If we are learning the choreography of a set of movements,
we have the choice of organizing the structure (shape) of the individual
movements around internal principles: relax, align with gravity, drain, etc.
We can also just learn the choreography on the chance that it (the
choreography) will allow us to discover the principles.
The latter is the course most beginners unconsciously choose simply because
the learning of the movements is demanding enough in itself.
Later, when one is accustomed to the movements, principles can be more
deeply explored and appreciated.
If the principles are not eventually given priority over the shapes taken -
that is, the practitioner thinks that assuming a certain form will allow the
discovery of the internal art - the practitioner will end up with a perfect
set of moves yet not have a feel for the depth out of which the moves were
discovered.
(Ron Sieh)
Tai chi must have neigong
Without neigong, tai chi remains
external.
Neigong allows the movements to soften and relax whilst maintaining an inner
substance known as 'inherent peng'.
When tai chi lacks neigong, students stiffen their muscles to compensate.
This blocks the flow of energy and breaks the
groundpath.
Unless the muscles stop contracting, force cannot be met softly.
Force meeting force is external, not tai chi.
When somebody has neigong, their body is extremely loose and springy.
It is flexible, yielding yet strong - like a rubber hosepipe.
There should be no tension at all and the whole body should move when
touched.
Inherent
A student is required to concentrate on incorporating one neigong at
a time during their tai chi practice.
In time, this neigong will become part of how the body moves.
Eventually, when the student thinks to incorporate the neigong, they will find
that they are already doing it.
The nature of learning neigong means that the internal skill remains.
Unless the neigong becomes inherent, it cannot provide a benefit beyond
the class.
By re-growing the body in this way, the student has neigong in every
situation.
Progress
When one neigong is inherent, the student begins to learn
the next one.
Eventually new neigong will occur by themselves; this is called 'tzu-jan'.
These neigong emerge as a consequence of other physical parameters being in
place.
They are unexpected.
Many of the advanced neigong must simply be allowed to happen; they
cannot be forced.
If an unusual neigong occurs one day but vanishes the next, be patient.
Internal massage
Neigong restricts movement in certain ways, allowing the build-up of
energy within the body.
This internal build-up is created by squeezing and twisting - rather than
tensing any muscles.
It is like a spring, compressed and then released.
The torso contains the internal organs and is the focus of this process.
The organs receive a vigorous massage as a consequence.
Massaging the internal organs is excellent for your health.
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Page created 16 January 1999