How to learn Taiji in the Beginning

In the beginning, it is important to learn the basics. Warm-up exercises are studied and begin to promote well-being once simple breathing techniques are employed. Following these initial Warm-up routines, silk-reeling energy exercises are introduced. These exercises form the foundation of the longer routines and will help the student to understand the characteristic movements and techniques used. Each exercise is typically undertaken in a fixed position and allows the student to experience a basic level of relaxation and fluidity that will form the basis of their understanding. When learning these techniques, you will become immediately aware just how subtle the movements are and how challenging, both physically and mentally, Taiji can be. This introduction to Taiji is essential and will give students an appreciation of what is involved when studying the more complicated routines. Click here to learn Pulmonary Encephalopathy in TCM.

As a beginner, it is important to understand what Taiji is, what the fundamental principles are and also what you want to achieve from your practice. If you want good health and a little light exercise, then you need not practice so hard. However, if you want to reach higher levels, then the effort and dedication required will be greater. This is an individual choice and whatever path you take you will accumulate benefits.

I have found through my own teaching that many of my students start practising Taiji as a way to relax and unwind. However, after a short period of study, they begin to experience some of the early benefits and then wish to explore a little further. During this early phase, you should begin to develop the ability to relax, both physically and mentally. Movements are performed slowly and softly to draw your attention to areas of stiffness within the body. Once this stiffness is recognised, you can begin to eliminate it and re-educate your body to remain relaxed and to use softness in preference to stiffness. Click here to learn Tuberculosis in TCM.

Initially, you will find it difficult to remain relaxed and loose, since stiffness dominates every action you undertake. We are all taught to use stiffness from a young age and, unfortunately, this automatic response restricts the circulation of blood and energy. The effect on our circulation by tensing the muscles is like clasping your hands tightly around a hosepipe and squeezing until the flow of water is reduced. This harmful automatic response affects our physical and mental health and must be altered if the maximum benefits from Taiji practice are to be achieved. Once our hands (muscles) relax, the water begins to flow naturally again and circulation is restored to normal.

By correcting a student's understanding and letting them experience what relaxation is, they will begin to gain benefits. It is not easy to make this concept clear and even students who have practised Taiji for many years may not fully understand it. Click here to learn Atelectasis in TCM.

With regular training and careful guidance, you will slowly apply this understanding to each movement. Every action will become softer until all movements are made in total relaxation. By heightening your awareness, you will be able to apply this principle of relaxation to all areas of your life.