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Yi leads the Chi

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In Tai Chi the Yi (mind) leads the Chi (energy).

In other words, when you are doing your form your mind which involves your attention and intention should  initiate a  movement.

Using this concept avoids the problem of moving from posture to posture aimlessly. And if you move without the Yi leading the Chi then you are not doing Tai Chi.

If your mind does wander which is a natural occurence for beginners – focus on your dan tien. This will allow you to become centred again and also makes it easier for your Yi to lead the Chi.

Try this concept the next time you do your form and let me know how it feels.

Yellow Dot Tai Chi

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Here’s a good way of making sure your body is centred when facing forward.

Buy a yellow stick-on-dot  from a stationary store. They’re usually sold in packets and are about the size of a five or ten cent coin.

Why a yellow dot? Because it stands out against a black ‘t’ shirt or dark coloured top. If you wear a light coloured top then find a coloured dot that stands out.

Stick it on your ‘t’ shirt where your belly button is located.

Now practice your techinque, e.g. brush knee, twist step, in front of a mirror. At the end of the posture look at your reflection in the mirror and see which direction the yellow stick-on-dot is facing.

If it’s facing on an angle then you are not centred.

If you are a teacher of Tai Chi why not try this method in class. Apart from its novelty value it will give students a visual cue to see if they are centred and facing the correct direction.

Oh, by the way, when you finish practice make sure you take it off because it will look a bit weird walking down the street with a yellow dot on your belly button.