Tai chi is often called an energy art. This is because it centers around the unseen energies which makes up your life force. There are 13 elemental positions often referred to as postures which are at the base of all tai chi practice. Those 13 “postures” include 8 separate but linked energy forces and 5 different types of movements or steps (directions). To understand why tai chi is known as the energy art, let’s get to know the 8 energies of this powerful martial arts and meditation practice a little better.
The 4 primary tai chi energies are:
1. Peng – this means to “Ward Off” an opponent or force
2. Liu – when you “Roll Back” you redirect an attacker or force
3. Ji – this energy will “Press” a considerable amount of your force into a small target area on your opponent
4. An – when you use the tai chi “Push” energy, you absorb an incoming force or attack, and then push it back onto your opponent
All of these 4 main tai chi energies or forces build upon your own internal energy. And while tai chi was developed as a martial art, performing these slow, deliberate movements can also deliver mental health benefits, anti-aging properties and physical well-being as a non-martial art exercise that young and old alike can practice.
The next 4 tai chi energy sources are not as commonly employed as the first 4. However, they are still needed to achieve physical and mental harmony and health. They are:
1. Cai – this means to “Pull” something or grab it with your fingers. It is also sometimes referred to as “Large Roll Back”, where you employ an up-and-down movement to unbalance your opponent or some attacking force
2. Lie – when you “Split” your energy in tai chi, you send it out in 2 different directions
3. Zhou – the “Elbow” strike or defensive move keeps some independent force from controlling you
4. Kao – this “Bumping” or “Shoulder” energy force is also known as “Lean Forward”, using your total body weight behind the force of your shoulder
Remember that these 8 essential tai chi energy forces are already inside you. When you learn the correct postures and movements, you unleash this powerful energy. When used in conjunction with the 5 basic tai chi steps or directions, these simple to perform energy gates can be opened to deliver physical and mental benefits, serenity, longevity and wisdom.