Center and Balance

       Balance is an essential principle in Tai Chi, and is practiced using the combination of a calm mind, correct posture, the smooth and even flow of qi, stability, and the development of your center and centerline.  If your mind is not calm, it is difficult to correct your posture, which upsets your balance.  Then your qi won't be able to flow smoothly, which also affects your balance. Furthermore, you develop your root and stability by keeping your spine straight and your torso erect, which also maintains your balance.

       The points to practice for developing your center, centerline and balance in Tai Chi are summarized below:

1. Become aware of your body as if you were a sphere, with the Dan-Tien as your center of gravity and focus of awareness. The Dan-Tien is a point located about two inches below the navel, in the center of your lower torso. All movement is done in such a way that the Dan-Tien moves in a horizontal plane.

2. The line of the center of gravity always falls through one foot, or as close to it as possible, and always remains within the base of the two feet.

3. The centerline of your body, from the head through the torso, remains vertical.

4. All body movement is a transition from one foot to another, or a rotation of your centerline.

Following these points is exemplified in the classics of Tai Chi:

“Stand like a balance and move, acting like a cartwheel.”

                                                    from The Dao of Tajiquan by Jou, Tsung Hwa