Taiji Notes

Taiji can be translated as  Big Energy or Ultimate Weapon

Originally to Cultivate Qi  or  Cultivate Vitality for self defense.

Now widely practiced for Stress Reduction or Body Systems Homeostasis.

Historical origins are lost in legend.

Taiji systems were held as family or clan secrets for martial prowess and defense.

In general, in seeking power, people looked to the surrounding natural world

to capture the powers of the natural world and the ‘unseen’ or spiritual world.

 

Both natural world and martial images are evident in the names of the moves.

Principals:

Power stems from the legs
Is directed by the waist
Shows in the hands

 

‘Jing’:   Mental quietness or serenity
‘Song’: Relaxation
‘Chen’: *SINKING*
‘Huo’:  Agility

 

Movement Control:
Slow movements  combined with
Gentle attention       *Integrates mind & body*

Body Structure:
Upright posture
More space for internal organs

Internal Components:
Softness in the joints
Mental quietness (non-conceptual presence)
*CONTINUAL THREAD OF ATTENTION*

6 Harmonies

3 external harmonies            3 internal harmonies

HIPS & SHOULDERS              HEART & INTENTION
ELBOWS & KNEES                  INTENTION & QI
HANDS & FEET                         QI & MOVEMENT