The 10 Commandments of the Tai Chi Exercise


  1. Assume basic posture - conscious of centreline, alignment of waist, limbs and head - sink low and wide and rise high along centreline at the same time

  2. Be conscious of coordination of body parts in movements: 1. the basis, 2. central and 3. leading body parts

  3. Move from the ground basis, conscious of gravity and balance.

  4. Be aware of the changing of yin and yang, forceful and empty, in feet and body parts as movements evolve

  5. Emphasize centrifugal power in rounded, curved movements around centre

  6. Proceed in a steady flow, but mark beginnings and ends of each meaningful movement - note how the end of one movement is the starting point of the next one

  7. Stretch without stretching to the full, let the energy complete the move

  8. Keep a broad stance with space between your legs, open groin to the energy from the ground

  9. Coordinate movements and breathing so that you breathe out when you make a forceful movement and breathe lightly into your stomach between these bursts.

  10. Relax and enjoy without need of achievement, give yourself time