| Home | TaijiQuan Outline| Opening - Comparison and choice| Opening - Stage of the evolution|
| Diraction TaijiQuan |

Design - Taiji Opening: There are many branches in the genealogy of Taiji Quan. Although it is difficult to understand or study all the various forms of this genealogy, it is possible to research the essence of Taiji Quan, what is common to all branches. All forms of Taiji Quan begin with the Taiji Opening, and then differentiate according to genealogy. This Taiji Opening is the Fundamental element shared by all forms; the degree of recognition and understanding of the Opening determines one’s level of Taiji Quan.

In studying form, Level 1 consists of imitation. Research of essence through analysis and comparison is Level 2. The pursuit of evolution through comparison and selection is level 3. The acquisition of form, stopping at Level 1, is reliance upon others, reliance upon the authority of style. Level 2 brings about mind-and-body consciousness. Level 3 is the practice of law, beyond style and form.

Taiji Opening: There is a General Instruction Method, which aims at the acquisition of basic form (Level 1.) This style of instruction is suited to the ordinary public, and to the instruction of teachers. As in all Traditional performing arts, this style of instruction is intended for the preservation of form; its aim is different from that of Combative Martial Arts, in which the evolution of technique is the target of training. Form acquired through this method is then subject to repetition in practice. Level 1 of the Taiji Opening is an easy instruction method suitable for the general public, and exercise hall management.

Taiji Opening (1) Generally it is performed most popular Taiji which it simplified.
            

A system of actual, physical proof aims at research of essence (Level 2.) General study begins with imitation of shape, imprinting shape understanding; this ends with external recognition, shallow view, and repetition practice. A comprehensive depth understanding is made possible through research of essence. Universal fact, based on actual, physical proof, explains the difference in form, and the phenomenon of shape.
Taiji Opening (2) Posture is the base of motion; a posture is a point, and motion is a line from point to point. A line with a clear relation to a point clarifies upper and lower sides, right and left, etc. The establishment of direction leads to the elucidation of movement.

Natural stance

Center Axis

Three Joints

Single Weight

Side Step



Left Sway



Right Swing 


Sway Axis




Relative Balance



Pull Back



Flip Forward

Hanging Up



Push Forward



Push Down
    
Ritualized Taiji opening
Taiji based on a posture

Refer toWeb - Essence of Taiji Quan
     DVD - Taiji Quan Strategy


| Home | TaijiQuan Outline| Opening - Comparison and choice| Opening - Stage of the evolution|
| Diraction TaijiQuan |

copyright of 蘇東成 Su Dong-Chen  2008, July
Translator: Matt Irvin <irvinstein@hotmail.com>