Practicing Tai Chi

When Yinyang is in a state of balance, it circulates smoothly like a balanced wheel rotating freely spinning on its axle.
When Yinyang is not harmonious, it stagnates and rotates in a disorderly dysfunctional fashion.

Practice is to balance Qi in terms of a Yinyang internal-external relationship.

As Tai Chi theory points out;
“There can be no yin without Yang and no Yang without yin.”
We condition our Qi intentionally (directing using the mind’s Yi) or through our indifference and neglect.

If we practice Tai Chi Chuan for 25 minutes “dynamically”, as continuous externalized physical motion, without internal energetic interruption (attempting to maintain a high level of yinyang balance), we should also practice 25 minutes of seated mediation* in an externally “static” posture with our attention directed internally toward our Qi movement.

One practice is Yang. The other yin. Today, because Tai Chi Chuan and Qigong have been overly westernized as mere calisthenics, the full practice is not embraced. People disregard their mental health.

“Embrace the yin to support the yang”.

Image: Abdominal Breathing aka Dan Tian Breathing is a practice to dwell spiritually in the body’s still point. Here Qi is expanded and contracted in all dimensions, starting at the Center.

*Some practice this as Zhan Zhuang; post standing, a chanting practice, or prayer (mantra).