Higher Levels of Development in Taiji Exercise (with image)

Once you become confident and capable in the Taiji forms, you can begin to apply greater emphasis on the internal aspect of the art.

Through studying Taiji, you build an awareness of a universal energy that surrounds and permeates you. The training methods help you to access this universal energy like tuning into your favorite radio station and once you receive a strong signal, your movements will begin to flow powerfully.

When the body is soft and flexible, this energy is directed to the extremities in wave-like-pulses, similar to the action of cracking a whip. This wave starts from the feet, travels to the waist and radiates from this central hub, spiraling through the limbs. Unique twisting actions found in Chen Style Taiji encourage this energy to travel through the limbs and enhances this flow naturally. This process is only possible once your body is loose and is why so much emphasis is placed on relaxation during the first phase of training. Click here to learn Pulmonary Heart Disease in TCM.
 
Once internal energy flow is experienced, the martial application behind the movements becomes clearer. This energy appears gradually and enhances the momentum and fluidity of every action performed. It will take a white for you to reach this level of understanding, but it is worth every ounce of practice. As you approach this stage in your training, you will begin to see the usefulness of Taiji and its effectiveness in a self-defence situation.
 
During this phase of training, your state of mind will play a vital role in your progress. You must first develop the belief that you are capable of performing the movements and with this confidence the seed of intention is sown. If nurtured, it will grow to have a profound influence, not just on your movement, but also in all aspects of your life. Taiji promotes a positive outlook and encourages an enthusiasm for life that opens the door for you to explore the furthest reaches of your potential. This outlook will reflect in your behaviour towards others and reinforces the feeling ofbeing connected, not isolated from the world you live in.