Principle 1

Question 1

State Principle 1

Answer 1

Set the Shoulders by gently drawing the scapulae inward and downward. Loosen and suspend the Shoulder and Elbow joints. You must strictly maintain this posture while practising Taichi.

Question 2

(P1) Qi Pathway

Answer 2

Chi is rooted in the foot, stems from the legs, is centered in the dantien, stored in the back and then discharged to the fingertips.

Question 3

(P1) Don’t Store Tension in the Arms and Shoulders.

Answer 3

Tension gathered in the arms and shoulders blocks discharge of energy from the thoracic spine, where it is stored. Therefore, internal energy cannot be applied martially (NB: with physical movement alone. Correct structure is the key.

Question 4

(P1) Why Limit Independent Arm Movement?

Answer 4

This creates a demand for more expression from the Spine and core body.

Question 5

(P1) When the Opponent Moves, You Move first. How?

Answer 5

Eliminating tension in the arms and shoulder muscles allows for greater reflexive speed in the hands. The aim is to develop powerful hands that feel soft but hit like a ball on a chain.

Question 6

(P1) How do we hold the Shoulders, Arms and Scapulae doing the form?

Answer 6

The scapulae are drawn in and down, to lie flat against the back. Do not spread them during the form. Setting the shoulders positions them solidly on top of the ribcage. The arms loosen, so they can be directed by the shoulders and spine.

Question 7

(P1) How does Principle 1 feel?

Answer 7

When we do it correctly, the arms have a hanging sensation, as if pinned to the shoulders and the elbows will feel suspended like a weight from a fishing line. The clavicles must be straight and level at all times. The scapulae stey fixed, but not forced, throughout the form. Imagine your ms are fixed to your shoulder blades.