Walk like a cat

In this installment we'll look at a selection from one of the Tai Chi classics. The term "classic" is equivalent to "seminal" (fundamental source) in English.

The upright body must be stable and comfortable to be able to sustain an attack from any of the eight directions.

Walk like a cat.

Remember, when moving, there is no place that does not move. When still, there is no place that is not still.

First seek extension, then contraction; then it can be fine and subtle.

- The Tai Chi Classic II, Wang Tsung-Yueh (18th Century)

The first line reminds us of the key principle of "erect and upright posture", and the importance of being settled and relaxed (without tension or stiffness). Only when you are "comfortable" and centered in your posture, will you be able to move freely. If you are leaning, you will be unstable in that direction and will have to pull yourself back just to begin moving in any other direction. You can easily loose your balance in the direction you are leaning and you will be burning a lot of extra energy to maintain your balance. I'm sure you can imagine how this might affect you in daily life. In Tai Chi we want to feel comfortable and relaxed as we practice, and this will extend to everything we do.

"Walk like a cat" is a remarkable visual image. Cats move in a relaxed, sure, even, careful way. They are attentive and alert to their surroundings and remarkably agile. Hold this picture in your imagination as you practice Tai Chi. Take it from the class to your daily life.

The next line reminds us to coordinate upper and lower parts of the body. If the hands are moving, they should be driven by legs and waist.

The last cryptic line is advice for players. Basically, it advises that students must begin learning Tai Chi using large movements, which, with continued practice, will become smaller, more refined and subtle as your skill improves. From another viewpoint, it means you should be content that, at first your Tai Chi will be pretty rough around the edges. You may feel awkward and clumsy. Don't worry! Keep practicing, remember to apply Yang's 10 principles and succes will come to you. This idea applies to almost everything we try to learn.

Relax, enjoy, be comfortable, and walk like a cat.