On the subject of training neuromuscular control via "stillness and movement" of the body; the logic of which should appeal to anyone regardless of their thinking. Teachings from Master Hwa and Grandmaster Young, calligraphy by GM Young as it his own excellent calligraphy, picture courtesy of Dr. Lin Yi Maislin, GM Young's daughter.
"Most untrained people make moves instinctively, not aware how different segments of their body perform different functions in a joint effort to achieve the mission. One of the objectives of Classical Tai Chi is to teach how to identify and then perfect this capability.
Square Form is the first step to teach beginners to be familiar with the concept and practice of segmentation.
When one part of body moves (yang), the rest of the body is completely still (yin). As discussed before, to achieve internal movements, the yin and yang must be paired to form a junction at the right place in the torso. If there is any movement in the yin, the junction will be altered and result in an entirely different kind of move.
That is why when practicing the Square Form the more robotic look, the better. If one does not maintain stillness while other parts of the body move, the object of doing Square Form is compromised.
This is a drill to tune the neuromuscular control of the student. Most beginners cannot keep their neural signals focused on a narrow segment of their body. The diffusion of the signal creates unintended movements. This is called sloppy movements."
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