An excellent class last night. My left knee was playing up a bit and not supporting me as well as it might. I got through it though and I even mostly remembered the form. After a while we broke off and paired up. The object was to go over the form and see how many of the Chinese names we could remember. For me, to begin with,it was none. But the exercise turned out to be beneficial in several ways. For one thing, I now do remember the names. I also learned to associate the movements with the names. It was pointed out that there are the movements that lead to postures, the Yang element and there are transitional movements that aren't actually a part of the move, the Yin element. The visible and the invisible. Knowing what constitutes 'White Crane Separates Wings' and what is the lead up to it makes it easier to remember the sequence.
We ended with 2 person drills. Using Brush and Push to defend against punches. I find this really useful. It makes you realise that the way you do these things in the form is the most effective way. It is surprising how little force is needed with the proper technique. Eventually, you resist the urge to tense up and try to use muscle power. The advice is that when practicing with a partner, you imagine that they are not there. When practicing the form you imagine that they are there. This is a great way to move with 'intention' but without tension.
Unfortunately, there are n classes for the next two weeks. I really will have to discipline myself to practice at home. I also need to do a LOT of stretching before next time.
tai chi
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