The 10 Principle of Tai Chi - Principle #1 - Head Upright, Spirit Rising

Head Upright, Spirit Rising First, let's define shen: Shen is usually translated as “spirit”, but that can be a confusing word in English so another translation, could be “focused awareness.” To enable shen to rise to the top of the head, it must be held upright without using strength. Blood and qi cannot flow smoothly when you force your head to stay upright with strength. So although there is the will and intention (yi) to let the spirit rise to the top, if it is forced, then it will be block from rising, and you will not attain the mental clarity that you are seeking. Maintain a soft floating intention. This practice usually produces an energized uplifting feeling. Usually, you can see the brightness of a person’s shen reflected in the clarity of their eyes. When you stand upright, but also relax, when the head feels like it is being gently pulled upright, as if by an invisible string, then the mind will be clear. And that’s the first of the Ten Essentials. Sign up to receive all 10 Essential Principles of Tai Chi to your Inbox: https://www.taiflow.com/10-Essential-Principles-of-Tai-Chi