“The Way of Classical Tai Chi”

  

INSTINCTIVELY THE WAY

Delineation (Square Form)

Extensive Delineation

“Segmentation is the physical characteristic by which the human body is divided into repeating subunits called segments arranged along a longitudinal axis.”

In the above video, the movements of the Square Form are crisp, resolute, and due to what we see as a "delineation" along segmentation between what is moving and not moving:

Is this a Yin/Yang symbol, a white figure on a gray figure, or a gray figure on a white? Is this what one might call "ambiguous"? Yet, we see a yin-yang "pair" clearly delineated when not caught up in ambiguity. The Classical Tai Chi Square Form has this "delineation" as its primary purpose, and it is our "template" for learning the "Round." This is necessary because most of us move instinctively, one might say "ambiguously."

An instinct is a linked set of behaviors that an organism undergoes unconsciously in response to external conditions. However, the strength of these instincts can diminish in modern life due to limited physical activity and poor movement in adults.

Most do not understand that our bodies have segments. We are naturally segmented but have never learned how to use them. One part of the body moves, and the other part is non-moving. This has to be taught to the conscious mind! 

As Master Stephen Hwa states in his book "Uncovering the Treasure," the subconscious also has its role: "We gradually absorb the essence of the forms and shapes we practice into our subconscious. Eventually, every move we make will instinctively follow the way." He says we will not continue to move instinctively, ambiguously, but that the moves we make will "...instinctively follow the way..."