12 Essential Elements of Tai Chi Chuan

Question 1

Shoulders - Essential Elements

Answer 1

1. Both shoulders should be balanced and in alignment.
2. The body should be squared.
3. The shoulders are sunk and relaxed.
4. The elbows are weighted down.
5. The wrist are smooth and straight.

Question 2

Chest - Essential Elements

Answer 2

1. Hollowing the Chest
2. Head is supported from within
3. Back is raised
4. Waist is relaxed and loose.
5. Abdomen is without tension.

Question 3

Legs - Essential Elements

Answer 3

1. Both legs must be coordinated.
2. The crotch must be opened and rounded.
3. Knees must be bent
4. Footwork must be soft and agile
5. Differentiate between substantial and insubstantial

Question 4

Eight Other Points to observe

Answer 4

1. The Kua should be flexible.
2. The knees should rotate outwards.
3. The knees should be pointing downwards.
4. Sink the Chi to the Dantien
5. There should be a folding line at the navel around the waist.
6. The vertebrae two inches above the coccyx should be flexible and move with every movement.
7. The area around the shoulder blades should be rounded and extended.
8. All movements should be directed by the waist.

Question 5

Sinking the Qi is critical

Answer 5

If sinking of the Chi to the Dantien is not achieved, the basis of Tai Chi Chuan will not be realised. This point allows you to square the body, loosen the waist and increase the flexibility of the Kua. It also allows:
1. The feet to be more relaxed, balanced, centered and rooted.
2. the body to be more relaxed with a better flow of Chi with no breakage.
3. to better assess and capitalise on an opportunity.