外三合 Three External Harmonies

外三合 Three External Harmonies

The term 外三合 (Wài Sān Hé), as you mentioned, refers specifically to the Three External Harmonies in the context of Tai Chi practice, focusing on the connections between the shoulders and kua, elbows and knees, and hands and feet. These relationships are crucial for achieving fluid, coordinated movements and effective power generation in Tai Chi. Here’s a breakdown of each component and how they work together:

The Three External Harmonies (外三合):

1. Shoulders and Kua (肩與胯):

   • Connection: The shoulders should move in harmony with the kua (hips) to ensure that the upper body is coordinated with the lower body.
   • Function: This connection allows for smooth transitions in movement and helps maintain balance and stability. When the shoulder rotates or shifts, the corresponding kua should also adjust, creating a synchronized motion that facilitates the flow of energy (Qi).
   • Application: Practicing this harmony enables more efficient power generation, as the force from the legs can effectively transfer through the torso to the arms.

2. Elbows and Knees (肘與膝):

   • Connection: The elbows should align with the knees to ensure that movements are grounded and stable.
   • Function: This alignment helps maintain the center of gravity and balance while allowing for fluid motion. When the elbow bends or extends, the corresponding knee should mirror that action, ensuring that the body remains balanced and aligned.
   • Application: This harmony is particularly important for strikes and defensive movements, where coordination of the upper and lower limbs contributes to effective energy transfer and structural integrity.

3. In Tai Chi, the alignment of elbows and knees is crucial for maintaining proper posture, balance, and energy flow throughout the body. Here’s how this relationship works and how to achieve proper alignment:

   Elbow and Knee Alignment Principles:

   1. Vertical Connection:

      • The elbows and knees should maintain a vertical relationship in many movements. This means that when the elbow bends or lowers, the corresponding knee should mirror the action.
      • For example, when the elbow sinks downward, the knee should also slightly bend or lower to maintain balance and coordination. This ensures that the upper and lower body are synchronized.

   2. Directional Harmony:

      • When the elbow moves forward or backward, the corresponding knee should follow in the same direction. For example, if you extend your right elbow forward in a push or strike, the right knee should also advance in that direction to maintain balance and transfer energy.
      • This connection ensures that the movement is unified and the body’s force is directed properly.

   3. Relaxation and Flexibility:

      • Both the elbow and knee joints must remain relaxed and flexible during movements. Tension in either the elbow or knee can disrupt the flow of energy and cause misalignment.
      • The elbow should not lock or stiffen, and the knee should not extend fully to prevent hyperextension. This relaxed state helps with smooth transitions and prevents injury.

   4. Alignment in Posture:

      • In many Tai Chi postures, especially in stances like Bow Stance (弓步) or Empty Stance (虛步), the alignment of the elbow with the knee helps maintain structural integrity.
      • For instance, in Bow Stance, if your front knee bends, the corresponding elbow (on the same side as the forward leg) should align in a way that the energy can move smoothly from the ground (through the foot) up through the leg, knee, torso, and out through the arm and hand.
      • Similarly, when you turn or rotate, the knee should follow the elbow's movement to maintain unity in motion.

   5. Balance and Stability:

      • Proper elbow and knee alignment helps you stay rooted and balanced. The elbow should never drift too far away from the knee because this can cause instability and reduce the effectiveness of your posture.
      • For example, if the elbow extends too far from the body's center while the knee remains static, it creates an imbalance in the movement. The energy distribution becomes uneven, which weakens the overall structure.

   Elbow and Knee Alignment in Tai Chi does not mean that the elbow should always be placed directly above the knee in a strict vertical line. Instead, this principle refers to the coordination and harmony between the elbows and knees in terms of timing, positioning, and movement.

   What Elbow and Knee Alignment Means:

   1. Harmonious Movement:

      • The elbow and knee should move in harmony with each other. This means that when you move your elbow, the corresponding knee should adjust or move in response to maintain balance and structure.
      • For example, when the elbow sinks or bends, the knee should often soften or bend slightly to maintain the body's overall alignment.

   2. Connection of Energy (勁):

      • The energy (jing, 勁) that starts from the feet (specifically from Yongquan, 湧泉) should pass through the knees, hips, and waist, and eventually reach the elbows and hands.
      • Proper alignment ensures that the energy flows smoothly from the lower body to the upper body. If the elbows and knees are misaligned, it can block or weaken the energy flow.

   3. Balance and Stability:

      • Elbow and knee alignment helps maintain the body's balance and stability. While they may not always be directly above or below one another, their movements must correspond to keep the body's structure strong.
      • For instance, when you step forward with your knee, your elbow should not lag too far behind, as this would create an imbalance. The elbow should adjust to the knee’s position, but not necessarily be placed directly above it.

   When the Elbow and Knee Are Not Vertically Aligned:

   In some Tai Chi movements, the elbow and knee are not vertically aligned but are still coordinated. Here are a few examples:

   1. Bow Stance (弓步):

      • In a bow stance, the front knee bends forward while the back leg is straight. The elbows might extend forward in a push or strike. The elbow does not sit vertically above the knee but remains connected in timing and movement.
      • As you bend the knee forward, the elbow follows by extending or adjusting forward, creating a coordinated whole-body movement.

   2. Ward Off (掤):

      • In Ward Off, the front knee bends slightly as you step forward, but the elbow might extend outward in a defensive posture. In this case, the elbow is not above the knee, but the connection between them in terms of movement and force remains intact.

   3. Repulse Monkey (倒攆猴):

      • As you step back with one leg, the corresponding arm moves back as well. The elbow and knee move in opposite directions to create balance and smooth backward movement, without needing to be aligned vertically.

   How to Practice Elbow and Knee Alignment:

   1. Focus on Timing:

      • Make sure that your elbow and knee move in harmony. When your knee bends, your elbow should respond either by sinking, rising, or extending, depending on the movement. The key is that they move together in coordinated timing.

   2. Maintain the Internal Energy Connection:

      • Remember that proper elbow and knee alignment ensures that energy flows through the body without interruption. Focus on the sensation of energy moving from your feet through your knees, hips, and spine, up to your elbows and hands.
      • Avoid breaking this energy flow by misaligning your joints.

   3. Avoid Overextension:

      • Be careful not to overextend either the elbow or the knee. Overextending the elbow without coordinating with the knee can cause a loss of balance and make the movement less stable.

   Conclusion:

   Elbow and knee alignment in Tai Chi is about coordinating their movement to maintain balance, energy flow, and structure—not about keeping them directly above or below each other. As long as the movements of the elbows and knees are synchronized and the energy is connected, the alignment is correct. Their positions will vary depending on the movement, but they should always support each other to create a unified whole.

   1. Check Your Posture:

      • In every Tai Chi movement, pause to observe your body position. Is your elbow in line with the knee on the same side of your body? Are they moving in coordination? Make small adjustments to align them.

   2. Move with Intention:

      • When you move your elbow, consciously think about how your knee should follow, and vice versa. If the knee bends or shifts, your elbow should reflect that change. This helps with energy transfer and balance.

   3. Feel the Connection:

      • While practicing, pay attention to the sensation of energy moving from your elbow down through your body to your knee, or from your knee up to your elbow. The connection should feel natural and smooth.

   4. Slow Practice:

      • Slow, mindful practice of forms is one of the best ways to develop proper alignment. Move slowly to feel how the elbow and knee are connected and how changes in one affect the other.

   5. Rooting Through the Knee:

      • The knee helps root the body to the ground, while the elbow expresses energy outward. Ensuring that your knee is properly aligned with your elbow allows this rooting to happen effectively, enhancing stability and strength in your movements.

   Example in Practice:

   • Push Hands (推手): In push hands practice, you often need to maintain a stable structure while moving dynamically with your partner. The elbow and knee must stay in harmony to avoid collapsing under pressure or losing balance. When you press forward with your elbow, your knee should support this action, helping you remain stable and connected to the ground.

   • Cloud Hands (雲手): In this movement, as your arms circle and your elbows move, your knees should shift and bend in harmony with the arm movements. The knees help guide the weight shifts, while the elbows mirror the flow of the arms.

   Conclusion:

   The elbow and knee alignment in Tai Chi is about creating a connected and unified body. When the elbows and knees are aligned properly, energy can flow smoothly through the body, enhancing balance, stability, and power. Proper alignment requires conscious awareness and relaxed movement, ensuring that the upper and lower body work together seamlessly.

   • Connection: The hands and feet should work together, with movements in the hands reflecting movements in the feet and vice versa.
   • Function: This relationship ensures that the practitioner's intention is directed appropriately through the entire body. The feet provide grounding and stability, while the hands express movement and intention.
   • Application: By coordinating hand and foot movements, practitioners can maintain balance and control during techniques, making it easier to execute movements accurately and powerfully.

4. How to Achieve Proper Elbow and Knee Alignment:

5. In some specific Tai Chi movements, the elbows may move forward while the knees move backward to create a bow-like structure in the body. This action is often used to store energy and create tension that can be released dynamically, generating power through coordinated movement. Let's explore how and why this happens in more detail:

   Understanding the Bow Structure in Tai Chi:

   The "bow" analogy is used in Tai Chi to describe a coiled, stored tension in the body, much like the way a bowstring is pulled back to prepare for release. In this case, the opposite movement of elbows and knees creates this tension, which can be released to generate powerful movements.

   Elbows Moving Forward, Knees Moving Backward:

   1. Creating Tension (Storing Energy):

      • When the elbows move forward and the knees shift slightly backward, it creates a tensional connection between the upper and lower body. This action stores potential energy in the body, much like pulling a bowstring.
      • The kua (hip joints) serve as the central axis of this movement, where the tension is felt between the upper body (shoulders and elbows) and the lower body (hips and knees).
      • This movement helps engage the waist and the core muscles, which play a crucial role in Tai Chi’s power generation by uniting the upper and lower body.

   2. Bow Formation:

      • When the elbows advance forward, they begin to form the "top" of the bow (representing forward energy or intention).
      • As the knees shift slightly backward, they create the "bottom" of the bow (acting as a stabilizing and grounding force).
      • This action forms a curved, tension-filled structure in the body that prepares for either defensive movements (like absorbing an incoming force) or offensive movements (like issuing a strike or push).

   3. Releasing the Bow (Issuing Energy):

      • Once the tension is built up, you can release the energy stored in the bow-like structure by coordinating the movement of the elbows and knees in the same direction again.
      • The knees will then shift forward in unison with the elbows, releasing the stored energy through the body in a smooth and powerful motion, typically leading to a push or strike.

   When is this Applied?:

   This opposite movement of elbows and knees is used in various Tai Chi forms and practices, including:

   1. Fa Jin (發勁):

      • In certain movements where you are preparing to issue explosive power (發勁), you may find yourself drawing the elbows forward while shifting the knees backward. This stores the energy, and when released, results in a powerful issuing of force.

   2. Defensive Movements:

      • When receiving or neutralizing an opponent's force, this bow-like structure allows you to absorb the incoming energy and redirect it. The backward movement of the knees helps stabilize your stance while your elbows can move forward to deflect or control the opponent’s energy.

   3. Transition Movements:

      • During certain transitions between stances, especially when shifting from a more empty stance (虛步) to a bow stance (弓步), you may temporarily move the knees slightly backward while positioning the elbows forward. This creates the right tension for a smooth transition and prepares the body to move into a more stable and powerful posture.

   The Role of the Kua:

   The kua (hips) play a crucial role in connecting the opposite movements of the elbows and knees. The rotation and flexion of the kua help maintain the tension between the upper and lower body, allowing the energy to flow efficiently from the legs to the arms. The kua acts as a pivot point in this bow-like structure, directing how the force is stored and later released.

   Practical Example:

   • Parting the Wild Horse’s Mane (野馬分鬃): In this movement, as you transition from a turning stance to a forward stance, the front elbow may move forward while the corresponding knee remains more grounded and slightly backward. This creates a dynamic tension in the body, preparing to deliver a powerful outward push with the arms.

   • Single Whip (單鞭): In the preparation for "Single Whip," the elbows can extend forward, while the knees and hips adjust to create a stable, grounded structure. This slight backward movement in the knees while the elbows are forward helps "draw the bow" before releasing into the full whip motion.

   Balancing Forward and Backward Movements:

   While the bow-like structure requires the elbows to move forward and the knees backward temporarily, the key is to balance the tension so that it doesn't compromise your stability. The knees should not move too far back, nor should the elbows move too far forward, as this could lead to overextension and instability.

   Instead, the movement should feel natural and connected, with the whole body working together as a unified system. The backward shift in the knees provides a foundation, while the forward movement of the elbows prepares to issue energy in a coordinated manner.

   Conclusion:

   The opposite movement of elbows moving forward and knees moving backward forms a key component of Tai Chi’s "bow" structure, alloallowing for the storage and release of energy. This is a subtle, powerful technique used to build tension, maintain balance, and generate coordinated movement. It aligns with Tai Chi principles of storing before releasing (蓄而後發) and maintaining harmony between the upper and lower body.

6. Hands and Feet (手與足):In Tai Chi, 手與足合 ("hand and foot coordination") is a fundamental concept that emphasizes the synchronization between the movements of the hands and feet. Proper coordination ensures that the body moves as a unified whole, allowing for efficient energy transmission and balance. Here's how to achieve hand and foot coordination in practice:

   Understanding 手與足合 (Hand and Foot Coordination)

   1. Timing and Synchronization:

      • The hands and feet must move together in harmony. When the hand moves, the corresponding foot should also move. For example, when you step forward with your foot, your hand should advance in unison.
      • This timing ensures that the energy generated from the legs and feet flows up through the body and reaches the hands at the right moment.

   2. Same-Side Coordination:

      • Generally, when practicing Tai Chi, the movements of the hands and feet on the same side of the body should align.
      • For instance, when your right foot steps forward, your right hand extends or pushes forward at the same time. Similarly, if the left foot moves back, the left hand should also pull back or move accordingly.

   3. Energy Connection:

      • The principle of 手與足合 is not just about external movement but also about the internal connection of energy. The force that begins from the foot (Yongquan, 湧泉) should travel up the leg, through the waist (dantian), and into the hand (Lao Gong, 勞宮).
      • This ensures that when your hand strikes, pushes, or deflects, the power is rooted in the ground and supported by the whole body, not just the arm muscles.

   How to Practice 手與足合 (Hand and Foot Coordination)

   1. Start with Simple Movements:

      • Begin by practicing simple Tai Chi postures, focusing on coordinating the movement of your hands and feet. For example, in Brush Knee and Push Step (摟膝拗步), as you step forward with your left foot, your left hand should brush down in a circular motion, while your right hand pushes forward.
      • Pay close attention to the timing. The moment your foot touches the ground, your hand should complete its movement.

   2. Rooting in the Feet:

      • Every hand movement should be rooted in the feet. Before moving your hand, focus on shifting your weight through your legs and into your feet.
      • For example, when performing a forward push, feel the energy moving from your back foot (rooted on the ground) and through your legs, waist, and spine, reaching your hand.

   3. Use the Waist (腰為主宰):

      • The waist acts as the link between the hands and feet. It helps connect and harmonize the upper and lower body movements.
      • When stepping, always turn or rotate your waist to lead the hand and foot movement. For instance, when turning to the left, your waist should guide both the left hand and left foot to move together, creating a smooth flow.

   4. Practice with Slow, Mindful Movements:

      • To develop proper coordination, practice your movements slowly and mindfully. This helps you feel the connection between your hands and feet.
      • As you move your hand, focus on how your weight shifts between your feet and how the movement of your feet supports the action of your hands.

   5. Use Breathing for Coordination:

      • Breath can help synchronize the hands and feet. Inhale as you prepare a movement, and exhale as you complete the movement. This natural rhythm helps unify the body’s actions.

   Examples of 手與足合 in Tai Chi Forms

   1. Brush Knee and Push Step (摟膝拗步):

      • As your foot steps forward, the hand on the same side sweeps downward in a brushing motion while the opposite hand pushes forward. Both hand and foot should complete their movement at the same time.

   2. Parting the Wild Horse’s Mane (野馬分鬃):

      • In this movement, as you step forward with one foot, the corresponding hand moves outward in a parting gesture while the opposite hand pulls back slightly. The hand and foot must move in unison for balance and power.

   3. Cloud Hands (雲手):

      • In this movement, as your hands circle smoothly from side to side, your feet follow in step with your body’s weight shifts. Every time you move a hand, your corresponding foot steps or pivots to maintain harmony.

   4. Single Whip (單鞭):

      • When performing Single Whip, as your foot steps out to the side, your hand also extends outward in a coordinated whip-like motion. The hand and foot should move and settle at the same time.

   Correcting Common Mistakes

   1. Moving Hands and Feet Separately:

      • A common mistake is moving the hands without coordinating the feet. For example, pushing forward with the hands while your feet remain static. This disconnect leads to unbalanced movement and weakens the energy flow.
      • Correction: Make sure that every hand movement is supported by the movement of the corresponding foot, and vice versa. Focus on maintaining a balanced structure.

   2. Over-Relying on the Upper Body:

      • Some practitioners may focus too much on the hand movements, forgetting that the power comes from the legs and feet.
      • Correction: Always initiate movement from the lower body (legs and feet) and transfer that energy up through the body to the hands.

   3. Timing Issues:

      • Another common issue is poor timing, where the hand completes the motion before or after the foot, leading to disjointed movement.
      • Correction: Slow down and practice coordinating the completion of the hand and foot movement at exactly the same time.

      • In many Tai Chi movements, when one hand moves forward and the corresponding foot moves backward, it can still be considered 手與足合 (hand and foot coordination). The key principle is the synchronization and balance between the hands and feet, even if they are moving in opposite directions. This is especially important for maintaining balance, stability, and energy flow throughout the body.

        Here's how this works:

        Opposing Hand and Foot Movement in Tai Chi

        1. Maintaining Balance:

           • When one hand moves forward and the corresponding foot moves backward, this creates a counterbalance, stabilizing the body. This can be particularly useful in movements where you need to shift your weight or maintain a solid stance.
           • The hand moving forward generates energy, while the foot moving back provides a rooted counterbalance, ensuring that you stay grounded.

        2. Connection of Energy (勁):

           • Even though the hand and foot are moving in opposite directions, the internal energy (jing, 勁) still flows in a coordinated manner. The energy can travel from the foot (Yongquan, 湧泉) through the leg, waist, and spine, up to the hand (Lao Gong, 勞宮).
           • The backward movement of the foot helps anchor and redirect the energy, while the hand projects the energy forward.

        3. Examples of Opposing Movements:

           • Repulse Monkey (倒攆猴): In this movement, one hand pushes backward while the foot on the same side steps back. Even though the hand and foot move in opposite directions, the coordination between them ensures that the body remains balanced and connected.
           • Parting Wild Horse’s Mane (野馬分鬃): While one hand moves forward, the opposite hand may pull back slightly, and there are instances where the feet move in opposition to balance the body.
           • Single Whip (單鞭): In some variations of this movement, while one hand moves forward in the whip-like gesture, the foot may move back or remain stationary to support the body's structure.

        4. Still in Line with 手與足合 Principles:

           • This type of opposing movement is still within the principle of hand and foot coordination because the timing, connection, and intent remain unified. The hand and foot work together to maintain structure, balance, and the flow of energy, even when moving in opposite directions.

        How to Practice Opposing Hand and Foot Movements

        1. Focus on Timing:

           • When practicing movements where the hand and foot move in opposite directions, the key is to focus on timing. Make sure that as the hand moves forward, the foot moves backward at the same pace.
           • The movements should complete simultaneously to maintain balance and connection.

        2. Keep the Waist Engaged:

           • The waist (dantian) should still lead the movement. Whether the hand and foot are moving together or in opposition, the waist ensures that the movements are unified and connected.
           • When the hand moves forward and the foot moves back, rotate or shift the waist to harmonize the motion.

        3. Maintain Structure and Stability:

           • Even though the hand and foot are moving in opposite directions, the body structure should remain stable and aligned. Avoid leaning or losing your center.
           • Focus on using the opposing movements to create a bow-like structure that maintains tension and balance throughout the body.

        4. Rooting with the Feet:

           • The backward-moving foot should remain rooted and connected to the ground, supporting the body's overall stability.
           • Even when the foot moves back, the energy (jing) should still be rooted in the ground and transmitted through the legs to support the hand movement.

        Conclusion:

        When the hand moves forward and the corresponding foot moves backward, it is still considered 手與足合 as long as the movements are coordinated and connected. This kind of opposing movement helps maintain balance and stability, while still allowing the energy (jing) to flow harmoniously through the body. In Tai Chi, this coordination reflects the dynamic balance between Yin and Yang, where even opposing forces work together to achieve unity.

   Conclusion:

   手與足合 (hand and foot coordination) is an essential principle in Tai Chi that ensures the body moves as a unified system. To practice this, focus on synchronizing the movements of your hands and feet, using your waist to guide the action. Root your movements in your legs and feet, and make sure your energy flows smoothly from the ground up to your hands. Through slow and mindful practice, this coordination becomes more natural and enhances your balance, power, and overall Tai Chi performance.

7. How They Work Together:

• Integrated Movement: When practicing Tai Chi, each of these pairs (shoulders-kua, elbows-knees, hands-feet) should move in coordination to create a unified body motion. This integration helps avoid tension and promotes relaxation, leading to smoother, more flowing movements.

• Energy Flow: Proper coordination among these pairs facilitates the flow of Qi throughout the body. When one part of the body moves, it influences the others, ensuring that energy can flow smoothly from the feet through the legs, torso, and finally to the hands.

• Balance and Stability: Maintaining harmony between these pairs enhances overall balance and stability in movements. If one part of the body is out of sync, it can lead to instability or inefficient movement patterns.

• Power Generation: The coordination of these harmonies allows practitioners to generate and direct power effectively. For instance, when the kua and shoulders work together, the energy generated from the legs can transfer through the body to the hands, resulting in more effective strikes or defensive maneuvers.

Practical Training Tips:

1. Focus on Alignment: During practice, pay attention to the alignment of your shoulders with your kua, elbows with your knees, and hands with your feet. Visualize how these pairs interact and support one another during movement.

2. Slow Movements: Perform movements slowly to develop awareness of how each part of your body influences the others. This mindfulness will help you discover areas of tension or misalignment.

3. Integrate Breathing: Coordinate your breath with your movements. Inhale and exhale to facilitate the flow of Qi and enhance the connection between your body parts.

4. Use Imagery: Imagine a continuous flow of energy traveling through these harmonized pairs. Visualizing this connection can help reinforce the sense of unity in your movements.

Conclusion:

外三合 (Wài Sān Hé) emphasizes the importance of the connections between the shoulders and kua, elbows and knees, and hands and feet in Tai Chi practice. By fostering these harmonies, practitioners can improve their overall technique, enhance energy flow, and achieve a more integrated and fluid practice. Understanding and applying these concepts will lead to more effective and powerful movements in Tai Chi. 

後退Retreat

後退Retreat

11 Steps for Retreating or Sitting Back Correctly in Tai Chi:

1. Open the Kua (Hip Joints)
   Before shifting your weight back, open and relax the kua to maintain smooth movement and proper alignment.

2. Maintain Upright Posture
   Keep your spine straight, as if suspended from above, to maintain balance without leaning backward.

3. Shift Your Weight Gradually
   Shift your weight slowly to the back leg to avoid misalignment, sinking into the back leg smoothly.

4. Bend the Back Knee Correctly
   Keep the back knee aligned with the toes as you bend, avoiding any inward or outward collapse.

5. Keep the Front Foot Light
   As you shift back, the front foot becomes lighter but stays grounded without lifting too early.

6. Sink into the Ground (Rooting)
   Root yourself by sinking into the back leg and foot, distributing the weight evenly across the foot.

7. Relax the Upper Body
   Keep the shoulders relaxed and sink your elbows slightly to release tension in the upper body.

8. Engage Your Dantian (Core)
   Focus on your Dantian to maintain internal balance and control your movement from the core.

9. Coordinate Breathing
   Inhale as you shift back and sit, allowing your breath to guide and relax the movement.

10. Avoid Overextension
    Do not overextend your back leg or lean too far backward. Maintain your center of gravity between both legs.

11. Use the Tailbone to Initiate the Movement
    Slightly tuck or align the tailbone, allowing it to drop and lead the leg in retreat. This maintains core connection and helps with a smooth, balanced movement.

With the tailbone's role integrated, your movements should feel more connected and stable, providing better control during Tai Chi practice.

Opening your kua (hip joints) before retreating can help prevent straining your knee (扭到膝蓋). When you sit back or retreat, if your back knee aligns improperly or twists, it can put unnecessary pressure on the joint. By opening your kua first, you create space in the hips, allowing for smoother, more controlled movement and better alignment between your knee and foot. This also helps distribute the force more evenly and reduces the risk of injury to the knee. It’s a key principle in Tai Chi to ensure that the kua is open and relaxed for proper weight shifting and alignment.

The transmission of Jing (勁) from Yongquan (K1) to Baihui (GV20) and from Laogong (P8) to Baihui

The transmission of Jing (勁) from Yongquan (K1) to Baihui (GV20) and from Laogong (P8) to Baihui 

The transmission of Jing (勁) from Yongquan (K1) to Baihui (GV20) and from Laogong (P8) to Baihui involves advanced Tai Chi concepts and internal energy work. The theories behind these transmissions focus on creating a seamless flow of energy through the body's key points and maintaining alignment to enhance balance, force, and internal strength. Here are the theories and practices for both types of transmission:

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1. Transmission of Jing from Yongquan (K1) to Baihui (GV20)

Theoretical Background:

• Yongquan (K1) is located at the soles of the feet and serves as the primary point for grounding and drawing energy from the earth.
• Baihui (GV20) is located at the crown of the head and represents the highest point of the body’s energy system, symbolizing the connection to the heavens (or universal energy).
• The flow of Jing (force) from Yongquan to Baihui embodies the connection between earth and heaven, with the energy rising from the ground, through the body, and extending upwards through the spine, ultimately reaching Baihui.
• The key is to create a unified vertical alignment, where the body becomes a conduit for energy to rise smoothly from the feet to the head, enabling a balanced and strong structure.

Practice:

a. Grounding and Alignment

• Begin by standing in a neutral stance, feet firmly grounded through the Yongquan points.
• Focus on sinking your weight into the feet while maintaining a slight bend in the knees. This allows you to connect to the ground and establish a solid foundation.
• As you ground, align the body vertically, stacking the head, shoulders, spine, hips, and feet in a straight line. Imagine a string pulling up from the Baihui point at the crown of your head, elongating your spine.

b. Raising the Qi (Energy)

• Once you are properly aligned, focus on raising the energy (Qi) from the Yongquan points. Visualize the energy rising upward from the soles of your feet, moving through your legs, hips, spine, and into your head, eventually reaching Baihui.
• As you practice slow movements (such as in Tai Chi forms or standing meditation), consciously guide the Jing upward from the Yongquan points to Baihui. The energy should rise smoothly along the spine in a continuous flow.

c. Integrated Structure

• Keep the dantian engaged as the center of your body’s energy. The dantian serves as a reservoir that collects the energy rising from Yongquan and distributes it upward to the Baihui.
• Focus on the internal feeling of openness in the spine, as if the energy is creating space and lengthening the vertebrae as it rises.

d. Breathing and Visualization

• Synchronize your breathing with the energy flow. Inhale as the energy rises from Yongquan to Baihui, and exhale while maintaining the connection between these two points.
• Visualize the energy reaching the Baihui point and expanding outward into the sky, representing the unity of heaven and earth within your body.

Key Principle:

• The transmission of Jing from Yongquan to Baihui should feel like a natural, upward extension of force, creating a vertical connection between the ground (Yin) and the heavens (Yang). Your body becomes a strong but flexible conduit for this energy.

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2. Transmission of Jing from Laogong (P8) to Baihui (GV20)

Theoretical Background:

• Laogong (P8), located in the center of the palms, is a key point for the release of energy. In Tai Chi, this is where internal force (Jing) is often expressed outward in movements or interactions with opponents.
• Baihui (GV20), as the crown point, represents the connection to the uppermost energy center, symbolizing mental clarity, awareness, and connection to the universe.
• The transmission of Jing from Laogong to Baihui emphasizes the integration of upper body energy, focusing on connecting the hands and head as a unified system. This reflects the harmonious interaction between intent (Yi), energy (Qi), and physical force (Jing).

Practice:

a. Connecting the Arms to the Spine

• Start in a neutral stance, with your arms relaxed and your palms slightly open. Focus on the Laogong points in your hands and maintain a slight curve in your fingers to activate the palms without creating tension.
• Visualize a line of energy running from the Laogong points in your palms up through your arms and into your shoulders, connecting with your spine and ultimately rising to Baihui.
• Ensure that your posture is upright and your spine is aligned. The transmission of energy from Laogong to Baihui depends on the smooth flow through the arms, shoulders, and spine.

b. Opening and Expanding the Energy

• With each movement of your arms (whether in Tai Chi forms or push-hands practice), imagine the energy extending from your palms (Laogong) upward toward Baihui. The arms act as a conduit for the internal energy to move up and unify with the head.
• As you move your hands, the focus should be on expanding the energy from Laogong through the body and connecting it to Baihui.
• This expansion represents the internal connection of your intent (Yi), guiding the flow of Jing through the hands and linking it to your mental focus.

c. Circular Energy Flow

• Incorporate circular movements with your arms and hands while maintaining focus on the Laogong points. As your arms move, ensure the energy travels smoothly from the palms to Baihui, creating a sense of internal circular flow.
• You can practice this in movements like "cloud hands" or "ward-off," where the arms and hands are constantly engaged in flowing, circular patterns. The Jing should feel like it’s spiraling upward from the palms to the head.

d. Breathing and Mental Focus

• Coordinate your breathing with the movement of energy. Inhale as you draw energy from the Laogong points, allowing it to rise through your arms and spine to Baihui. Exhale while keeping the energy connected and balanced between your hands and head.
• Mentally focus on uniting your intention (Yi) with the physical movement. The goal is to integrate your mental focus with your body, so the Jing transmission from Laogong to Baihui is natural and fluid.

Key Principle:

• The transmission of Jing from Laogong to Baihui represents the unification of external force (expressed through the hands) with internal awareness (centered at the crown of the head). This reflects the Tai Chi principle of combining physical movement with mental focus and internal energy.

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Summary of Theories and Practice:

• Yongquan to Baihui: Focus on grounding and creating a vertical flow of energy through the body, connecting the earth to the heavens. This practice emphasizes alignment, stability, and a strong but relaxed connection between the feet and head.

• Laogong to Baihui: Focus on the upper body connection, uniting the hands and head through internal energy flow. This practice emphasizes the transmission of force from the hands while maintaining mental clarity and awareness at the crown.

Both transmissions involve maintaining internal balance, proper body alignment, and relaxed, mindful movement to facilitate smooth energy flow through the body’s key energy points.

Transmit Energy to Both Yongquan (K1) and Baihui (GV20)

It is possible to transmit energy to both Yongquan (K1) and Baihui (GV20) at the same time, and this concept is deeply rooted in Tai Chi and internal martial arts theory. The practice involves maintaining an internal balance where energy (Qi) is transmitted both upward and downward simultaneously, creating a state of dynamic equilibrium between the earth (Yongquan) and the heavens (Baihui).

Theoretical Explanation:

1. Yin and Yang Balance: In Tai Chi, the concept of Yin and Yang represents complementary forces—Yin being grounded, stable, and receptive (related to Yongquan and the lower body), and Yang being light, expansive, and rising (related to Baihui and the upper body). Transmitting energy to both points at the same time is an expression of harmonizing Yin and Yang within the body.

2. Central Equilibrium (Zhong Ding): This practice is closely related to central equilibrium or Zhong Ding. When the energy is transmitted to both Yongquan and Baihui, the body maintains a central axis, keeping the balance between heaven and earth. This balance allows the practitioner to feel stable, connected to the ground while also light and upright, with an expanded awareness.

3. Simultaneous Expansion and Grounding: The ability to simultaneously transmit energy to both Yongquan and Baihui reflects the Tai Chi principle of expansion and contraction happening at the same time. Energy expands upward through Baihui, while at the same time it grounds downward through Yongquan. This dual direction creates a feeling of fullness, rootedness, and integration.

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Practical Steps to Achieve Simultaneous Energy Transmission:

1. Body Alignment:

• Stand in a relaxed, natural posture, with your feet firmly connected to the ground through Yongquan and your spine aligned vertically.
• Imagine a string pulling upward from Baihui, keeping your head upright and your spine elongated.
• Your weight should feel evenly distributed through your feet, with a slight bend in the knees to maintain a grounded connection.

2. Sink and Lift at the Same Time:

• Sink into Yongquan: As you stand, focus on “sinking” your energy downward into the Yongquan points. Allow your body to feel heavy and rooted, as if your legs are channels through which energy flows into the ground.
• Lift from Baihui: Simultaneously, visualize energy rising upward from your feet, through your spine, and extending out of the top of your head at Baihui. The upward force should feel light, lifting your posture while creating a sense of openness and expansion.
• The key is to feel both the upward lifting and the downward grounding at the same time, which creates an internal balance.

3. Breathing and Visualization:

• Inhale: As you breathe in, imagine the energy rising from the Yongquan points, up through the body, and out through Baihui. Feel the internal lift in your posture and the lightness in your head.
• Exhale: As you breathe out, focus on sinking your energy back down to Yongquan while maintaining the upward extension through Baihui. This creates a sense of rootedness in your lower body while keeping the upper body light and open.
• Repeat this breathing pattern, maintaining the feeling of energy traveling in both directions.

4. Movement Integration:

• When you begin to move (for example, in Tai Chi forms or standing meditation), ensure that every movement maintains this dual flow of energy. As your arms and body move, focus on keeping Yongquan grounded and connected to the earth, while also feeling the upward connection to Baihui.
• Every step or rotation should feel connected to the ground through Yongquan, while the upper body remains aligned and open through Baihui.

5. Tai Chi Forms Practice:

• In Tai Chi forms, such as “cloud hands” or “ward-off,” maintain a balance of energy flow. As you shift your weight from one leg to another, keep the Yongquan points activated and connected to the ground, while your upper body stays upright and lifted through Baihui.
• Practice slowly and mindfully, constantly checking that you are neither too heavy in the lower body nor too light in the upper body. The energy should flow smoothly and continuously in both directions.

6. Push Hands (Partner Training):

• In push-hands practice, this dual transmission of energy helps maintain your central equilibrium and prevents you from being easily uprooted. As you engage with your partner, ground through your Yongquan points while maintaining the upward lift through Baihui.
• This balance allows you to absorb and neutralize incoming forces without losing your root or becoming disconnected from the center.

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Key Points to Keep in Mind:

1. Grounding and Uplifting Are Complementary: When you transmit energy to both Yongquan and Baihui, the two movements of energy—upward and downward—work together. Grounding through Yongquan strengthens your stability and root, while the upward flow to Baihui enhances your posture and mental clarity.

2. Central Axis (Zhong Ding): The energy flow between Yongquan and Baihui keeps you centered along your body's central axis. This alignment is critical in Tai Chi practice for maintaining balance, fluidity, and internal connection.

3. Relaxation and Focus: Relaxation is essential to allow the energy to flow smoothly in both directions. Any tension in the body, especially in the hips or spine, will block the energy transmission. Stay relaxed, focused, and aware of the simultaneous grounding and lifting.

4. Internal and External Harmony: The simultaneous transmission of energy to both Yongquan and Baihui represents the harmony between internal and external forces in Tai Chi. You become rooted in the earth while staying connected to the heavens, embodying a balance of Yin and Yang within your movements.

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Summary:

Transmitting energy to both Yongquan and Baihui at the same time is possible and reflects the Tai Chi principle of balancing Yin and Yang. By grounding through Yongquan and uplifting through Baihui, you create a dynamic equilibrium that enhances stability, posture, and internal energy flow. This practice is essential for maintaining central equilibrium (Zhong Ding) and internal strength in Tai Chi, and it can be integrated into both stationary postures and moving forms.

合勁 (He Jing) Combining Force

The idea of combining Jing from Baihui (GV20) and Yongquan (K1) and sending it out through Laogong (PC8) can be understood as 合勁 (He Jing), which means "combining force" or "harmonized energy." In this case, you are integrating the energy from both the top (Baihui) and the bottom (Yongquan) to create a unified flow of force that can be directed outward through the hands (Laogong). This concept aligns with advanced Tai Chi principles, where the body works as an integrated whole, and Jing flows harmoniously through various channels and points.

Theoretical Explanation of He Jing:

合勁 (He Jing) refers to the harmonization of different sources of energy in the body, integrating them into a single, unified force that can be expressed externally. This includes combining the upward flow of Jing from Yongquan with the downward connection from Baihui, both meeting at Laogong (the hands) for expression. When properly cultivated, this combined force is powerful and smooth, without any breaks in the energy flow.

Does It Contradict Other Theories of Jing Transmission?

No, it doesn’t contradict the common idea of Jing transmission, where energy travels from Yongquan (the feet) to Laogong (the hands) via the legs, waist, spine, and shoulders. These are different frameworks or layers for understanding how energy moves through the body in Tai Chi, and they can coexist without contradiction.

Here’s how both concepts fit together:

1. Jing from the Feet to the Hands (Ground-Up Approach):

• The traditional method of energy transmission in Tai Chi is described as the flow of Jing from the feet (Yongquan) up through the legs, into the waist, through the spine, and finally out to the hands (Laogong).
• This method emphasizes grounding through Yongquan, stabilizing the body, and transmitting energy upward through the central axis of the body, where it can then be directed into an outward strike or movement via the hands.
• This ground-up transmission is a fundamental aspect of generating power in Tai Chi, especially for movements where rooting is critical.

2. Combining Baihui and Yongquan (He Jing):

• The idea of He Jing (合勁) goes beyond just the upward flow from the ground. It integrates both Baihui and Yongquan to create a harmonized connection between heaven and earth, aligning the entire body.
• In this method, Baihui represents the connection to the "heavens" (Yang energy), and Yongquan represents the connection to the "earth" (Yin energy). These two forces are combined, creating a unified energy flow that encompasses the entire body.
• The combination of heaven and earth energy flows harmonizes the practitioner’s structure and intent. This can then be transmitted to Laogong, where the energy is expressed through the hands.

So, He Jing does not contradict the traditional path of Jing flowing from the feet upward to the hands; instead, it adds an additional layer of energy integration, making the practice more holistic. It’s not just the lower body driving the energy; the entire body, including the connection to the head (Baihui), contributes to the power.

Unified Perspective:

• Combining Forces (He Jing): This process is like uniting two streams (from Baihui and Yongquan) into one powerful river, which is then directed to Laogong. The body becomes fully integrated, with no separation between upper and lower body. This unified force is often described as a wave of energy moving through the body as one harmonious whole.

• Traditional Transmission (Ground-Up Approach): This emphasizes the upward force, grounding the lower body through Yongquan and transmitting energy in a sequential, structured manner through the body’s natural kinetic chain (feet → legs → waist → spine → hands).

Both frameworks are valid and serve different purposes. He Jing reflects a higher level of mastery, where you’re no longer just thinking about the step-by-step process of Jing transmission but instead harmonizing and balancing all the energy systems of the body at once.

Practical Training:

1. Basic Ground-Up Transmission:
   • Focus on transmitting energy from the feet to the hands in Tai Chi forms. Make sure each part of your body (legs, waist, spine, shoulders) is coordinated to allow the energy to flow smoothly upward.
2. He Jing Practice:
   • In more advanced practice, work on integrating both the upward flow from Yongquan and the downward connection from Baihui, feeling these forces meet in the center of your body.
   • Gradually combine them into one harmonized force that flows outward through Laogong, practicing movements like Push Hands or Tai Chi strikes to feel the unified flow of energy.

Conclusion:

The transmission of energy from Yongquan to Laogong (ground-up approach) is foundational and emphasizes the sequential activation of the body's kinetic chain. He Jing, on the other hand, involves harmonizing and combining the energy from both Baihui and Yongquan into a single, unified force. These concepts can coexist, as He Jing represents a more advanced and integrated form of energy transmission in Tai Chi, complementing the traditional pathway without contradiction.

Tai Chi Diagram with Two Dots and One Dot(太極圖）

Tai Chi Diagram with Two Dots and One Dot

(太極圖）

In Tai Chi (Taiji) philosophy, the diagram known as the "Taiji Tu" (太极图) represents the dynamic interplay of Yin and Yang, the two complementary forces in the universe. These diagrams often feature circles or dots to symbolize the essence of Yin and Yang.

1. Diagram with Two Dots (One for Yin, One for Yang)

In some Taiji diagrams, Yin and Yang are represented by two distinct dots or small circles, one in the black (Yin) half and one in the white (Yang) half. This configuration emphasizes the idea that:

• Yin contains a seed of Yang: Even in the darkest part of Yin (black), there is always a little bit of Yang (the white dot).
• Yang contains a seed of Yin: Similarly, in the lightest part of Yang (white), there is always a little bit of Yin (the black dot).

This symbol highlights the interdependence and balance between the two forces. Each contains a potential for transformation into its opposite, symbolizing the constant flux and balance of energies in nature and within ourselves.

2. Diagram with One Combined Dot/Circle

When the Taiji diagram shows only one dot or circle representing both Yin and Yang together, it signifies the unification or harmonization of Yin and Yang into a single essence. The message is that:

• Yin and Yang are not only interconnected but also inseparable, forming a harmonious whole.
• This version focuses more on the oneness of duality, where the interaction between Yin and Yang merges into a unified field, a complete balance.

This single circle emphasizes the idea of ultimate unity and suggests that all dualities are part of a larger, singular process. It can be interpreted as a more abstract or philosophical representation of balance and wholeness.

Interpretation in Practice

In Tai Chi martial practice, the concept of two dots emphasizes the constant interplay of opposing forces, while the one-dot version may symbolize the practitioner’s focus on achieving oneness with the flow of energy (Qi) through the balance of Yin and Yang.

Both versions convey different layers of the same philosophy, with one focusing on the dynamic nature of interaction (two dots) and the other on the unity and harmony (one dot) achieved when the dual forces are in perfect balance.

This single dot can be interpreted in a few different ways:

1. Unity and Harmony: The single dot can symbolize the ultimate unity and harmony of yin and yang, suggesting that despite their apparent opposites, they are ultimately interconnected and inseparable.
2. Potential and Potentiality: The dot can represent the potential or potentiality of both yin and yang, indicating that within any state of being, there is the possibility of transformation or change into its opposite.
3. Origin of Creation: In some interpretations, the single dot is seen as the origin of creation, suggesting that from a state of pure potential or nothingness, the universe and all its dualities emerged.

Ultimately, the interpretation of the Taijitu with a single dot depends on the specific context and the intended meaning that the artist or practitioner wishes to convey. Both interpretations, with two dots or one, are valid and can offer valuable insights into the philosophy of yin and yang.

Interpretation of Fullness and Emptiness:

In Tai Chi philosophy and practice, fullness (實) and emptiness (虛) refer to the distribution of energy, weight, or force. However, when Yin and Yang are merged into one dot or circle, the interpretation tends to focus on a state of equilibrium rather than extremes of fullness or emptiness.

1. Balance and Integration: The single dot symbolizes a state where Yin and Yang are so perfectly balanced and unified that they are no longer separate or opposing forces. It implies that fullness and emptiness are not distinct but are constantly shifting and transforming into each other.

2. Dynamic Continuity: Even when unified into one, the forces of Yin and Yang still maintain their dynamic nature. The center is not about being "completely full" or "completely empty" but represents a dynamic center where fullness and emptiness coexist and transform seamlessly. The circle represents the potential for constant movement between states, but without conflict.

In Tai Chi Practice:

When you apply this concept to Tai Chi movements:

• The idea of one circle or dot can be seen as a focus on finding the perfect center of balance, where Yin and Yang flow together smoothly.
• Practically, it suggests a state where there is no rigid division between fullness and emptiness in your body movements. Your movement flows seamlessly, and your energy (Qi) is balanced and unified.

So, rather than extremes (completely full or empty), the combined dot represents harmony and integration—a state where fullness and emptiness are fluid, continually transforming into one another without tension or separation.

The process of turning in Tai Chi, where you shift from the back leg to the front leg while continuing the turn, can indeed resemble the interaction of the two dots or circles in the Tai Chi diagram. This movement embodies the principles of Yin and Yang: the shifting of weight and energy between the legs parallels the continuous exchange between Yin and Yang as seen in the diagram.

Here’s how it relates:

1. Shifting from Back Leg (Yin) to Front Leg (Yang):

• When you turn on the back leg, it often carries the weight and can be considered the Yin (empty) side, providing stability and grounding.
• As you shift your weight to the front leg, that leg becomes Yang (full), taking the active role and continuing the movement forward.

This transition mirrors the balance between Yin and Yang, where fullness (Yang) gives rise to emptiness (Yin) and vice versa.

2. Continuous Transformation:

• Just like the two dots in the Tai Chi diagram, as one leg becomes full (Yang), it contains a seed of Yin (the potential to empty), and the empty leg (Yin) contains the potential to fill (Yang). The movement reflects the cyclical nature of Yin transforming into Yang, and vice versa.
• The turning movement never fully stops at one extreme but keeps flowing, just like the energy in the Tai Chi symbol constantly shifts and moves between the black and white halves.

3. Circling Motion:

• If you observe the full-body movement while turning and shifting between legs, it creates a circular path, much like the curved division in the Taiji symbol, where the interaction between the Yin and Yang forces generates a smooth, continuous rotation.

Visualization of the Taiji Diagram:

• When you're turning, the moment when weight shifts from one leg to the other can be thought of as passing through the "dot" or transition point, where the Yin leg is about to become Yang, and the Yang leg is about to empty out and become Yin.
• In a full turning sequence, you experience both fullness and emptiness, creating a flow of energy much like the Taiji diagram’s swirling, dynamic balance of forces.

Yin and Yang Merged into One Dot

In summary, the turning movement in Tai Chi reflects the principles behind the two dots of the Taiji diagram—a continuous, harmonious transition between Yin and Yang, fullness and emptiness, where each leg takes turns being full (Yang) and empty (Yin), just like the balance in the diagram.

The two dots or circles in the Tai Chi diagram, representing the interplay of Yin and Yang, merge into one dot or circle when they reach a state of perfect balance or unity. This happens when Yin and Yang are harmonized to such an extent that they are no longer seen as separate or opposing forces, but as a unified whole. In Tai Chi practice, this merging can symbolize a deeper level of integration and flow of energy (Qi), where the distinction between full and empty, Yin and Yang, is no longer clearly felt, and the practitioner reaches a state of oneness.

Here are key moments when this merging can be understood:

1. Achieving Balance and Central Equilibrium (Zhong Ding)

In Tai Chi, the concept of Zhong Ding (central equilibrium) is vital. It refers to maintaining a centered and balanced posture, both physically and energetically. When a practitioner reaches a state of perfect balance, where fullness (Yang) and emptiness (Yin) are so well integrated that there is no excess or deficiency, the two forces become indistinguishable. This could be symbolized by the one dot or circle in the diagram:

• Your movements become unified, without a clear division between the active and passive parts.
• The flow of energy (Qi) becomes smooth and continuous, and you move with natural ease, free from separation between Yin and Yang.

2. When Fullness and Emptiness Become Indistinguishable

As you progress in Tai Chi practice, the transition between full (實) and empty (虛) becomes so seamless that there is no distinct point where one ends, and the other begins. This happens when:

• You are no longer consciously focusing on whether a particular part of your body is full or empty. The energy moves in a harmonized and unified manner.
• The feeling of two separate forces dissolves into a sensation of oneness or wholeness, where the body and mind are fully integrated.

At this level, the one dot in the Tai Chi diagram represents the practitioner’s ability to maintain this state of unity between full and empty in their movements.

3. Internal Cultivation and Qi Integration

In advanced Tai Chi practice, when a practitioner is able to integrate Qi smoothly throughout the body, the separation between Yin and Yang also becomes more abstract. The merging of two dots into one symbolizes this internal harmony:

• The practitioner's Qi flows evenly throughout the body, and there is no part that is overpowered by either Yin or Yang.
• This leads to a feeling of wholeness, where the energy is in complete balance, and the body moves as a single, unified structure.

4. Spiritual or Philosophical Oneness

On a deeper, more philosophical level, the merging of the two dots into one can represent the transcendence of duality—a state of mind where Yin and Yang are not seen as opposing forces but as aspects of a greater, indivisible unity. This is a concept of oneness found in Taoist philosophy, where:

• The distinction between opposites (Yin/Yang, full/empty) disappears, and all is experienced as part of the same cosmic flow.
• The practitioner experiences a deep sense of harmony with nature and the universe, symbolized by the single dot or circle.

5. In Specific Movements:

In Tai Chi movements, this merging can occur when:

• The transitions between movements are so smooth and continuous that the difference between Yin (receptive) and Yang (active) becomes imperceptible.
• Both feet, or both arms, can share the load evenly, and energy circulates freely without breaks or clear distinctions between which part of the body is full or empty. In this case, the whole body feels like a single, unified force.

Summary:

The merging of the two dots into one in some Tai Chi diagrams represents the ultimate unity and harmony of Yin and Yang. This occurs when there is no longer a distinct separation between fullness and emptiness, and the energy (Qi) flows seamlessly. It is both a physical and philosophical state where dualities blend into one harmonious whole, reflecting the core principles of Tai Chi and Taoism.

In the context of turning from the back leg to the front leg in Tai Chi, the two dots of Yin and Yang combine into one when your movement reaches a state of perfect balance and unity during the weight transfer. This happens when there is no clear distinction between fullness and emptiness, and the transition between the back and front leg becomes so smooth and integrated that it feels like one continuous action.

Here’s how this can be interpreted:

1. Seamless Transition (Perfect Timing)

As you turn from the back leg (which is Yin, empty) to the front leg (Yang, full), the two dots—representing Yin and Yang—are initially distinct. However, when the shift is seamless, meaning the weight transfer occurs with perfect timing, the two forces blend into one unified action. At this point:

• You no longer feel the back leg as fully empty or the front leg as fully full—both legs share the burden smoothly, without a clear moment when one completely empties or the other completely fills.
• The transfer becomes continuous and harmonious, with the body moving as one integrated unit.

This state of harmony, where the movement is perfectly balanced, represents the merging of the two dots into one, symbolizing the unity of Yin and Yang in your turning.

2. Energy Flow Integration

When you shift your weight from the back leg to the front leg, the Qi (energy) flows from one part of the body to another. If this flow is gradual and uninterrupted, the distinction between the Yin of the back leg and the Yang of the front leg begins to disappear, and the entire body becomes one unified vessel of energy. At this point:

• The flow of energy is evenly distributed between the legs, and there is no longer a focus on one leg being full (Yang) and the other empty (Yin).
• Instead, the energy circulates in a harmonious loop, and the movement feels like one continuous cycle—this is when the two dots can be seen as having merged into one.

3. Mind and Body Unification

In Tai Chi, the merging of the two dots also has a mental component. As you become more experienced and aware of your movements, the mental focus shifts from the technical distinction of full and empty to a feeling of oneness. When you no longer need to consciously think about which leg is full or empty and simply move with complete awareness and flow:

• The separation between the two forces fades, and you feel the movement as a unified whole. This reflects the merging of the two dots into one, symbolizing that Yin and Yang are no longer two separate concepts but one integrated force.

4. Physical Stability and Fluidity

When your turning motion achieves a high level of physical stability and fluidity, where you’re fully grounded and balanced through both legs at all times, the sensation of fullness (Yang) and emptiness (Yin) becomes balanced across your entire body. The moment when:

• Both legs share the load equally, and your center of gravity flows without any jerky or segmented transitions, the movement feels like a single, flowing action.
• This is the point where the two dots symbolizing Yin and Yang combine into one, as the division between full and empty is no longer distinct, and everything moves in unity.

5. Advanced Tai Chi State: The Feeling of Wholeness

In advanced Tai Chi practice, this merging of the two dots into one corresponds to a state where you feel a deep sense of wholeness in your movement. There is no longer a conscious effort to shift between full and empty, but rather, a sense of constant transformation and balance. This occurs when:

• Your turning becomes a single, unified motion, and the distinction between the front and back legs is experienced not as two separate phases but as a continuous, integrated process.

Summary:

The two dots of Yin and Yang combine into one during the weight transfer from the back leg to the front leg when the transition is so smooth and balanced that the difference between fullness (Yang) and emptiness (Yin) becomes imperceptible. This happens when the movement flows naturally, with no separation between the roles of the two legs, and the energy circulates as one. In this state, both mind and body are fully integrated, representing the ultimate unity of Yin and Yang in Tai Chi.

When the distinction between Yin and Yang becomes nearly undistinguishable during the weight shift between the two legs, it often means that the center of the body is in a balanced state, positioned in the middle of the two legs. This reflects a state of central equilibrium (Zhong Ding) in Tai Chi, where the practitioner maintains a harmonious balance between fullness (Yang) and emptiness (Yin), and the body is well-aligned.

Here’s how this works in more detail:

1. Central Equilibrium (Zhong Ding)

• In Tai Chi, Zhong Ding refers to keeping the body’s center (often associated with the dantian) aligned over a balanced base of support. When the distinction between Yin and Yang fades, the body's center naturally gravitates toward the middle, evenly distributing weight and energy between the two legs.
• This means your center of gravity is stable, floating between the two legs, and you are neither too focused on the back leg (Yin) nor the front leg (Yang), but rather on a point of harmony between them.

2. Fluid Weight Distribution

• When the transition between the legs is so smooth that the distinction between full and empty fades, the weight is more evenly distributed between the two legs. The body’s center aligns itself in the middle, and the Qi flows without obstruction or imbalance.
• This even weight distribution and centeredness help create the sensation of oneness, where the entire body is working in harmony, and the separation between Yin and Yang becomes less apparent.

3. Balance and Stability

• By keeping the center of the body between the two legs, you maintain a balanced and stable stance, which allows for smoother, more controlled movement. The loss of clear distinction between Yin and Yang means that neither leg is too heavily relied on for support or action, and the body moves as a unified whole.
• This balance of Yin and Yang is key to maintaining physical and energetic stability, preventing overcommitment to one side and allowing for quick adjustments in direction and movement.

4. Qi Integration and Circular Flow

• When the body’s center is in the middle, the Qi (energy) flows smoothly and evenly between the legs and throughout the body. The fading distinction between Yin and Yang means the energy is not stuck or concentrated in one part of the body but is circulating freely.
• This is akin to the one dot or circle in the Tai Chi diagram, where the forces of Yin and Yang merge into one unified, balanced center, representing the integration of opposites.

5. Dynamic Stability in Movement

• Even though the body’s center may be positioned in the middle during the movement, this does not mean it is static. In Tai Chi, the center of the body moves dynamically, but always maintains balance between Yin and Yang.
• As the weight shifts smoothly from back to front leg, the center remains balanced between the legs, embodying the principle of continuous, circular motion where the separation of Yin and Yang is minimal.

Summary:

When the distinction between Yin and Yang becomes nearly undistinguished in Tai Chi, it indicates that the center of the body is in a state of balance, positioned between the two legs. This reflects a state of central equilibrium where weight and energy are evenly distributed, the body is aligned, and the Qi flows smoothly. The merging of Yin and Yang into one unified whole is reflected in the body’s balanced center, allowing for harmonious, fluid movement without a clear separation between full and empty.

Note： A diagram illustrating the concept of taiji, called a taijitu. The above design, depicting interlocking swirls of yin and yang around a central void, is the symbol's original form as introduced by Ming-era philosopher Lai Zhide.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taiji_(philosophy)