structure of a taiji class

At the beginning of each Taiji class we do the five loosening exercises from Master Huang Xingxian. With the loosening exercises we learn to release tension, bring the body into correct alignment and move gently.

At the same time we begin to bring the mind out of the busy consciousness into stillness and then even further inward.

A first step for this is to concentrate on the inner movements of the body.

Beginners first learn Master Huang's short form, which is based on Zheng Manqing's 37-movement form.

In each Taiji lesson we look at one detail in more detail.

In practising the form, we learn to perceive the inner forces rising through the body, while the body itself is still sinking further and aligning itself.

Advanced students learn the long form (108 movements of Yang Cheng-Fu) and also practice Master Huang's Quickfist, a faster form.

Also called Tuishou (pushing hands).
There are eight basic pushing hands exercises, all of which are practised in every class.
These partner exercises are performed very sensitively and without force, in as deep a state of mind as possible. We learn to feel the energisation and activation of the muscles in ourselves, but also in our partners, and to establish as gentle and good a connection as possible through the hands.

The final part of the Pushing Hands exercises are the so-called applications.
At the beginning of the applications, one tries to relax the body completely and to yield to the oncoming force of the partner without resistance as soon as one feels the finest pressure.

This requires not only well-rooted feet and a stable stance, but also a deepened state of mind and a refinement of one's own taji.

Each class ends with a meditation of about 15 minutes.
Meditation is an important and integral part of inner training (Neigong).