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Taichi Chuan as a martial art is unique. It is different from other systems in that it does not allow sacrificing physical health to achieve so-called combat Kung-Fu.
Its uniqueness is also manifested in its unique training in that the focuses are three internal aspects: Yi, Qi and Rooting.
Yi is the mind and consciousness. Yi exists in each cell of your fiber and not just in your brain. In Taichi Chuan training Yi is activity and body is the instrument of the activity.
Yi training requires slowness and quietness in movement. The method is to listen and to feel. The result is each part of the body becoming alive and alert.
The movement is deliberately slow, extremely soft and thoroughly relaxed. Slow is to serve the purpose of being fast. Soft is of being hard. Relaxed is of being calm.
Once your Yi fully activated and enhanced, you will achieve acute sensitivity and awareness. Each hair on the skin can serve as an antenna and each part of the body can fight as a hand. Your body and your movement are totally under your control. You finally become your own master.
Qi is the life force. Qi is also the driving force of all movements. Qi always follows Yi to provide energy and power. The classic says: Wherever Yi goes, Qi flows. Qi training requires Yi involvement and Dan Tian participation.
There are three steps in building up abundant and powerful Qi. First is to activate Dantian to generate Qi by practicing Dantian Reverse Breathing. Second is to mobilizing Dantian to circulate Qi by doing Dantian Multi-Angle Rotation. Third is to cooperate internal Qi with external movement by exercising Dantian Coiling 24 Movements.
Buy "Dantian Revealed" DVD.
Once you've mastered all the techniques of Qi you'll be able to multiply your physical power.
Rooting is the foundation for all martial arts. Taichi Chuan training emphasizes the central equilibrium that means centered, balanced and rooted. In Taichi movements you relax Kua, sink Qi down and find your rooting with each finished posture. (Read my article "Taking a Stand" that is published in Inside Kung-Fu March 2008 Vol.36, No.3).
(sun anguang)
