In acting, consider the appropriate timing.
(Lao Tzu)
4 ounces?
Few beginners can comfortably grasp the
idea that only
4 ounces of pressure is applied at any time in
our tai chi classes.
They imagine a hidden clause or that fa jing uses more strength somehow.
Yet, fa jing is born of looseness and softness.
Tai chi is all about yielding. Tension blocks movement.
It is the momentum, gravity and body weight that causes the damage.
We do not want to oppose force or apply more than 4 ounces of pressure.
In order to accomplish this task we need timing.
Timing is a sensitivity
skill that teaches us how and when to apply the force.
When
Knowing when to move is the art of timing.
Typically, we wait for the opponent to attack and then we evade or strike
pre-emptively.
Feeling when to apply the 4 ounces is more important than having great
strength.
If you cannot gauge the right moment to apply your tai chi,
it will be ineffectual.
Not too late or too early...
How
Applying the tai chi appropriately involves an
assessment of the situation.
This assessment must occur instinctively, without any conscious thought.
The way in which the tai chi is employed is the main concern and skill of
the system.
Appropriateness can only be understood through the rigorous training of form and
partner drills.
Ideally, you must neutralise the incoming attack whilst counter-striking.
This should not feel difficult or oppose the incoming force in any fashion.
The counter must also be effective.
Pushing hands
Partner drills such as pushing hands were designed to highlight tension in your
own body and that of the opponent.
These moments of stiffness are blockages.
We must remove the resistance if we want the ability to strike spontaneously.
The right moment will occur without warning - if we cannot feel it
because of our own internal tension, it will pass by unnoticed.
Spiritual
Shen centres you in the immediate moment and you achieve a tao/zen clarity.
This singular, unique state of consciousness will enable you to move without
thought and strike without consideration.
Spontaneous movement occurs naturally.
Timing ceases to be an impediment because there is no longer a barrier between
yourself and the opponent.
Page created 2 April 2002