Principle #7 - Coordinate Upper and Lower Body

The meaning of coordination between the upper and lower body is written in the Tai Chi Chuan classics: “The root is in the feet, released through the legs, controlled by the waist, and materialized in the hands and fingers.” The root of all movement lies in the feet. (providing stability and initiating force). The Power is transmitted through the legs. The waist governs and harmonizes the motion, acting as the central axis and commander. The energy is finally expressed through the fingers, which manifests the technique outwardly. This reflects the idea that movement in Tai Chi is generated from the ground up, flowing smoothly through the whole body as one unified action. The force must be continuous and integrated, not isolated or fragmented. Every part of the body must work together. There should be no lag or isolated movement; only then is true coordination achieved. If any part fails to follow, the internal energy cannot be properly expressed. Often, beginners focus mainly on their hands but in Tai Chi you should not punch or block using only your arms. Instead, feel your power come from rooting/grounding your feet to the earth, and then the energy can pass up through your hips to your waist and out through your hands with your eyes following your hands. Tai Chi plays to our (internal) strengths rather than our (external) weaknesses. Pay attention to how the energy is moving in your body. The most powerful way to feel this is to stand in meditation grounding to the earth while allowing the Qi to rise to the crown of your head. So simple and so powerful. Sign up to receive all 10 Essential Principles of Tai Chi to your Inbox: https://www.taiflow.com/10-Essential-Principles-of-Tai-Chi