to rotate the body without tilting. Providing the head is held correctly and the eyes level you can control the situation with even the slightest change. The waist is the place which directs the action. The classics say, “The root is at the feet, movement is generated from the legs, mastered or controlled by the waist and manifested or expressed from the fingers”. When you keep your centre and are balanced, you can control your waist easily with your mind. When you are tilted, your mind will be scattered and confused. If you do not have a calm and clear mind to make good judgements, the Qi cannot be led to the desired place to work effectively.
Being balanced and centred the body can be loose and soft, enabling one to act with lightness and agility. The caveat being capable of defeating your opponent will depend wholly on how much Gongfu (work) you have put into your training. The use of the eyes and head is probably as important as directing the feet.