Page 37 - Simplifying T'ai Chi Rev3 2017

Chapter 11 Maxims For Enjoyable Safe Practice 97

CHAPTER 11

MAXIMS FOR ENJOYABLE SAFE

PRACTICE

General Movement Maxims

Always remember to follow the basic movement and posture guidance for
standing, stepping, sinking the Kua, etc., together with the maxim of the Six
Harmonies. This will help to ensure that your practice will be always safe and
enjoyable.
When you are moving from one stance position to another, try to maintain an even,
level height and avoid bobbing up and down, and don't lean when moving backward
or forward.

Above all maintain good posture and be aware of it. Don’t rush any movement.
Perfect your movement, harmonising with your posture, stance and breathing. Feel
the essence that this combination contains.
As you learn your T'ai Chi you will discover that there are many other factors
relating to movement. Here are some of them.

Focused and Calm – Empty Mind

When you perform T'ai Chi you should be focused and calm. Many beginners think
that this means just forgetting about work or the kids and dreaming about a
forthcoming holiday. No it doesn't. T'ai Chi is a disciplined art and requires
concentration.

When you start a session the first thing you must do is to empty your mind to rid
yourself of the distractions of daily problems. Then, using the deep breathing of Qi
Gong, start to focus on each breath, loosening your joints and becoming aware of
the build up of Qi. It is this focus that creates a link between your mind and the
internal organs as your breathing oxygenates free-flowing blood and the diaphragm
movement massages the other internal organs.
Concentrate on your body and the form - not the problems of the world!

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