Basic Principles of Yang Style Tai Chi

  • Posture is erect and relaxed. Breathe slowly and deeply.
  • Sink down in legs to a comfortable position and maintain the same level during 95 percent of the form.
  • Move as though you are in water, fluidly, with a slight sense of resistance.
  • First to move is the intention, eyes, head, then torso, then step, then shift weight.
  • Movement is continuous; no stopping between the forms.
  • Bow stance is the most stable stance, with feet shoulder width apart (left to right and front to back), and the back foot should be at 45 degree angle.
  • Feet move in and then back out in the Bow Stance (most of the time).
  • Shift weight off the full (weight bearing) leg before pivoting.
  • Lower body (legs) is rooted to the ground; upper body moves like the branches of a tree; feel your center at the Dantien (center of being).
  • Focus on the Chi: Feel it as you move.

    (Author unknown)